The Detroit Motor Show earlier in January may have the advantage of being the first motor show in this year’s calendar, but it may well have been the coldest too.  Chilly weather outside drove show-goers indoors but this did not deter motoring marques from attending and revealing some exciting new models to the world.  Whilst the American motor producers may not be having their best years in recent times, the European manufacturers were there in force, displaying some enthralling new cars.  

Of note was Porsche’s unveiling of the 2012 911 Carrera Cabriolet.  Even more beguiling is the news that has come from Porsche even since the end of the show.  They have wasted no time and are not waiting for the next event in the round of Motor Shows to debut their next new releases, the new Boxster and Boxster S.   

A beautiful new svelte body cloaks the Boxster.  Looking wonderfully summery in both Gold and Bronze painted bodies in Porsche’s press release, the new Boxsters’ looks are completely ‘this-season’ and yet still offer a commanding road presence.   The lightweight yet imposing figure really does weigh less than its predecessor.  This is all due to the redesigned chassis, achieving more with less.  It actually has a longer wheelbase, and yet a wider beam.  The mid-engine two-seater also enjoys larger wheels and a new electromechanical power steering system.  Adding all of these together and you can see why Porsche are proud of their improved driving and handling dynamics.

Of course, these days any new model has to present particulars of enhanced fuel efficiency to ensure reduced emission levels.  A fifteen percent enhancement in fuel efficiency is the claim of these new releases.  Furthermore, electrical system recuperation, thermal management and start/stop function add to its environmental friendliness.

Comment on the new Boxster has already started and it is all positive.    It is seen as handsome although also not without a certain feminine appeal.   The new convertible has shorter front and rear overhangs, and the windscreen has also inched forwards.  The redesigned headlamps may not be the favourite of Porsche purists who favour the traditional oval, but they work together with the new body features.  These include slimmed air intakes and the blending of the rear spoiler into the rear lights.

 A fully automated electric soft-top replaces the previous convertible top compartment lid.  This alone means there is more space inside.  Combined with the larger, smarter use of body space, there will be a lot more room for occupants.  The improved passenger dynamics are also enhanced by the revised raked central console and some stunning-looking interior finishing.  

The Boxster and Boxster S are powered by straight six cylinder 2.7 and 3.4 litre engines with direct fuel injection.  Delivering 265 bhp and 315 bhp correspondingly, their engines are mounted behind the seats.  For the Boxster S, this represents an increase of 5 bhp.  The six-speed manual transmission remains, with an optional seven-speed PDK for improved fuel consumption and acceleration.

In releasing the performance statistics for the cars, Porsche has revealed the Boxster reaches 60 mph in 5.4 seconds with the Boxster S taking just 4.7 seconds.  Uninterrupted gear changes to the power flow make this possible.

Some truly exciting innovations include the Sport Chrono Package, available as an option, featuring dynamic transmission mounts for the first time ever.  Another new feature to look out for is the Porsche Torque Vectoring, known by its acronym of PTV, offers a mechanical rear axle differential lock.

Summer just can’t wait for these two new beauties. For those who cannot wait, try one of our own Porsche beauties.

The latest gift from the team at Porsche AG is a stunning video of their stand at this year’s Autosport International event.  Held every year since 1991, this exhibition is one Motor Show that you can really relate to.  Everything that you see has earned its racing stripes, and a great many will be familiar to petrolheads whether you have seen them in the flesh or on screen. 

This year’s show was no exception.  The 2012 event was held in Birmingham.  It has become regarded as the preview to the forthcoming motorsport season.  Classic race cars though, as well as the latest speed machines, were on view. 

There is no better way to see the pedigree of Porsche’s racing heritage.  Since much of the development of any Porsche road car happens through their racing team, this is a wonderful window to look through and see their marquee in action.  It has become crucial for Porsche to present their new models at the show due to the intense link between race track prowess and new products. 

Months of planning and preparation go into ensuring readiness for the show.  From the show brief, they decide on which cars they will promote to the public.  

At the forefront of their exhibit are their flagship cars, the 911 GT3 Cup entrants.  The new 911 Carrera S road car is thus a worthy descendant of the racing heritage and also earned its place on show, displaying its horsepower to the full. The relationship between the 918 RSR and 918 Spyder is therefore also of interest. For the 918 RSR, this was its swansong before it takes up its place in the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. 

The Porsche Experience Centre, located at Silverstone, was also showcased at the show.  Since visitors to the Porsche stand may all have some degree of interest in getting behind the wheel of a racing Porsche, the entry levels and details of how to do so are freely dispensed. 

This really is a great opportunity to get into the driving seat of a Porsche. That and hiring one of our Porsches of course!