Porsche 718 Boxster GTS

FIRST UK DRIVE Entry-level roadster gets GTS treatment. It’s pricey, but great to drive.

- Richard Ingram

THE familiar GTS badge has become synonymous with some of the best driving Porsche models in recent years. But while the 911 and Cayman models have stolen much of the limelight, is the Boxster GTS a hidden gem?

The manufacturer’s entry-level droptop isn’t exactly a prime candidate for receiving the sportier GTS treatment, but it’s a process that is gradually consuming the entire Porsche model range. We first drove the new roadster in Spain towards the end of last year (Issue 1,502), but now we’ve got to try it on UK roads.

Like all 718 models, the Boxster GTS now uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Yes, the unit sounds a bit flat compared with the old car’s sonorous six-cylinder, but objectively, this motor is a marvel. It pulls strongly from low revs and linked to the slick six-speed manual gearbox (a PDK automatic is available) it feels flexible and quick.

Forgiving