New Porsche Boxster announced

The new Porsche Boxster arrives in the UK this spring priced from £37,589, with Boxster S models starting at £45,384.

In an attempt to further improve the Boxster's driving dynamics, the new model is lighter and has a longer wheelbase, wider track and larger wheels. It is also 15 per cent more fuel efficient.

From the outside, the 2012 Porsche Boxster features shorter overhangs, a forward-shifted windscreen, more pronounced edges and a flatter profile. There is also a new electric folding fabric roof that does without a compartment lid. Occupants get a more spacious interior, complete with Carrera GT supercar-inspired centre console.

Both Boxster and Boxster S derivatives feature direct petrol injection flat-six-cylinder engines also fitted with start/stop.

The standard Boxster uses a 2.7-litre unit that produces 265bhp - 10bhp more than its larger capacity predecessor. The more powerful Boxster S uses a 3.4-litre flat-six engine producing 315bhp - up 5bhp. Both models come with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, with Porsche's seven-speed dual-clutch Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) gearbox available as an option.

The Boxster achieves its best fuel consumption and acceleration performance when fitted with PDK.

The Porsche Boxster with PDK returns 36.7mpg and can sprint from 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds. The Boxster S is capable of 35.3mpg and can cover the 0-62mph sprint in 5.0 seconds.

For owners looking to sharpen the handling and performance of the Boxster, both models are available with the Sport Chrono Package.

On sale in the UK from April 28th 2012, the new Porsche Boxster has an Alcantara interior, 18-inch alloy wheels, Auto stop/start with sports mode, remote control hood operation, audio CD with 7-inch touch screen, MP3 connectivity and a three year warranty.

The Boxster S adds larger 19-inch alloy wheels, part leather interior and Bi-xenon headlights. All Boxster customers will also receive a free driving course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

For more information visit www.porsche.com/uk

To view the full Porsche range visit CarBuyer's Porsche reviews page.