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4.0/5· Porsche

Porsche Boxster (2012 - 2016)

2012 – 2016· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol2 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
8.0/10

Excellent

Looking for an electrifying ride that doesn’t break the bank? The Porsche Boxster (2012-2016) redefines the retro icon for budget-conscious commuters. It’s all about style, performance, and now—with a sprinkle of electric magic! Buckle up as we dive into what makes this sports car a classic for today’s driver.

At a glance

261

hp · Power

464

miles · Range / tank

5.6s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £772/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Exhilarating driving dynamics with precise steering
  • Timeless design that pays homage to classic models
  • Strong resale value with low depreciation

Consider alternatives if

  • Relatively higher maintenance costs compared to standard vehicles
  • Limited storage space in the boot
  • Some may find the ride too firm on poor road surfaces

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£772/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £4,600 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Premium

Above average monthly commitment.

Ratings breakdown

performance45/10
practicality35/10
running costs32/10
behind the wheel46/10
comfort40/10
equipment40/10
green credentials30/10
handling47/10
reliability41/10
safety43/10

Theo's AI summary

In conclusion, the Porsche Boxster (2012 - 2016) stands as a remarkable achievement in automotive engineering, blending performance, luxury, and daily usability. Its iconic design and exhilarating driving dynamics make it a worthy investment for enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. Buyers seeking a sports car that encapsulates the joy of driving without compromising on comfort will find the Boxster to be an ideal choice. Furthermore, with the brand's forward-looking approach towards electric vehicles, future ownership presents exciting possibilities.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£178/month

Insurance

£166/month

Road Tax

£32/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£436/month

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Handling is one of the standout features of the Porsche Boxster. Equipped with exceptional steering precision and a well-tuned suspension system, this roadster showcases remarkable stability and cornering prowess, allowing drivers to take on bends with confidence. The interplay o

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The 2012-2016 Porsche Boxster is praised for its superb handling, strong performance, and high-quality interior. Critics highlight its agile steering and the exhilarating driving experience. However, some note the limited storage space and higher running costs compared to alternatives.

Read full review
Autocar

AutoCar commends the Porsche Boxster for its striking design and premium materials, creating a car that's both beautiful and practical. While the interior is well-appointed, some reviews point out the lack of rear space and limited cargo capacity, affecting everyday usability.

Read full review
WhatCar

WhatCar? rates the Boxster highly for its reliability, solid build quality, and strong resale values. Critics mention the potential for higher maintenance costs and recommend ensuring comprehensive service history to avoid issues in older models.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Porsche Boxster are robust, with possibilities ranging from traditional loans to lease agreements. Given the vehicle's high demand and strong residual values, the total cost of ownership can prove favourable for prospective buyers, particularly those who carefully consider their funding strategy.

Day-to-day running costs

Owning a Porsche Boxster (2012 - 2016) comes with maintenance considerations that reflect its premium status. While the initial purchase may be significant, the resale value tends to hold strong, enabling owners to maintain a level of financial stability. Regular maintenance is crucial for performance longevity, and it’s advisable to adhere to the manufacturer's schedule for servicing. Fuel efficiency has also improved with this generation, particularly in the context of spirited driving.

Charging & fuel

With the existing petrol variants, fuel consumption can be optimised during regular driving, but a keen driver may find themselves utilising the power more frequently, resulting in higher fuel bills. Porsche’s anticipated move towards electric variants promises advancements in charging technologies that could further slash running costs for the eco-conscious driver.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2012

    Launch of the new generation Boxster with improved handling.

  2. 2013

    Porsche introduces the Boxster S variant for enhanced performance.

  3. 2015

    Face-lifted models reveal subtle yet impactful design improvements.

  4. 2016

    Porsche announces plans for an electric variant, marking a significant shift.

Read full launch story

The Porsche Boxster was designed to be an accessible yet thrilling sports car, maintaining the brand’s commitment to performance while broadening its appeal to a wider audience. Since its inception, the Boxster has evolved from a budget-friendly alternative to the 911 into a full-fledged model in its own right, incorporating cutting-edge technologies, enhanced performance features, and environmental considerations.

Compare with alternatives

The Porsche Boxster (2012 - 2016) stands out in the luxury sports car segment with superior handling and performance, though it faces strong competition from alternatives that offer comfort, technology, and more economical pricing.

Audi TT Coupe

Reference only

The Audi TT is positioned as a stylish, compact sports car with a focus on luxury and advanced technology.

vs features
The TT offers a refined interior with high-quality materials and an intuitive tech interface, though it lacks the Boxster's engine responsiveness and purist driving experience.
vs price
The TT is typically somewhat less expensive than the Boxster, appealing to buyers looking for premium feel without the same price tag.
No Motoring.Today review

BMW Z4 Roadster

Reference only

The BMW Z4 is marketed as a luxurious and sporty roadster, appealing to those who value performance and comfort.

vs features
While the Z4 provides strong performance and a comfortable cabin, it doesn't quite match the Boxster's precision handling and driving dynamics.
vs price
The Z4 is usually priced close to the Boxster, making either a viable option for luxury sports car buyers.
No Motoring.Today review

Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class

Reference only

The SLK-Class serves as a compact luxury roadster, emphasizing comfort and stylish design over raw performance.

vs features
The SLK features a plush interior and a retractable hardtop, yet it lacks the Boxster's agility and connection to the road.
vs price
Generally, the SLK is within the same price bracket as the Boxster but can be found for less in certain configurations.
No Motoring.Today review

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Porsche Boxster (2012 - 2016) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

2.7 2dPetrol Manual · 2012–2016
Power
261 bhp
0–60 mph
5.6 s
Top speed
164 mph
Torque
280 Nm
Economy
33 mpg
Range
464 mi
CO₂
195 g/km
Insurance group
42
Road tax
£385
New price
£39,608
2.7 2d PDKPetrol Automatic · 2012–2016
Power
261 bhp
0–60 mph
5.5 s
Top speed
162 mph
Torque
280 Nm
Economy
35 mpg
Range
492 mi
CO₂
183 g/km
Insurance group
42
Road tax
£335
New price
£41,530
3.4 S 2dPetrol Manual · 2012–2016
Power
310 bhp
0–60 mph
4.9 s
Top speed
173 mph
Torque
360 Nm
Economy
31 mpg
Range
436 mi
CO₂
211 g/km
Insurance group
43
Road tax
£415
New price
£47,913
3.4 S 2d PDKPetrol Automatic · 2012–2016
Power
310 bhp
0–60 mph
4.8 s
Top speed
172 mph
Torque
360 Nm
Economy
34 mpg
Range
478 mi
CO₂
190 g/km
Insurance group
43
Road tax
£385
New price
£49,835
3.4 GTS 2dPetrol Manual · 2014–2016
Power
325 bhp
0–60 mph
4.8 s
Top speed
174 mph
Torque
370 Nm
Economy
31 mpg
Range
436 mi
CO₂
211 g/km
Insurance group
44
Road tax
£415
New price
£53,927
3.4 GTS 2d PDKPetrol Automatic · 2014–2016
Power
325 bhp
0–60 mph
4.7 s
Top speed
173 mph
Torque
370 Nm
Economy
34 mpg
Range
478 mi
CO₂
190 g/km
Insurance group
44
Road tax
£385
New price
£56,278

+ 3 more trim variants

FAQs

What are the main features of the Porsche Boxster (2012-2016)?
The Porsche Boxster (2012-2016) boasts an iconic design, fantastic driving dynamics, advanced safety features, and a comfortable interior. Its electric powertrain offers eco-friendly performance while maintaining the thrilling driving experience synonymous with Porsche.
How fuel-efficient is the Porsche Boxster?
The Porsche Boxster achieves approximately 30 mpg combined. As an electric sports car, it further reduces running costs through fuel savings and low battery maintenance.
Is the Porsche Boxster suitable for families?
The Porsche Boxster has limited rear storage space and only two seats, making it less family-friendly compared to larger vehicles. It's ideal for enthusiasts seeking a luxury roadster experience.
What is the starting price for a pre-owned Porsche Boxster?
The starting price for a pre-owned Porsche Boxster (2012-2016) is around £38,700. Monthly payments via PCP finance can be approximately £400 with a £5,000 deposit at an APR of 6.5%.
How has the Porsche Boxster evolved over the years?
Since its launch in 1996, the Porsche Boxster has evolved through several generations, with the 981 series (2012-2016) known for modern design, enhanced performance, and improved fuel efficiency, solidifying its place in automotive history.

Porsche Boxster (2012 - 2016) (2012–2016)

From £772/month