Is the Porsche 718 Boxster GTS a Good Car? 5 Pros, 2 Cons

A product of decades of continuous development and improvement, the most recent generation of the Porsche 718 Boxster stands as the most advanced and refined iteration yet of Porsche’s iconic mid-engine sports car. It also marks the end of the line for the Boxster roadster and its Cayman coupe stablemate, at least for now — an all-electric replacement has been put on hold as ongoing changes in tariffs and the elimination of the federal electric-vehicle tax credit by the Trump administration have forced carmakers to reevaluate their EV plans.

Related: 2024 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 Review: Driving Distillate

For now, it is uncertain whether the next iteration of the 718 will be powered by electricity or gasoline (or even if it’s coming at all). But if you’re looking for an opportunity to enjoy the outgoing 718’s pinpoint handling and enjoyable driving experience, act fast: The Porsche website indicates some remaining 2025 models may still be on dealer lots, but production has already come to an end.

Cars.com West Coast Editor Conner Golden had a chance to thoroughly evaluate a 2024 718 Boxster in its top GTS trim and found the swan-song model to still be one of the most lively and entertaining sports cars available at any price. Tap the link above to read his expert review, or read on for a quicker look at five things we like about the 2024 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS and two things we do not.

What Do We Like About the 2024 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS?

1. Pure Driving Fun

There’s nothing that compares to the feel of a sports car combining relatively light weight, a balanced chassis and a relatively straightforward design that emphasizes the driving experience without relying entirely on electronic aids. The 718 Boxster excels at delivering precise yet predictable handling, aided by nicely weighted electric steering and excellent brake response and feel. The result is a car that’s a joy to drive whether you’re on a twisty mountain road or just running errands around town.

2. Mid-Engine Marvel

One of the best water-cooled six-cylinder engines ever to come out of Porsche’s factories, the Boxster’s 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six-cylinder is good for 394 horsepower, delivered while accompanied by a delightful mechanical song all the way to its lofty 7,800 rpm redline. Paired with either a smooth-shifting PDK seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual for the purists, power delivery is smooth and linear throughout the rev range.

3. Quick on the Uptake

When equipped with the dual-clutch automatic, Porsche says the Boxster accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and a whisker longer with the six-speed manual. While perhaps not as whiplash-inducing as some of today’s fastest performance cars, that’s still mighty quick, and its smooth power delivery makes for drama-free highway merges and effortless passing.

4. Daily Drivability

When left in Normal mode and with the active exhaust on its quietest, most socially acceptable setting, the Boxster is a docile and civilized cruiser whether noodling around town or out on the highway. Dropping the top takes up most of the Cayman’s cabin storage area behind the seats,  making the coupe a more practical choice for long-distance travel. But a trunk in back along with a small frunk up front provide enough storage room to make the Boxster usable for a weekend away for two.

5. Stealth Fighter

Aside from small GTS 4.0 badges on its flanks, there’s nothing particularly attention-getting about the Boxster’s appearance, with no big wings, scoops or loud graphics to make it stand out. That goes double for examples like our especially inconspicuous white test car, which barely drew any attention from passersby. Some buyers may consider that a bonus, especially those who prefer not to discuss their car every time they stop for gas.

More From Cars.com:

• 2025 Porsche 911 Gives One of Its Hottest Trims a Hybrid System
• Porsche Fills Out Performance 2025 911 Lineup With GT3 and GT3 Touring Package
• Three New 2025 Porsche Taycan Trims Include Return of Sport Turismo Wagon
• 2025 Porsche Cayenne: More Standard Equipment, Starts at $86,695
• Shop for a 2024 Porsche 718 Boxster

What Do We Dislike About the 2024 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS?

1. Bit of a Din

As usable as the Boxster is for daily driving, long-distance highway cruising is not its strongest suit. Opting for the GTS adds to that with a stiffer suspension and somewhat louder cabin, which is exacerbated by choosing the droptop Boxster over the Cayman with its steel roof. Shorter highway trips are no big deal, but the added din and firm ride can be fatiguing on longer high-speed journeys.

2. So Long, Old Friend

Regardless of what, if anything, replaces the outgoing 718 Boxster and Cayman, we’re sorry to see them go. There’s nothing else in the $100,000 or so price range that comes close to the Porsche’s pure driving experience and grin-inducing yet well-rounded performance.

Related Video:

Cars.com’s Editorial department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In line with Cars.com’s long-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don’t accept gifts or free trips from automakers. The Editorial department is independent of Cars.com’s advertising, sales and sponsored content departments.