Porsche Boxster Third Generation (2012-2016)
Porsche presented the third generation Porsche Boxster on 6 March 2012 at the Geneva Motor Show. Known as the 981-generation, the new Boxster had a more muscular appearance compared to the second generation model.
Porsche Boxster Third Generation
Thanks to styling makeover with shorter body overhangs, a windscreen moved much further forwards, flatter silhouette and expressive edges, the roadster’s road appearance was much more muscular. The interior design offered more space, and reflected the new Porsche line with the elevated centre console, which ensured optimised ergonomic design in all models starting from the Carrera GT. The interior was covered by the completely newly designed, fully electric convertible top.
The open two-seater was launched with a completely new lightweight body and a fully revamped chassis. A considerably reduced weight, longer wheelbase, wider track and larger wheels significantly increased the driving dynamics of the mid-engine sports car, supported by the new electromechanical power steering. This ensured unadulterated driving fun with the roadster.
Six-cylinder Engines
The new Boxster models offered increased performance, and were also up to 15 percent more economical in terms of their fuel consumption. The Boxster and Boxster S models were powered by six-cylinder boxer engines with direct fuel injection. The engine efficiency was further increased by vehicle electrical system recuperation, thermal management and auto start-stop function.
The new power unit in the standard model delivered 195 kW (265 PS) from a displacement of 2.7 litres. The Boxster S now had a power output of 232 kW (315 PS). As from April 2014, Boxster GTS was available with 243 kW (330 PS). The top-of-the-range was the Boxster Spyder.
The models were equipped as standard with a manual six-speed transmission. The 7-speed PDK transmission was optionally available. In order to further increase the driving dynamics, Porsche offered the Sport Chrono package as an option for the Boxster. This package included dynamic transmission mounts for the first time. Also new for the Boxster was Porsche Torque Vectoring PTV with mechanical rear differential lock.
Third generation Boxster was replaced by the fourth generation, known as the 982 generation, in 2016. A total of 54,374 units of the third generation Boxster models were built.


You may also like
Latest Additions
- Cool Colour Options for the 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S
Porsche offers some really cool colour options for the 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S. The range of colours is divided into the four colour worlds - 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR Specs
Porsche's successful racer, the GT3 RSR received extensive modifications for the 2011. Here are the specs of the 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR - What is the ehPDCC System?
Do you know what is the ehPDCC system? It is Porsche's active electro-hydraulic roll stabilisation system introduced in 2025 - Lugano Blue 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S
What do you think of the colour blue? Check these photos of the Lugano Blue 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S. Works pretty well, doesn't it - Peek Inside – 2026 Porsche 911 Spirit 70 Interior
The Porsche 911 Spirit 70 is a limited edition model. Let's peek inside what the Porsche 911 Spirit 70 interior looks like - 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera S – 10 Fast Facts
The 911 Carrera S closes the gap between the Carrera and the Carrera GTS. Here are 10 fast facts about the 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera S - 2026 Porsche 911 GT3 90 F. A. Porsche
F. A. Porsche would have celebrated his 90th birthday in 2025. To honour this milestone, Porsche created the 911 GT3 90 F. A. Porsche - Take a Look – 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S Exterior
In the 992.2-generation 911 Turbo S, the Turbo-exclusive contrast tone Turbonite complement the traditional Turbo features - Weissach Package for the 911 GT3 (992.2)
Porsche offers various equipment packages for the 911 GT3. These include the Weissach Package, available for the first time on the GT3 - 1998 Porsche Boxster Features and Options List
Here is a list of features and option of the first generation Porsche Boxster as published on the Porsche USA 1998 press kit
