2006 Porsche Boxster

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$45,000

starting MSRP

2006 Porsche Boxster

Key specs

Base trim shown

Convertible

Body style

2

Seating capacity

171.6” x 51.0”

Dimensions

Rear-wheel drive

Drivetrain

Overview

The good:

  • Handling and control
  • Performance, especially in Boxster S
  • Braking response
  • Pedigree
  • Overall driving pleasure

The bad:

  • Top-up visibility
  • Rough ride on harsh pavement
  • Price, when options are chosen

2 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2006 Porsche Boxster trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best Convertibles for 2023

Notable features

  • Redesigned for 2005
  • 240- or 280-hp engine
  • Manual or automatic
  • Head-protection airbags

2006 Porsche Boxster review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
In January 2005, Porsche’s lower-priced mid-engine sports car emerged in redesigned form. Both the regular Boxster and the higher-performance Boxster S got major styling revisions and handling enhancements. The Boxster became the first roadster with head-protection airbags, which deploy from the side-window rails.

Both of the Boxster’s engines were unchanged in size but delivered significant power boosts. The regular Boxster’s 2.7-liter flat-six-cylinder jumped from 225 to 240 horsepower. The 3.2-liter in the Boxster S is the most powerful engine ever offered in the model line; it generates 280 hp. According to Porsche, the Boxster can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, versus 5.2 seconds for the Boxster S.

Variable-ratio power steering was new for 2005, and its track width increased. By eliminating the spare tire, cargo space grew slightly.

For 2006, the passenger seat gets weight sensors that disable the front airbags when a child-safety seat is detected. Ten-spoke, 19-inch Carrera Sport wheels, a tire-pressure-monitoring system and an electronic logbook are newly optional.

Rivals include the Audi TT, BMW Z4, Honda S2000 and Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class.

Exterior
The front and side air intakes were enlarged for 2005. The headlights and taillamps were new, and the side windows were enlarged.

Alloy wheels on the Boxster S hold 18-inch tires, while the base model gets 17-inch wheels. Nineteen-inch wheels are optional. The Boxster S has a firmer sport suspension.

Interior
Two occupants enjoy leather-upholstered body-hugging bucket seats. The driver faces a trio of gauges in a hooded cluster. Seat heaters, sport seats, Bose surround sound, Park Assist and a navigation system are available. Cargo compartments at both ends offer a total of 9.9 cubic feet of space.

Under the Hood
The base Boxster holds a 2.7-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder that develops 240 hp. The engine is mounted behind the seats but ahead of the rear axle. A five-speed-manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed manual is available.

In the Boxster S, a 3.2-liter six-cylinder makes 280 hp and works with a standard six-speed-manual gearbox. Either engine can use Porsche’s Tiptronic S five-speed-automatic transmission, which incorporates steering-wheel buttons for manual gear selection.

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes, side-impact and head-protection airbags and the Porsche Stability Management electronic stability system are standard.

Driving Impressions
Few automobiles offer as much all-around driving enjoyment as the Boxster, and the 2005 model raised that bar even higher. With quick, precise control and racetrack-quality moves, the Boxster is eager to dash ahead and keeps its tires planted firmly on the pavement.

While previous-generation Boxsters weren’t the quickest sports cars, the current models are substantially swifter. Significant pavement imperfections can result in a rough ride in the Boxster S. The surefooted and positive Boxster follows commands with precision.

Still, the base model may be more appealing. It’s less raucous and delivers a satisfying ride without losing much enjoyment. The base model’s five-speed manual shifts a little easier than the Boxster S’s six-speed manual, but both clutches behave admirably. The Tiptronic S automatic transmission operates with excellence.

Limited cargo space has been a drawback, but the current version has a bit more room. Top-up visibility is troublesome. The seats are snug but surprisingly comfortable.

Consumer reviews

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.4
  • Interior 4.6
  • Performance 4.8
  • Value 4.4
  • Exterior 4.9
  • Reliability 4.6

Most recent consumer reviews

5.0

2006 Boxster Has It All!

I have owned old and new 911’s, including a 2004 911 Turbo, and my current 2006 Boxster Base with the silky smooth 5 speed manual has been the most fun to drive. Small, light, nimble, great exhaust note, etc. It’s just a well-refined, well-engineered and perfectly balanced roadster. I love it. My dad once said “The Germans will always be the world’s best toy makers, and he was right!”

5.0

Best car I ever had, Corvette notwithstanding

It is unreal to drive, throaty dual exhaust growl...cornering is exhilirating...top down summer fun....get the 5spd manual what a smooth gearbox...paint is superb...fit and finish exemplary...no squeaks or rattles like my Vette

4.0

Purchased an extended warranty going to need

2006 boxer S transmission acting funny tip Tronic I would prefer manual transmission on this model however have automatic once corrected I think I can have a better eval of car

See all 43 consumer reviews

Warranty

New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by Porsche
New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
48 months/50,000 miles
Corrosion
120 months/unlimited distance
Powertrain
48 months/50,000 miles
Roadside assistance
48 months/50,000 miles
Certified Pre-Owned program benefits
Maximum age/mileage
13 Years/124,000 miles
Basic warranty terms
2 years/unlimited miles after new-car limited warranty expires or from the date of sale if the new vehicle limited warranty has expired
Powertrain
2 years/unlimited miles after new-car limited warranty expires or from the date of sale if the new vehicle limited warranty has expired
Dealer certification required
111-point inspection
Roadside assistance
Yes
View all cpo program details

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

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