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2006
Porsche Boxster

Starts at:
$45,000
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New 2006 Porsche Boxster
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2dr Roadster
    Starts at
    $45,000
    18 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 6-cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Roadster S
    Starts at
    $54,700
    18 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 6-cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2006 Porsche Boxster 2006 Porsche Boxster

Notable features

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

The good & the bad

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

Expert 2006 Porsche Boxster review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
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.

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.

Available cars near you

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
10 years
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years / 50,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
13 Years / 124,000 miles
Basic
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
111-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.8 / 5
Based on 43 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.4
Interior 4.6
Performance 4.8
Value 4.4
Exterior 4.9
Reliability 4.6

Most recent

  • 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!”
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    7 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 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
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    14 people out of 15 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 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
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 3.0
    5 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • This car is excellent

    Great Porsche, looks and drive like new. Fun car, It has all the right stuff. The interior is all leather and flawless, great navigation with backup camera. Really low Mileage.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    5 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Fantastic & Fun

    The Porsche Boxster S is one of the most reliable and fun cars to drive. It's very close to the performance of the Porsche 911, but at half the price.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Fun car

    Love it!! The only advice I can offer is buy manual transmission, S package! It's a great ride!! Rides the rails like a champ, and a blast to drive!! I get heads turning all day long, only 50K on it, bought it with K 23 in her 5 years ago, black on black guards red seat belts and Chrono package, 19' Michelin P4S tires and upgraded OEM sport rims. Absolute blast to drive with the short throw stick!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Wicked Whip

    One of the best handling cars ever made! The most luggage capacity of any other Roadster. The only negative thing I can say about this car is the price of maintenance, replacing the brakes cost $2,000 Canadian. My wife and I cruised the coast to California, best trip of my life!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Class act, lucky enough to have owned one

    Bought it from a friend and owned it for about five years. Other than regular servicing I only replaced rear springs , water pump and hood push rods. I sold it with 198000 miles on it (yes 198000) and it never let me down and as far as I know it is still running okay to this day. I am now retired and have resorted to something a bit more suitable but I absolutely adored my 2.7 Boxster in dark metallic grey
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Vietnam Veterans Bucket List

    This vehicle is something I’ve always wanted. It completes one thing on my list. At 71 it’s a little difficult to get out of. However I can say I had a Porsche.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 2.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 3.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great sports car

    I wanted a convertible for sunny Hawaii, with great handling, appearance and value. The acceleration of this 6 speed manual transmission is amazing. I can't wait to drive up in the mountains.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Slick and polished

    I test drove this car and was amazed at its responsiveness. Handles beautifully, and is fast without being over the top. It?s true. There is no substitute.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Very Fun Car

    Purschesed this car and couldnt be happier. Very fun to drive and lots of ways to make it your own while maintaining a classic porsche vibe.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Porsche dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2006 Porsche Boxster?

The 2006 Porsche Boxster is available in 2 trim levels:

  • (1 style)
  • S (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2006 Porsche Boxster?

The 2006 Porsche Boxster offers up to 18 MPG in city driving and 26 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2006 Porsche Boxster?

The 2006 Porsche Boxster compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2006 Porsche Boxster reliable?

The 2006 Porsche Boxster has an average reliability rating of 4.6 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2006 Porsche Boxster owners.

Is the 2006 Porsche Boxster a good Convertible?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2006 Porsche Boxster. 95.3% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.8 / 5
Based on 43 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.4
  • Interior: 4.6
  • Performance: 4.8
  • Value: 4.4
  • Exterior: 4.9
  • Reliability: 4.6

Porsche Boxster history

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