Chris Harris Puts 718 Boxster to the Test: Classic Clips
Chris Harris wrings out four-cylinder 718. But does he like it?
If you’re unfamiliar with Chris Harris, you might wonder why you should care about his opinion on the new 718 Boxster. And while it’s not feasible to list his full resume here, suffice it to say that Harris is one of the best automotive journalists out there. And easily one of the best drivers among them, for sure.
Harris currently hosts Chris Harris on Cars, his own YouTube channel, and Top Gear. He put together a video for the latter documenting his first drive of the new, four-cylinder powered 718 Boxster. And while we only get a full one minute of the segment for free, his thoughts are noteworthy nonetheless.
So far, some have praised the 718’s switch to the smaller, turbocharged engine, while others have lamented it. Despite the jump in power, many understandably miss the iconic flat-six. The move from larger, naturally aspirated engines to smaller, forced induction ones is an industry-wide trend, of course. But that doesn’t mean we have to like it.
By all accounts, however, (including Harris’), the 718 is a faster and maybe better car than it’s predecessor. The throttle response is fantastic for a turbo engine. The chassis is as well sorted as it ever was. But when Porsche removed the flat-six from the Boxster’s mid-ship flanks, it also removed its soul.
There’s no more howling, wailing, and other delicious noises coming from the Boxster’s tailpipes. And for Harris, that means the emotion evoked by the original car is completely gone. While many will undoubtedly and happily trade that noise for performance, true enthusiasts will side with Harris.
More performance and greater efficiency are never a bad thing, but are they worth trading your soul for?
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