Flat-Six Returns to Porsche's 718 Spyder for 2020

Make a great car even better

When Porsche added its legacy '718' naming convention to the Boxster range, expectations were high. As a mid-engined sportscar, with top-down capability, the Boxster has been unrivaled for many years. But the 718 model upgrade also meant a change to turbocharged four-cylinder power, and that made some enthusiasts pine for the good old days of naturally-aspirated powertrains with six-cylinders.  

A road carving machine

The most significant upgrade to the 2020 model year 718 Boxster, is a fantastic new engine option. Reading market demand perfectly, Porsche's product planners decided to reintroduce flat-six power, by virtue of a brand new 4-liter engine. In a world where nearly every rival is turbocharged, this new atmospheric engine gifts the 718 Spyder unrivaled appeal, due to its high rev-ceiling and linear throttle response.  

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It makes all the right sounds

Nestled in the 718 Spyder's rear diffuser are large-diameter exhaust tips. They make a great, undiluted, flat-six sound amazing and also signal the increased performance potential of the 2020 model year car. Power from the 4-liter flat-six engine peaks at 414hp, supported by 309 lb-ft of torque. 

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Slimline lights

The new 718 Spyder also features updated illumination details. Around the rear, its taillamps have a slimmer profile LED light signature, which makes the car's illuminated profile that much more attractive.  

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Safe and stylish

Another absolutely gorgeous styling detail is found on the aft deck area of the new 718 Spyder. A cross-brace mounted LED high-level brake light makes the car that much easier to spot when following it in the rain or adverse weather conditions. 

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Strictly for two

The 718 Spyder is a wonderfully selfish sportscar. As a true roadster, it does not have rear seats, with the engine taking pride of place in the middle of the car. That configuration gifts this Porsche outstanding weight distribution and handling agility.  

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It revs - and then some

Perfectly complementing the new 718 Spyder's more traditional engine configuration, is its cockpit instrumentation. Instead of opting for an overly digital display, Porsche has retained a remnant of analog charm. And the appeal of having a tachometer that only runs red at 8000rpm will always endure - and is only something which is possible with a naturally-aspirated engine.  

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Hot and cold colors work best - blended together

Although Porsche will offer a great diversity of color and trim combinations for the 2020 model year 718 Spyder, this is the only specification you should consider. Keeping it simple and strongly contrasting is a silver body, with red brake calipers and a crimson canvas roof. 

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Looks good and works too

Enhancing grip, cornering confidence and safety is a combination of model-specific tires and huge stoppers. French rubber specialist, Michelin, provide Cup2 specification tires, specifically tailored for the 718 Spyder's weight distribution. And hiding behind those 20-inch alloy wheels, are huge 15-inch brakes, actuated by red calipers, which look great and work a treat too.  

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A symphony of engineering on the road

And this is what the new 718 Spyder is all about: a completely immersive driving experience. With a naturally-aspirated engine and six-speed manual transmission, a driver has no choice but to become a part of the experience. Top speed runs a true 187mph. Priced at $97 640, the six-cylinder 718 Spyder presents great value - due to the rarity of its specification, and guaranteed future value as a collectible car. 

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