SCOOP: Porsche Continues Testing of All-New 2012 Boxster

Once again, our spy photographers have snagged the brand new iteration of Porsche's Boxster model during testing in Germany.

The prototype version seen here continues to be under camouflage, though to a lesser extent than previous. According to our spies, the new model appeared to be slightly longer and wider than the current version, something that should benefit the roadster's interior space.

As with most Porsches, the exterior looks of the new Boxster will be a subtle evolution over the previous model. However, bigger changes are expected in the interior that will most likely take styling cues from the Panamera.

Underneath the sheetmetal, the Boxster's replacement will share a variety of parts with the 911.

It is expected that engineers will focus on weight reduction as one way to improve the mid-engine sport car's dynamics while it is also believed that Boxster will make use of the new aerodynamic systems like the front air intake mechanisms that is being prepared for the next 911.

The most radical change may very well concern the engine lineup as Porsche is said to be considering the addition of a high-output, turbocharged four-cylinder engine to the Boxster range. This move could help the company offset larger vehicles like the Cayenne and reduce fleet average CO2 emissions.

Either way, the flat six engines are likely to continue to be offered in the new Boxster, albeit further improved in terms of power and fuel efficiency.

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VIDEO: 2012 Porsche Boxster Spied During Winter Testing

Porsche engineers were caught on film recently testing the next generation of the Boxster roadster that is due to be revealed at a major international motor show sometime next year.

Just like the upcoming successor to today's 911 (see the spy shots here), the Boxster prototype looks no different from the current model, but that shouldn't come to as a surprise to Porschephiles that are used to the company's evolutionary approach to design.

The new Boxster will share many parts with the next 911 while the German engineers will most likely try to further reduce the car's weight to improve handling as well as to boost fuel efficiency.

The engine line-up and transmissions including a six-speed manual and seven-speed dual clutch PDK will be carried over with minor changes from the current model.

There have been rumors circulating around the net that Porsche may also introduce a smaller displacement yet powerful four-cylinder engine, however, this has not been confirmed.

Sales of the next generation Boxster will most likely start towards the end of 2011 or early 2012.

Video: Youtube / AMS

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VIDEO: 2012 Porsche 911 Coupe and Convertible Spied Winter Testing

Porsche is continuing to work hard on the development of its next-generation 911 sports car that carries the internal code name '991'. Filmed here during cold weather testing in Sweden, the new 911 will be offered in both coupe and convertible forms and with a variety of powertrains.

The spy video (and scoop shots) suggest that the 2012 model year (for North American markets) 911 will be slightly longer and wider but with a lower roofline than the current model. And even though Porsche insiders insist that almost every body panel will be new, well, it's a 911 so don't expect to see something drastically different in terms of styling.

Porsche's engineers, however, have a few new tricks up their sleeves including an extensive aerodynamic package with an active front spoiler and variable air-intakes, new exotic and lightweight materials that will help the 911 shed a few pounds (just like the new Cayenne SUV) and updated engines and powertrains.

Look for the new generation of Porsche 911s to start making their appearance from early 2011 and onwards.

Via: Youtube / AMS

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Porsche Answers a Question Nobody Asked with its 4-Door, Panamera Convertible

Bad news for people with eyes or small children: Porsche is apparently looking to make a drop-top of its humpback Panamera saloon. Usually that wouldn't be terrible, except for the fact that Stuttgart seems intent on retaining the car's four doors.

Before anyone starts screaming structural bloody murder, technically it IS possible.

According to Autocar, "Advances in high-strength steel and tailored blanks (sections of steel in varying thicknesses) have reduced costs to a point where they are now being considered as part of new-model plans by many car makers."

A word on technology and its application: just because it's possible, doesn't mean it's a good idea. Think Apple's iPad, but with four doors and a Porsche logo. Vent your disgust in the comments section below.

- By Phil Alex

Via: Autoblog.com & Autocar

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First Official Photos of 2011 Porsche Cayenne?

Adding to the suspense surrounding the reveal of the new 2011 Porsche Cayenne, the folks from "Lemagauto" sent us these two photos of the SUV model supposedly scanned from Thursday's edition of French car magazine, "L'Auto Journal". We can't validate their authenticity, but the Cayennes featured appear to be in line with the prototype models we've seen in numerous scoop photographs over the past few months.

The next generation of the Cayenne will have its world premiere alongside its Volkswagen counterpart, the new Touareg, at the Geneva Motor Show on March 2, and go on sale later this year.

Thanks for the pics Florent / Lemagauto!

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