Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 2020: Ultimate Open-Top Review

The 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 marks a triumphant return to the brand’s heritage of naturally aspirated flat-six engines, infusing the mid-engine roadster with exhilarating power and refined dynamics. This model swaps the turbocharged flat-fours of lesser 718 variants for a high-revving 4.0-liter boxer six-cylinder that produces between 394 and 400 horsepower, paired with either a slick six-speed manual or the rapid PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Engine and Performance: A Symphony of Revs and Power

At the heart of the GTS 4.0 lies a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine, revving freely to 7,800 rpm and delivering peak power of 400 hp at 7,000 rpm and 430 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm in PDK guise. This powertrain responds instantly to throttle inputs, pulling cleanly from low revs while unleashing a characteristic Porsche snarl under hard acceleration. Reviewers praise its tractable nature on the road, where it transitions seamlessly from gentle cruising to ferocious sprints, with 0-62 mph times of exactly 4.0 seconds in the PDK version—half a second quicker than the manual.

Top speed reaches 179 mph, and the engine’s linear power delivery makes it ideal for both track days and spirited backroad drives. Unlike the coarser-sounding turbo fours in base models, this flat-six evokes the golden era of Porsche sports cars, with a soundtrack that electrifies from idle to redline. The PDK transmission enhances this with Launch Control and a Sport Response button, enabling sub-four-second acceleration and smoother high-speed cruising at lower revs—2,400 rpm in seventh gear on motorways versus 2,800 rpm in the manual’s sixth.

Data compiled from multiple tests shows the PDK’s edge in outright performance metrics.

Chassis Dynamics: Precision Engineering Meets Playful Handling

Porsche’s chassis tuning elevates the Boxster GTS 4.0 to benchmark status. The mid-engine layout ensures near-perfect balance, allowing the car to carve through corners with laser-like precision and stability. Firm yet communicative steering provides instant feedback, reacting to the smallest inputs while maintaining composure at high speeds.

Suspension borrowed from the track-focused GT4 includes adaptive dampers in Sport Chrono package, offering modes from compliant Normal for daily drives to razor-sharp settings for twisty roads. Tires like Pirelli P Zeros grip tenaciously, enabling slot-car-like tracking even on imperfect surfaces, with playful oversteer available on demand without feeling unpredictable. On public roads, it remains fluid and organic, translating track prowess into real-world joy—ideal for mountain passes or coastal routes.

• Balanced weight distribution: 47:53 front-to-rear for neutral handling.
• Sport-tuned suspension: Reduces body roll while preserving ride comfort.
• Braking prowess: Massive discs with steel or optional carbon-ceramic provide fade-free stopping power.
• Drive modes: Normal, Sport, Sport Plus, and Wet for versatile conditions.

Design and Aerodynamics: Timeless Style with Functional Flair

Visually, the GTS 4.0 distinguishes itself with aggressive styling cues: quad exhausts, blacked-out trim, 20-inch wheels, and a subtle front splitter. The fabric roof deploys electrically in 10 seconds up to 31 mph, folding neatly to reveal open-air thrills without compromising structural rigidity. Aerodynamic elements like active rear spoiler and optimized underbody enhance high-speed stability.

Dimensions remain compact—157.2 inches long with a 97.8-inch wheelbase—making it nimble in traffic yet planted at speed. Boot space totals 270 liters (150L front, 120L rear), sufficient for weekend getaways but limited for longer trips.

Interior and Technology: Driver-Focused Simplicity

The cabin prioritizes the driving experience with an analogue instrument cluster—physical dials preferred by purists over fully digital setups in newer Porsches. Alcantara and leather trim the GTS-specific seats, which offer excellent support during aggressive maneuvers. Ergonomics shine: the driving position is near-perfect, with controls falling readily to hand.

A 7-inch touchscreen handles infotainment with Apple CarPlay, navigation, and Bose audio options. Standard safety includes adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring, and parking sensors. While not the most modern interior, its simplicity avoids distraction, focusing attention on the road.

Daily Usability: Surprisingly Refined Roadster

Despite its performance credentials, the Boxster GTS 4.0 excels as a daily driver. In Normal mode, the engine idles quietly, and the ride smooths over urban potholes. PDK eases city traffic with unobtrusive shifts, while the manual demands more involvement but rewards skilled drivers. Fuel economy hits 28 mpg combined for PDK, respectable for its output.

On motorways, it cruises relaxedly, wind noise minimal with the roof up. Overtaking requires planning due to the high-revving nature—best above 3,000 rpm—but throttle response is telepathic. It’s a car that maintains sports car excitement even in sedate conditions.

Pricing and Rivals: Premium Value in the Sports Car Segment

Starting around $90,000-$100,000, fully optioned examples exceed $117,000. Rivals like the Chevrolet Corvette, Alpine A110, or Lotus Emira offer competition, but none match the GTS 4.0’s blend of flat-six character, open-top freedom, and Porsche badge prestige.

Track Capabilities: Born for the Circuit

On circuits like Estoril, the GTS 4.0 shines with GT4-derived components, lapping with poise and speed. The manual gearbox suits track purists, demanding heel-toe precision, while PDK offers lightning shifts. It’s accessible yet rewarding for skilled drivers.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Exhilarating flat-six engine, superb handling, versatile transmission choices, open-top joy.
• Cons: Limited storage, firm ride in Sport modes, high price with options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 manual or automatic?

Available with a six-speed manual or seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic.

How does the GTS 4.0 engine differ from base 718 models?

It features a larger 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six versus turbo flat-fours, offering superior sound and response.

Is it comfortable for daily driving?

Yes, with adjustable modes providing a compliant ride and quiet cruising.

What’s the fuel economy?

Around 28 mpg combined for PDK; slightly less for manual.

Can the roof operate at speed?

Up to 31 mph, folding in 10 seconds.

Final Verdict: A Modern Classic

The 2020 Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 revives the soul of Porsche roadsters with its flat-six purity, making it one of the finest convertible sports cars available. It balances track dominance, road exhilaration, and surprising usability, justifying its premium positioning for enthusiasts.