Inside Story: 2009 Porsche Boxster PDK

September 24, 2009

2009 Porsche Boxster PDK. Click image to enlarge

The centre console lid retention strap appears to have been lengthened for access ease. Housed within is the optional Universal Audio Interface, a $130 audio jack point that Hyundai Accents throw in gratis. This appears to delete the powerpoint normally found in this cavity. Behind the seatbacks is a centre-mount cavity, with sliding door protection, and two open cubbies suitable for sunglass cases. Coat hanger hooks are still very much in existence, at the top of the seatbacks.

2009 Porsche Boxster PDK. Click image to enlarge

The dual dash-mount swing-out cupholders still take the nod for cool factor, though this evaluation journey found them lacking for the usual 600-ml fare of roadside convenience. I suggest modifying the system into a spring-loaded tray, with similar bottom hangers to steady the bevvie, though methinks the configuration has more to do with the real estate absorbed by airbag deployment.

The Overhead

Little confusion exists for releasing/locking the three-layer power ragtop, which is fully engaged in up or down mode under 10 seconds. A Homelink transmitter array is included, while the mirror is a manual day/nighter. Visors get back-lit vanity mirrors. They are not positionable for side block, which the top takes care of admirably.

Seat Treat

2009 Porsche Boxster PDK. Click image to enlarge

A little manual, a little power: the driver and passenger seat enjoy power recline, with fore/aft and height controlled by levers and oomph. Two-step heat is included.

Cargo Embargo

What better think describes two trunks? Both boots are equipped with escape handles, and surprising ability to swallow suitcases, duffles, and Calgary bargoons. Additional cubbies up front reveal the protective storage bag for the rear wind deflector, which is flanked by two removable snap-fit diffusers in the roll bar.

Spare Care

An inflation/tire sealant kit is found behind the lower panel in the front boot. Porsche provides roadside assistance for the first four years or 80,000 kilometres of ownership, whichever comes first.

The Mill

Somewhere beneath the rear boot is a 2.9-litre flat-six, dispensing 255 horsepower. Other than oil and coolant fill, tinker-savvy owners can access the battery in the front boot, top off wiper fluid, and check the brake fluid. Transport Canada states a city consumption rating of 10.2 L/100 km, and a highway cycle of 6.7 L/100 kilometres. With constant elevation changes, PDK indulgences, and higher-than-the-wimpy-TC-test-cycle speeds, the Boxster PDK returned a stunning 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres combined consumption cycle over 2,600 kilometres.

The Verdict

In an automotive world that continues to be beaten with EV and hybrid blunt objects, one has to appreciate the frugality that can occur by simply addressing the drivetrain. Rest assured; the PDK Boxster was driven the way a Porsche should be driven, and still returned 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres. The Tiptronic is now officially a member of the hall of fame that contains adding machines and eight-tracks. The PDK is the best $4,660 option tick in recent memory. As for Boxster practical magic? It needs a better cupholder, and throw in the MP3 jack for free. That’s it.

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