Next year is shaping up to be the year of the Boxster. Not only will Porsche begin testing three electric prototypes of the drop-top, but an all-new car is due to make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

And while this mule appears very similar to the outgoing car, every panel and the fabric roof are completely new. And, in typical Porsche style, while the new car may bear a strong resemblance to the one it replaces, the third gen car will be quite significantly different under the skin.

For a start, the firm is working hard to cut its carbon dioxide emissions so the Boxster will be lighter than the car it replaces thanks to the use of more aluminium. But the biggest chance it likely to come with the engines.

While the Boxster S’ direct injection 3.4-litre flat six is likely to be carried over with minimal changes, the older, 255bhp 2.9-litre non-direct injection unit in the standard car is likely to be downsized to a turbocharged four cylinder which produces around 270bhp but, crucially, less emissions.

Emphasis will also be placed on the firm’s seven-speed PDK gearbox which allows faster shifts than a manual, but also contributes to better fuel economy because of the better spread of ratios.

The Boxster will be followed by the all-new Cayman later in the year.

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