Porsche has confirmed that the upcoming generation of the 718 Boxster will feature hybrid variants in addition to traditional petrol engines. This decision marks a significant shift in the company’s electric vehicle strategy, which initially aimed for an all-electric lineup for these models.
In late September 2023, Porsche announced that both the 718 Boxster and its sibling, the Cayman, will include petrol engine options for their higher-performance versions. This adjustment comes as part of a broader realignment of Porsche’s electric vehicle plans. The company intends to maintain the appeal of its sports car offerings while adhering to evolving emissions regulations.
Hybrid Technology and Engine Specifications
According to reports from Autocar, Porsche plans to utilize the T-Hybrid system from the 911 lineup for the new 718 models. This choice is influenced by the compact dimensions of the T-Hybrid system, which is 110 mm shorter than the 3.0-litre twin-turbo flat-six engine found in entry-level 911 models. The design allows for easier accommodation within the 718’s tight engine bay.
The current 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine used in existing 718 models does not meet the stringent Euro 7 emissions standards set to take effect at the end of 2026. As a result, incorporating the T-Hybrid drivetrain, which is expected to be slightly detuned from the configuration in the 911 Carrera GTS, becomes a priority for Porsche. The GTS version features a powerful setup that combines a 3.6-litre flat-six engine with an electric turbo and an electric motor, producing an output of 398 kW and 610 Nm of torque.
This system is complemented by a 1.9 kWh lithium-ion battery, allowing the rear-wheel-drive GTS to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds.
Production and Future Availability
While the exact launch date for the new petrol-powered 718 models remains uncertain, it is expected to follow the release of the electric variants. Porsche will likely need to modify the 718’s platform to integrate the new petrol engines and their associated components.
The shift to hybrid technology has caused delays in the production of the electric-only successors to the current Boxster and Cayman models. Reports indicate that these delays are partly due to challenges with battery technology. Unlike many electric vehicles, which feature horizontal battery layouts, the new 718 will employ a vertical battery stack behind the passenger compartment. This design choice aims to replicate the weight balance of a traditional mid-engine sports car.
As it stands, production of Australian-spec 718 Boxster and Cayman models has already concluded, with others set to follow suit in the near future. The ongoing delays are expected to create a gap in global availability between the end of the current generation and the introduction of the new models, which will initially be available with electric drivetrains.
Porsche’s decision to reintroduce petrol variants reflects its commitment to delivering high-performance vehicles while navigating the complexities of modern emissions standards.
