2013 Porsche Boxster: Up Close

Porsche's redesigned Boxster is both familiar and different at the same time. The classic low-slung roadster shape carries over to the 2013 model year, but all-new styling introduces a design theme with more creases and sharper edges, particularly along the sides of the car leading to the scalloped intakes and over the rear wheels.

The headlight assemblies have a more vertical shape than before, but they don't dramatically alter the front end. In back, Porsche elegantly integrates the rear spoiler with the taillights.

The Boxster also gets a redesigned interior that follows in the footsteps of other recent Porsches by adopting upscale materials befitting the car’s premium price. (The new Boxster starts at $49,500 plus destination.) The padded dashboard looks good, and a slimmer version of Porsche's button-centric center console separates the bucket seats.

Despite being Porsche's most affordable model, the Boxster and the related Cayman are the brand's smallest sellers. The Boxster's updates for 2013 keep the car current without losing its identity. The true test, though, will be how well it drives; the current Boxster is one of the great-handling sports cars available today.

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