BTM August 2012 99 motoringthismonth The latest generation of Porsche Boxsters offer a fresh, contemporary look that deliver a comprehensively different open two-seater sports car. Porsche Centre Bahrain has launched next generation editions of the Porsche Boxster and Boxster S; both of which have a new, lightweight body and a completely redesigned chassis. Considerably lower weight, longer wheelbase, a wider track and larger wheels significantly enhance the mid-engine sports car’s driving dynamics undermining its position as the best in its class. Superior performance is backed by up to 15 per cent more fuel efficiency, and depending on model, each get by with significantly less than eight litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. Fundamentally changed styling — with shorter overhangs — a significantly forward-shifted windscreen, flatter silhouette and expressive edges all provide the Boxster with a fresh, contemporary look. The new roadster’s posture is decidedly more muscular and striking. Passengers are enclosed by a redesigned, fully electric hood, which now dispenses with a convertible top compartment lid. This affords the occupants more space, and reflects the new Porsche outline — a raked centre console, which originated with the Carrera GT. “Without any doubt, the new generation Boxster represents a quantum leap in Porsche’s development of mid-engine vehicles,” says Morgan Sunderland, brand manager of Porsche Centre Bahrain. “It combines a breathtaking design with a great day-to-day usability. This new roadster stands for pure driving pleasure through the principles of Porsche Intelligent Performance.” Both the Boxster and Boxster S models are powered by flat-six boxer engines with direct petrol injection, enhanced by electrical system recuperation, thermal management, an auto start/stop function as well as electro-mechanical power steering. The base model’s new power unit delivers 265 hp, while the Boxster S produces an output 315 hp and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just five seconds. Both models feature a manual six-speed gearbox as standard, with the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe available as an option. The Sport Chrono package comes as an optional extra for the Boxster, featuring dynamic transmission mounts for the first time. Newly available as an add-on feature in the roadster is Porsche torque vectoring, with mechanical rear axle differential lock, the ideal complement to Porsche stability management. E Call 17 459-911. 100 x Wheels - 101 x Showcase - 105 x Deals on Wheels Also this month Stunning Speedster Porsche Boxster Smooth Operator The new Volkswagen Passat redefines the benchmark for affordable luxury with innovative technology, stylish design and peerless engineering. The 2012 model is larger, more comfortable and sets benchmarks in safety, technology, space and luxury. “A revolution in its category, the new Passat brings luxurious but affordable Germanengineered motoring to the Middle East,” says Stefan Mecha, managing director of Volkswagen Middle East. Timeless, dominant styling is created with clear, minimal forms and lines with a predominance of horizontal body elements, reflecting Volkswagen’s unique design DNA. The Passat is available with a 2.5-litre 170 hp fivecylinder engine and a sixspeed automatic gearbox. VW Passat
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