The Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 is a 2-seater Porsche convertible sports car made for those who like the Boxster platform, but can’t fathom the 4-cylinder lineup that comes with entry-level 718 models. The 4.0L flat 6-cylinder engine in the GTS model is sourced directly from the 911 GT3 and is a much more exciting and capable engine.
As such, the GTS comes with a large premium over the entry-level Boxster models, but most Porsche enthusiasts won’t think twice when it comes to choosing which engine fits the 718 chassis the best. The flat 6-cylinder is more expensive to run and some say that it is much more problematic than the 4-cylinder engine, but it is way more exciting.
When it comes to reliability, the 4.0L engine does suffer from connecting rod issues and higher levels of oil consumption. The transmission is also sometimes prone to issues, and so is the A/C system. The equipment including the rear spoiler and the folding soft top are also problematic on certain models.
All in all, the 718 GTS 4.0 is a relatively reliable car, but you do need to maintain it if you want it to stay that way. Besides that, it might just as well be the sweet spot of the entire 718 Boxster lineup because you get the flat 6-cylinder engine without paying Boxster Spyder money.
Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 – Engine issues
Many 718 models powered by the 4.0L flat 6-cylinder engine suffered from issues due to improperly attached rods which can cause the engine to stall. Some Porsche specialists have stated that these issues can not only stall the engine but destroy it completely. The engine could potentially burst into flames which is an extremely dangerous situation.
Porsche issued a recall to combat these issues which even put a complete halt to the production of the 718 lineup. Porsche then decided its best to completely replace the engine on cars with problematic rods and continue the production of flat 6-cylinder 718s with the newer engine in place.
Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 – Oil consumption issues
The 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 engine is also prone to higher levels of oil consumption. Some say that the rod issue is also connected to higher levels of oil consumption, but many Porsche specialists say that this issue is due to the way the engine is constructed in general.
Some even state that this is completely normal and that you should keep engine oil in your trunk and top it up whenever necessary. Either way, high levels of oil consumption can’t be viewed as something normal, so if you are interested in buying a 2nd hand 718 Boxster GTS, be sure to inspect the oil levels and ask the owner about it.
Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 – Transmission issues
The Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 comes with either a Porsche short-throw manual or the famed PDK 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. The manual box is incredibly fun to drive, but it is fairly delicate which means that you should take your time while using it and not be overly aggressive. Those clutches can wear out pretty quickly if you don’t do it the right way.
The PDK on the other hand is now fairly bulletproof, but you also need to take care of it. Change the transmission oil whenever necessary and do go too hard on launching the car. It may sometimes be a bit too slow to respond but that is mostly due to software issues that can be resolved without any issues.
Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 – A/C system issues
The Porsche 718 lineup seems to be suffering from various A/C system-related issues such as those associated with the condenser, the condenser lines, and the car’s inability to promptly cool down or heat up the cabin. Either way, these can be easily resolved by taking your car to a Porsche specialist who should be able to take care of it right away.
Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 – Equipment issues
The Porsche 718 line also sometimes suffers from issues associated with the rear spoiler which often fails to go flush into the car’s body. These issues aren’t really all that problematic because they can be solved with simple software updates.
The soft-top convertible roof is sometimes known to be slow or unresponsive. It can also jam itself in various positions which could require a service. This comes as no surprise as soft-top convertibles are delicate and after a while, they can fail.
FAQ Section
Is the Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 worth it?
If you love the 718 lineup and you prefer the Boxster over the Cayman, the GTS 4.0 might just be the perfect car for you. The reason why is simple, you get the flat 6-cylinder naturally aspirated engine without paying Boxster Spyder money which inherently isn’t all that much different than the GTS yet it costs more money.
If you are not overly tall and large, you should also be able to get comfortable in the Boxster and therefore the Boxster is a great car for you.
Why shouldn’t I buy a Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0?
There are a few reasons why you should avoid buying the Boxster GTS 4.0. The first one is the price because it starts at $90,000 which is about $10,000 less than the Porsche 911 992. A used 991 GT3 can be had for a similar price as a well-equipped GTS 4.0 which would most definitely be my choice.
Furthermore, the GTS 4.0 is a compact car that can’t do daily driving in 99% of situations. It’s small and cramped for anyone taller.
Does the Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 hold its value well?
The 718 lineup is widely recognized as having the very best resale value of all other cars from that segment. We also need to keep in mind that 6-cylinder 718 models are also a lot better at value retention than smaller 4-cylinder engines are which further solidifies the GTS 4.0 as a car that holds its value incredibly well.
