A final flourish: Porsche’s last-of-line petrol Boxsters to wear Hankook rubber

After nearly a decade on sale, Porsche’s last petrol-powered Boxster is soon to bow out to an all-electric replacement. Before it does, we find out why the 718’s final act could be its greatest yet.

Despite often struggling to escape the 911’s shadow, to those in the know, Porsche’s enduring 2-door roadster has long been one its purest driving machines. In fact, since its inception back in 1996 the Boxster’s stood above its peers — some of which, like Audi’s TT, are no longer with us — thanks to a mid-engined layout and sonorous flat-six. Oh, and don’t forget the finely-honed chassis which is equally at home pootling along with the top down, as it is flying along an autocross course with the revs pinned at 7000.  

Sadly, though, the Boxster’s days are numbered. Will its EV replacement offer the same back-to-basics, lightweight thrills? We can’t predict the future, but we certainly hope so. In the meantime, Porsche wants to ensure the old dog goes out with a bang, not a whimper.  

That’s why it’s chosen to fit its last-of-line Boxsters with Hankook’s accomplished Ventus S1 Evo 3 tyres. Having spent nearly 30 years building the Boxster’s reputation as a purist’s dream machine, Porsche is understandably keen not to tarnish that memory. As such, the Stuttgart brand clearly has faith that Hankook’s tyres can match the Boxster’s legendarily versatile breadth of abilities, and for good reason.

Starting with the most important aspect of any good Porsche (the driving feel and performance) Hankook’s Aramid reinforcement belt ensures none of the Boxster’s handling precision or engagement is lost through the tyres. Helping to maintain the optimal contact patch while cornering hard, this technology, in combination with a stiff outer shoulder, beautifully compliments the 718’s inherent agility and balance.  

But the Boxster’s always been a true all-rounder, not just for high days and holidays like some roadsters. When you’re finished listening to the 6-pot’s hard-edged rasp, simply pop the roof back up and you’ve got a cruiser that’s very nearly as refined as the hardtop Cayman. Such serenity is then further enhanced by the Ventus S1 Evo 3’s inside and outside dual pitch tread pattern, designed to reduce fatiguing road noise.  

This split personality is equally evident in the Boxster’s PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) shock absorbers. Allowing the driver to stiffen or slacken the dampers at a push of a button, the Boxster’s personality can seamlessly switch from soft and cosseting to tied-down and aggressive when the road (and mood) permits. And, just like the car, the Evo 3 tyre’s improved thermal circulation and air permeability offers better ride quality, without compromising grip or response when it’s needed most.

Given its ability to charge down a backroad at speed, safety and control in all weathers are also key Boxster tenets. Luckily, despite a mid-ship layout (which can promote snappy, unpredictable handling behaviours in some vehicles) the Porsche’s expertly-tuned geometry, combined with a suite of driver assistance technology should things go too far, results in a confidence inspiring drive regardless of conditions. Then, acting as an added safety net, Hankook’s interlocking groove technology enhances wet cornering grip and prevents aquaplaning on slick surfaces.  

Highlighting the excellence of the pairing between Boxster and Ventus S1 Evo 3, Hankook development driver Aleix Alcaraz confirms, “Sports cars with a mid-engine are always something special. That's why the special driving experience of the Porsche 718 Boxster played a big role in the test drives. The result is a tyre that is in perfect harmony with the vehicle. Good grip in every situation, the necessary lateral stiffness and high steering precision, all of which are essential for both safety and driving pleasure with a sports car. This is exactly what our tyre delivers.” 

Thanks to an equally eclectic mix of performance, comfort, and safety characteristics, we think Porsche has chosen wisely for its run-out Boxster’s rubber. Though the 718 might be nearly a decade old, Hankook’s Ventus S1 Evo 3 breathes a fresh lease of life into the soon-to-be discontinued platform. 

Will the ICE-powered Boxster be missed? Let us know if you think it’s still king of the roadster hill.

Hero image credit: Porsche