Next year is shaping up to be the year of the Boxster. Not only will Porsche begin testing three electric prototypes of the drop-top, but an all-new car is due to make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

And while this mule appears very similar to the outgoing car, every panel and the fabric roof are completely new. And, in typical Porsche style, while the new car may bear a strong resemblance to the one it replaces, the third gen car will be quite significantly different under the skin.

For a start, the firm is working hard to cut its carbon dioxide emissions so the Boxster will be lighter than the car it replaces thanks to the use of more aluminium. But the biggest chance it likely to come with the engines.

While the Boxster S’ direct injection 3.4-litre flat six is likely to be carried over with minimal changes, the older, 255bhp 2.9-litre non-direct injection unit in the standard car is likely to be downsized to a turbocharged four cylinder which produces around 270bhp but, crucially, less emissions.

Emphasis will also be placed on the firm’s seven-speed PDK gearbox which allows faster shifts than a manual, but also contributes to better fuel economy because of the better spread of ratios.

The Boxster will be followed by the all-new Cayman later in the year.

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MINI returns to rallying

27 July 2010

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F1 faces at MotoGP, while Lotus and Ferrari test

22 June 2010

With formula one between grands prix, many familiar faces spent their weekends in a slightly different racing environment.

Sports lover Mark Webber was F1s most recognisable face in the paddock of premier motorcycle racing MotoGPs Silverstone round.

But also at the British circuit was Mercedes Nick Fry, HRT driver Karun Chandhok, commentator Martin Brundle and occasional steward Johnny Herbert.

I like to watch bike racing on TV, Australian Webber told sport1. I dont live far away, I have seen many friends here, and there are also many Australians working in MotoGP.

Elsewhere, despite the ban on in-season testing, more serious business was taking place.

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Donington alive and kicking after F1 fiasco

22 June 2010

Donington Park will celebrate its return to motorsport with an historic festival that draws on its own heritage.

Leading F1 cars will be a key feature of Donington Revived to be held over the first weekend of September 3-5 as well as demonstrations of cars from the circuits own Collection.

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Jenson and Lewis play at being pit crew for a day

22 June 2010

Jenson Button and Lewis Hamiltons latest advertising stunt does more than keep one of their sponsors happy it shows a potential alternative future for F1.

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