2012 Porsche Boxster: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2012 Porsche Boxster is mostly a carryover for the final year of the 987.2 generation. The main change is the new limited-run Boxster S Black Edition, which pairs a 320-hp engine with blacked-out styling and extra equipment.

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About the 2012 Porsche Boxster

2nd generation Boxster (987.2 facelift), final model year before the 981 redesign.

Porsche positions the Boxster as a true mid-engine roadster: small, open-top, balanced, and focused on driver involvement more than outright luxury. Its core appeal is the combination of a naturally aspirated flat-six, precise steering, compact size, and everyday usability, helped by front and rear luggage compartments. Against rivals like the BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz SLK, the Boxster’s standout trait is how directly it connects the driver to the car, especially in corners and with the top down.

The standard Boxster remains the straightforward 255-hp roadster, while the 310-hp Boxster S adds stronger performance. The lightweight Spyder and new S Black Edition both have 320 hp, but the Spyder focuses on a stripped-down driving experience while the Black Edition adds features such as touchscreen navigation, automatic climate control, and cornering headlights.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

The new S Black Edition uses a 320-hp version of the 3.4-liter flat-six, compared with 310 hp in the regular Boxster S. The engines and transmissions in the base Boxster, Boxster S, and Spyder carry over.

Styling

The S Black Edition adds a blacked-out appearance treatment, including black-painted rollover hoops and other dark exterior details, plus 19-inch Spyder-style wheels.

Tech

The S Black Edition bundles touchscreen navigation, bi-xenon headlights with cornering lights, and automatic climate control. There is no lineup-wide technology update.

2012 Porsche Boxster specs and features by trim

Feature	2012 Porsche BoxsterS0 in stock	2012 Porsche BoxsterBase0 in stock	2012 Porsche BoxsterSpyder0 in stock	2012 Porsche BoxsterS Black Edition0 in stock
Engine	6-Cyl, 3.4 Liter	6-Cyl, 2.9 Liter	6-Cyl, 3.4 Liter	6-Cyl, 3.4 Liter
Transmission	Manual, 6-Spd	Manual, 6-Spd	Manual, 6-Spd	Manual, 6-Spd
Drivetrain	RWD	RWD	RWD	RWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	20 mpg	20 mpg	20 mpg	20 mpg
MPG Highway	29 mpg	29 mpg	29 mpg	29 mpg
Horsepower	310 hp	255 hp	320 hp	320 hp
Torque	266 lb-ft	214 lb-ft	273 lb-ft	273 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	9.9 cu-ft	9.9 cu-ft	9.9 cu-ft	9.9 cu-ft
Seats	2	2	2	2
Doors	2	2	2	2
Safety & Security
Adaptive Headlights
Alarm System
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
Heated Mirrors
LED Daytime Running Lights
Memory Exterior Mirrors
Power Mirrors
Power Retractable Soft Top
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
AM/FM Radio
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Automatic Air Conditioning
Heated Front Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Leather Seats
Memory Driver's Seat
Push-Button Engine Start
Ventilated Front Seats

How the 2013 Porsche Boxster compares

The 2013 Porsche Boxster is a full redesign and the first model year of the 981 generation. The headline change is a lighter, longer-wheelbase structure joined by updated flat-six engines and a fully electric fabric top.

See the full 2013 changes

Frequently asked questions

Was the 2012 Porsche Boxster redesigned?

No. The 2012 Boxster is the final model year of the 987.2 generation, and the full 981-generation redesign follows for 2013.

What is new on the 2012 Porsche Boxster S Black Edition?

The S Black Edition is new for 2012. It combines a 320-hp 3.4-liter engine with blacked-out exterior details, 19-inch Spyder-style wheels, touchscreen navigation, automatic climate control, and bi-xenon cornering headlights.

How does the 2012 Boxster S Black Edition differ from the regular Boxster S?

The S Black Edition has 320 hp rather than the regular Boxster S model’s 310 hp. It also adds dark exterior trim, 19-inch Spyder-style wheels, navigation, automatic climate control, and upgraded headlights.

Did the regular 2012 Boxster models receive new engines?

No. The base Boxster, Boxster S, and Spyder retain their existing engines and transmissions for 2012. The only power increase is tied to the newly added S Black Edition.

Was the Boxster Spyder still part of the 2012 lineup?

Yes. The 2012 Boxster Spyder remains the lightweight, driver-focused version, with a 320-hp engine, manual two-piece roof, aluminum doors, lowered sport suspension, and a locking rear differential.