The Boxster has a quiet look that speaks volumes about Porsche design philosophy. There are no extraneous ducts or style-influenced bulges to be seen. Yet it's modern in the details that first made their way into the Porsche styling idiom through the high-powered Carrera GT (note the mirrors) and the current 911.

The headlight treatment has greatly improved on Boxster in recent years, separating the main driving lamp from the foglamp and turn signal cluster. This not only gives the Boxster nose a more traditional Porsche look, it also allows the foglamps to be placed further toward the car's corners for a better spread of light.

The frontal area and grille openings are large, the track is wide, and the enlarged running gear is covered by wide wheel arches, but aero-science helped fashion body panels, A-pillars, rear spoiler, door handles, and a fully covered undertray to create a more slippery profile with less lift and increased downforce; all good things when speed needs to fight the air.

Even where the eye can't see, the attention to crucial detail contributes to the durability and sportiness of the Boxster. To cite just two examples: small spoilers on the front longitudinal suspension arms that direct airflow to the front brakes to help keep them cool; and small, flexible blades attached to the undertray that steer airflow toward the transmission for the same effect.

To save weight, the Boxster does not come with a spare tire; instead, an air compressor and tire sealant will have to do. However, the addition of Porsche's new tire-pressure monitor should help warn drivers before a situation becomes dire and leaves one wishing for a spare.

Boxster S models are easily distinguished from 2.7-liter Boxsters by their twin oval exhaust tips.