Porsche 911 Model Changes: Joining Porsche's ever-expanding 911 model lineup for 2008 is the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, bringing the 911 Turbo's engine to the Cabriolet body style. Also new for this year is the very limited-edition, track-oriented GT2 model. The 911 lineup is otherwise carried over to 2008 without significant changes.

Porsche 911 Model Value: All of the overtly styled 2008 Porsche 911 variants offer the performance to back up their seductive, classic shapes, with 0-60 times ranging from around five seconds on non-S Carrera 4 and Targa 4 models to only 3.7 seconds on the Turbo. The 911 is also surprisingly practical for an exotic sports car, with fold-down rear seats to expand the cargo area, plus a second cargo area in front. All-wheel-drive models also offer great all-weather traction and can be driven year-round.

Porsche 911 Model Overview: Porsche's family of rear-engine 911 sport cars is now available in three power levels for 2008-standard, S, and Turbo-and in three body styles-Coupe, Targa, and Cabriolet. The standard engine on the 911 is a 325-horsepower, 3.6L horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine. S models get a 355-horsepower, 3.8L flat-six. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, but a five-speed automatic transmission is available throughout the model line and allows the Porsche "Tiptronic S" manual gear selection. The unique Porsche Targa, introduced last year, features a panoramic roof system that provides a completely open roof when desired, combined with the safety and convenience of a coupe for when the weather turns unpleasant. The Targa also has hatchback-style access to the cargo area with its pop-up back window and is the only 911 model with a separately opening lower tailgate. This body style is not available as a Turbo. There are also several all-wheel-drive variants of the 911. The Carrera 4 and 4S Coupe and Cabriolet models, along with the Targa 4 and 4S, get larger wheels and tires and a widened track for a more aggressive appearance in addition to the all-wheel drive system, which can send between 5 and 40 percent of engine torque to the front wheels. As standard equipment on Turbo models and available elsewhere in the line, the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system adjusts damper stiffness almost instantaneously for the driving conditions and works in conjunction with the stability control system. Cabriolet models get a tight, three-layer soft top that can be opened or closed in about 20 seconds, plus pop-up rollover bars behind the rear seats for supplemental safety and a specially calibrated suspension. Variable-ratio steering is standard on all 911 models. S models come with PASM technology standard, while it is optional on the non-S models. Even though the 911 is primarily a sports car, it comes equipped with many of the features that might be expected in a luxury coupe, like automatic climate control, a 235-watt, nine-speaker sound system, power accessories, heated mirrors and windshield nozzles, and a trip computer. Split-folding rear 2+2 seatbacks allow for an expanded cargo area, and there's also a substantial cargo area in front. The options list is long, including various wheels and trim upgrades; other highlights include the Sport Chrono Plus package, which brings a more aggressive throttle calibration and a built-in lap timer, and a DVD-based navigation system. The top 911 Turbo and new-for-2008 Turbo Cabriolet come with a twin-turbocharged, 3.6L flat six-cylinder engine. The engine makes 480 horsepower, 60 more than its predecessor, and 460 lb-ft of torque, also up significantly. With the optional Sport Chrono Package, the turbocharger is allowed a 10-second "over boost" that brings peak torque to 505 lb-ft for quick bursts of passing. The Turbo can go from 0 to 60 in only 3.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 193 miles per hour. The Turbo Cabriolet can get to 60 mph in just four seconds. Also new for 2008 is the 530-horsepower, very limited-edition GT2, which brings a special Le Mans race-car-inspired body and prominent rear wing, along with weight savings throughout for a top speed of 205 mph, and ranks as the most expensive 911 model ever. The track-oriented GT3 returns for 2008 and it is accompanied by the GT3 RS. Both feature a 415-horsepower, non-turbocharged version of the 3.6L flat-six with a high 7,600-rpm redline. The GT3s are only offered with a six-speed manual transmission with shorter gear ratios. The GT3 duo comes with rear-wheel drive and includes a traction control system that can be completely disabled, along with a mechanical limited-slip differential to help send the power to the wheels as needed. PASM is standard, and the GT3 has a normal mode for driving on rougher surfaces and a sport mode for maximum racetrack performance.

Porsche Boxster Model Strengths: Outstanding performance; sensory driving experience; available interior upgrades; flashy Limited Edition models.

Porsche Boxster Model Changes: A new Porsche GT3 RS Orange Boxster, made in a limited number of only 500 vehicles, is the big news for 2008. The Limited Edition Boxsters get the same orange-and-black motif, along with some of the same appearance cues, as found on the race-ready, exclusive 911 GT3 RS model, plus a performance sport exhaust, black convertible top, and special Alcantara interior trim. The rest of the Boxster line is carried over to 2008.

Porsche Boxster Model Value: The Porsche Boxster is more serious and performance-oriented than most other two-seat roadsters for 2008, yet it's comfortable and tight enough inside to drive year-round, provided you're not in the Snow Belt. And critics almost universally praise it in terms of the very direct sensory driving experience it provides. The bases Boxster makes a tempting value proposition relative to those other roadsters, but beware that heavily optioned Boxster S models can approach the low end of the 911's price range.

Porsche Boxster Model Overview: The mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive Porsche Boxster continues to be powered by a 245-horspower, 2.7L horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine for 2008, while the S model gets a stronger 295-horsepower, 3.4L flat six. Boxsters come with a five-speed manual gearbox, but if optioned with the available Sport package it has a six-speed manual; Boxster S models come with the six-speed, but either model can be optioned with the five-speed Tiptronic automatic. A power-folding soft top is standard on the Boxster, as is a rear spoiler that automatically deploys at speed to aid stability; it re-stows automatically upon return to lower speed. The Boxster isn't luxurious, but it does come well equipped and with distinctive materials inside. Standard equipment includes automatic climate control, cruise control, an alarm system, a CD sound system, leather-trimmed upholstery, heated power mirrors, and heated washer nozzles. The Boxster has an overwhelmingly long list of optional equipment, including special interior trims, accessories, and more major options such as adaptive sport seats, a Bose surround sound audio system, the park assist system, and a Sport Chrono Package for those who plan to attend the occasional track day. The Sport Package adds to the base Boxster the six-speed gearbox, along with PASM, an active suspension system that rides 10 mm lower and enables more firmness during hard cornering. The new GT3 RS Orange Boxster model for 2008 brings many of the appearance cues of the race-ready, 911 GT3 RS super car to the Boxster, including the distinctive orange-and-black colors. The Limited Edition Boxsters will get black wheels with silver rims, along with a Sport Design body kit that brings a redesigned rear spoiler and integrated diffuser that actually reduces aerodynamic lift without increasing drag. Inside, there's a suede-like Alcantara trim used throughout, with the orange-and-black motif carried throughout the interior, and a three-spoke steering wheel such as that used in the real GT3.The Limited Edition Boxster is actually priced at a savings when compared to the cost of adding the additional equipment from the options list. The GT3 RS package will be offered in a limited run of 500 vehicles-250 as Boxster and 250 as Boxster S.

Porsche Cayman Model Strengths: Terrific performance; cutting-edge styling; lots of cargo space; good fuel economy; available luxury features.

Porsche Cayman Model Changes: The Porsche Cayman gets only a few minor changes and refinements for 2008. The recommended oil-change interval has now been extended to one year or 12,000 miles, and the spark plugs are to be replaced every four years or 36,000 miles. Instrument-panel air vents in the Cayman have a new Matte Black soft-touch finish, and a Carrera Red interior is new, but the Palm Green interior is gone. Macadamia Metallic, Atlas Grey Metallic, Malachite Green Metallic, and Ruby Red Metallic are new colors for the exterior, replacing Lapis Blue Metallic, Lagoon Green Metallic, and Carmona Red Metallic.

Porsche Cayman Model Value: The 2008 Porsche Cayman, which is closely related to the Boxster roadster, offers a sophisticated sports car experience for less money than Porsche's flagship 911. It is also more practical than most other comparable coupes, with respectable seating comfort, impressive cargo space, and surprisingly good fuel economy.

Porsche Cayman Model Overview: Porsche's 2008 Cayman is one of the best auto lease makes out there. Its powered by a 2.7L horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine making 245 horsepower, while the Cayman S gets a 3.4L flat-six making 295 horsepower. The Cayman comes with a standard five-speed manual transmission, but a six-speed manual is standard on the S. A five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is optional on both models. With the manual transmission, the Cayman S can accelerate to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, 0.7 seconds faster than the Cayman, and reach 171 mph, 11 mph faster than the Cayman. Yet both models are quite fuel-efficient compared to other sports car models; the Cayman with manual transmission carries an EPA-rated 20 mpg city, 29 highway. In addition to its stronger acceleration and higher engine power, the Cayman S comes with larger wheels, tires, and brakes than the Cayman. In both Cayman models, the engine is mounted mid-ship, just behind the seats, and power is delivered through the rear wheels. The Cayman has an exceptionally stiff body structure that is twice as flex-resistant as that of the Boxster roadster, which gives it especially crisp, precise handling, even on rough surfaces. The optional Porsche Active Suspension Management system (PASM) comes with Normal and Sport settings, allowing the driver to fine-tune the suspension for comfort or high-performance driving. Another performance-oriented option is the Sport Chrono Package, which adds a more aggressive calibration for the engine throttle, stability system, PASM and, if so equipped, the automatic transmission. Both Cayman models also have large four-wheel vented disc brakes with anti-lock. Ceramic composite brakes are optional for even greater braking power. Cargo space is strength for the Cayman; the two-seater has a front trunk with 5.3 cubic feet of space along with a rear trunk that has 9.2 cubic feet; together, the space rivals that of many sedans, according to Porsche. Safety features on the Cayman include seat-mounted side air bags and head-protecting windowsill-mounted bags, plus the Porsche Stability Management system, which helps prevent a loss of stability. Options include bi-xenon headlamps, park assist, a DVD-based navigation system, and a nine-speaker upgraded sound system; the latter is standard on the Cayman S.

Porsche Cayenne Model Strengths: Seating comfort; ample cargo space; extraordinary acceleration (S and Turbo); nimble handling relative to other SUVs.

Porsche Cayenne Model Changes: Porsche's sport utility gets a revised appearance and some enhanced technical features for 2008. The Cayenne has a more aggressive outward appearance for 2008, with a front air dam, widened bumpers, and new headlight style in front, plus broader, more defined wheel arches. Direct injection is fitted to all three engines, increasing real-world fuel economy and increasing performance, and a newly available Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) helps improve handling while also increasing ride comfort. All Cayenne models get a button-engaged Sport mode that changes engine response. There's also a new rollover sensor linked to the curtain air bag system and seatbelt pretension. Dynamic Curve Lights are newly available across the line and standard on the Turbo and Porsche Stability Management now includes trailer stability control and an off-road anti-lock mode. Standard features and options have been thoroughly revised; a power lift gate is now standard, and 21-inch wheels are newly available.

Porsche Cayenne Model Value: The 2008 Porsche Cayenne appeals to people who want a nimble, fast vehicle with a driving experience that's almost like that of Porsche's sports cars, combined with the ability to tow a trailer or take on rough terrain.

Porsche Cayenne Model Overview: The 2008 Porsche Cayenne is offered in three different models-the base V6, the S, and the Turbo-each offered with a different power train. A 290-horsepower, 3.6L V6 comes with the base model, while the S comes with a 385-horsepower, 4.8L V8. The top-of-the-range Turbo adds an especially powerful 4.8L turbocharged V8 that makes 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission, with Tiptronic manual control, is standard across the line. The Turbo can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in only 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 171 mph. All three engines now have direct injection for improvements in both fuel efficiency and power. Both V8 models adopt VarioCam Plus variable valve timing, which varies intake valve timing and lift, and a new variable oil pump for the dry-sump lubrication system that's oriented toward high-performance driving. The five-passenger Cayenne offers two spacious rows of seating; the rear seat is split 60/40 and can fold flat to expand the cargo floor for larger items. A newly available system called Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDDC) uses hydraulic pressure to change the stabilizer-bar response depending on the road surface or cornering forces. The system allows both an improved, smoother ride when on- or off-road along with improved handling. All Cayenne models get large disc brakes with six-piston calipers in front and four-piston ones in back. The Porsche Stability Management system-including a new trailer stability control mode-is also standard across the line. Front side air bags and full-length side curtain air bags are included as well. The options list for the Cayenne is vast, including everything from an off-road package with skid plates to a trailer-towing package and luxury features such as a heated steering wheel and various distinctive wood grain interior trims. Base V6 models get 17-inch alloy wheels, while S models upgrade to larger 18-inch wheels. Several different wheel designs are optional, ranging up to flashy 21-inchers.