Consumer Reports Names Porsche(R) Boxster(R) Top-Rated Upscale Roadster

The respected independent evaluation organization gives the Boxster, redesigned for 2005, an 'Excellent' overall score in its annual test of the industry's new vehicles

ATLANTA, Sept. 22 -- Consumer Reports, an independent and trusted source for information and advice on consumer products and services, selected the Porsche Boxster as the best vehicle in the upscale roadster category after subjecting the German roadster and six competitors to a battery of tests at the Consumer Reports Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Conn.

"The Boxster is very enjoyable to drive, with a firm, controlled ride and excellent steering," said David Champion, senior director of automobile testing for Consumer Reports. "Porsche's upgrades for the Boxster make it an even more capable roadster than its predecessor."

The Boxster, first introduced as a 1997 model and redesigned for 2005, features many upgrades that were noted in the Consumer Reports evaluation, including a completely updated interior, increased engine power, freshened styling and a convertible top that can be raised and lowered at low speeds. On a safety note, the organization declared the Boxster's brakes to be the best ever tested by Consumer Reports, with the car achieving an average stopping distance of 112 feet during repeated stops from 60 mph on dry pavement.

"We are honored to have the Porsche Boxster, our entry level sports car, recognized by such an important organization," said Peter Schwarzenbauer, president and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. "Many auto enthusiast magazines have praised the mid-engine roadster's driving characteristics, but this rating is special due to Consumer Reports' appeal to many outside of the enthusiast circles and because it is well respected for its objective and often candid evaluation of many types of products. It is an important research tool for consumers trying to make the best purchasing decision, whether they are shopping for a new vehicle or anything else for the home or family."

Full tests and ratings of the seven upscale roasters appear in Consumer Reports' October issue, which is available on newsstands now.

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), based in Atlanta, Ga., and its subsidiary, Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd., are the exclusive importers of Porsche sports cars and Cayenne sport utility vehicles for the United States and Canada. A wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, PCNA employs approximately 300 people who provide Porsche vehicles, parts, service, marketing and training for its 210 U.S. and Canadian dealers. They, in turn, provide Porsche owners with best-in-class service.