Boxster Spyder - 166mph Porsche roadster to debut in LA

Porsche will roll out a new incarnation of the Boxter Spyder at the Los Angeles auto show next month. The flagship mid-engined model is the lightest sporstcar in the company's range at 1,275kg and more powerful than the Boxster S, topping 235kW from its direct-injection 3.4-liter flat six-cylinder powerplant. All this adds up a hair-piece destroying top speed of 166mph (267kmh) with the roof open, making it Porsche's fastest Roadster.

When mated to the optional PDK transmission and Sports Chrono Package featuring Launch Control, Porsche says the Boxter Spyder makes 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds. This transmission also delivers quite reasonable fuel consumption of 9.3L/100kms in the NEDC New European Driving Cycle.

In addition to shedding 50kg off the weight of the Boxter entry model, refinements include a low slung body, lower centre of gravity, extra-low side windows, sleek twin-bulges in the engine cover and an new sports suspension.

Expect to see the Boxter Spyder in showrooms next year - no pricing has surfaced to date but more details are sure to emerge in L.A.