The absolutely lovely Porsche 718 Boxster (pictures)

The newest 718 clocked a time of 7:42 on the infamous Nurburgring, a full 16 seconds faster than the outgoing model.

The 718 Boxster makes 300 horsepower out of a 2.0-liter engine. The 718 Boxster S gets a 2.5-liter engine, good for 350 horsepower. Both engines are four cylinders and turbocharged.

The 718 Boxster S gets the more powerful turbo of the two, with Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) as well as a wastegate. VTG pre-conditions the turbo to eliminate lag. This setup is lifted straight from the 911 Turbo.

With stiffer roll bars and more lateral rigidity than the outgoing model, as well as a power steering system lifted from the 911 Turbo, the 718 Boxster begs to carve up the corners.

Torque numbers are up in both the 718 Boxster and 718 Boxster S. The entry-level roadster gains a whopping 73 pound-feet, up to 280, while the S gets a more modest increase of 44 pound-feet, up to 310.

Porsche claims the top speed of the 718 Boxster is 171 mph, while the Boxster S will top out at 177 mph.

The 2017 718 Boxster gets bi-xenon headlights with LED running lights. LED headlights with a nifty four-point running lights are optional, and quite striking.

Under the spoiler is a black accent strip with dimensional Porsche lettering.

The 2017 Porsche 718 Boxster is so named for the 718 Spyder that Porsche campaigned in the late 1950s. The original had a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine making 142 horsepower and finished on the podium numerous times.

The seven-speed PDK transmission will set you back an additional $3,200. I advise against it as rowing your own in the roadster is an absolute joy.

The front of the 718 Boxster boasts larger airtakes, hinting at the turbo lurking beneath the surface.

Google Earth is now available in the revised Porsche Communication Management navigation system.

Ain't no pedals like three pedals.

The side view gets larger air intakes and a slightly redesigned door.

We predict you won't be driving this roadster with the top up all that much!

New 19-inch wheels are standard on the 718 Boxster S. 20-inch diameter wheels are available as an option.

While a six-speed manual transmission is standard in the 718, a seven-speed PDK is available.

With the Sport Chrono Package, drivers can set their ride for normal, sport, sport plus and individual.

In cars with the Sport Chrono Package and the PDK gearbox, drivers get the added bonus of the Sport Response Button. Think of it as 20 seconds of a Mario Kart power-boost mushroom.

The Porsche Communication Management System has been updated and includes Apple CarPlay.

The spoiler is no longer integrated into the tail lights in the new 718 Boxster. A shame really, as the design was striking and unique.