Porsche->ke1 has received a lot of criticism in recent years for not letting the Boxster->ke570 and Cayman->ke5 models live up to their potential. It's a well known fact that in order to protect the iconic 911, the Germans have been keeping their entry-level models from becoming too powerful. Fortunately, that's about to end once the current Cayman receives its mid-cycle update in 2016, as the mid-engined coupe->ke141 is set to receive a GT4 version similar to the GT3 package the 911 has had since 1999. As 2014 comes to an end, there's more good news coming from Stuttgart, in the form of what appears to be a GT4-spec Boxster. While Porsche has yet to confirm such a roadster is underway, a new Boxster prototype that surfaced in Germany suggests the drop-top sports car->ke506 could be in for a similar update.

We should find out more about that in the first half of 2015, but if the Boxster GT4 is indeed on its way, it is likely to arrive in dealerships for the 2016 model year as the most powerful and most track-focused Boxster yet. Meanwhile, read on to find out what we know so far about the roadster that's set to climb above the GTS as the range-topping Boxster.

Updated 12/16/2014: Based on the recent spy shots, we created a rendering for the future Boxster GT4. Check it out after the jump.

Click past the jump yo read more about the 2016 Porsche Boxster GT4.

Rendering

As seen recently while testing, the GT4 has a new set of wheels, a new bumper with larger intakes, smoked headlamp casings, and 911 GT3-style nose gills. Our artist also added some GT4 decals and badges, side sills, and a new lip spoiler.

Exterior

Since the GT4 will arrive alongside the facelift the current-generation Boxster is set to receive for 2016, the new range topper will sport updates similar to those seen on the base Boxster and even the revised 911 that is still in development as of 12/10/2014. Novelties include new LED daytime running lights, revised headlamps and slightly reshaped taillights. The facelift also brings new bumpers to the Boxster, but with the GT4 badge comes even more aggressive units, with bigger air intakes and a prominent splitter up front. While this new prototype seems to sport a standard rear apron, the GT4 will most likely carry a rear diffuser to differentiate itself from the other Boxsters.

A bigger rear spoiler is noticeable atop the engine bonnet, and although that may be different from the fixed rear wing the Cayman GT4 is getting, it's a unique feature for Porsche's entry-level convertible. On the other hand, the ducktail-like feature could be reshaped as the GT4 transforms into a production car. Revised side intakes, side skirts, a new wheel design and larger brakes will round off the exterior package.

Interior

Not much is known about the interior updates coming with the facelift, but it's safe to assume changes won't be too radical. A few nips and tucks and minor tech upgrades will keep the Boxster fresh until the next-gen model arrives. However, it's likely that the GT4 gets a few unique features that will enable it to stand out in a pack of regular roadsters.

Drivetrain

Although the engine that will motivate the Boxster GT4 is still a mystery -- rumors have indicated that either a flat-six or a brand-new, turbocharged four-cylinder will be the driving force behind the GT4 -- we expect it to deliver some 370 to 400 horsepower. As for transmissions, it seems the GT4 might get both the seven-speed PDK and a manual gearbox. The prototype our paparazzi spotted is equipped with a manual, which means a three-pedal option is quite possible. Fingers crossed for that!

The new drivetrain should enable the Boxster GT4 to sprint from naught to 60 mph in less than 4.4 seconds. The quickest Boxster is the GTS, which needs 4.7 seconds to achieve the same benchmark.

Prices

It's way too early to talk about pricing, but don't expect the Boxster GT4 to come cheap. Word has it the Cayman GT4 will fetch about $125,000, meaning its convertible sibling will likely cost more than $100K. The Boxster GTS is currently the most expensive Boxster model in the U.S., retailing from $73,500.

Competition

Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG

When it comes to high-performance roadsters, the SLK55 AMG is one of the very few that could give the Boxster GT4 a run for its money. Sure, the Merc lacks the sportier credentials of the mid-engined Porsche, but it has enough horsepower to make the upcoming GT4 sweat. The current model was introduced in 2011 and has yet to receive an update. The AMG-prepped version comes with a naturally aspirated, 5.5-liter V-8 under its hood, which sends 416 horsepower to the wheels. The roadster needs 4.5 seconds to sprint from naught to 60 mph and hits a top speed that's limited at 155 mph. Although the SLK55 is 0.2 seconds quicker than the range-topping Boxster GTS, it will be no match for the upcoming GT4.

However, by the time the GT4 reaches dealerships sometime in 2016, an updated SLK might be available with AMG's brand-new, bi-turbo, 4.0-liter V-8. The SLK is also slated to receive a new name as part of Mercedes' new naming strategy. The SLK will switch to SLC, while the SLK55 AMG will most likely become the SLC55 AMG. Pricing for the 2015 model year roadster begins at $70,900.

Conclusion

It's too early to draw a conclusion, but if the Boxster GT4 becomes more than just a rumor, we will be getting the most powerful and track-focused Boxster ever built. The fact that Porsche could finally allow the mid-engined Boxster to live up to its potential is great news for customers in need of a track-focused sports car that's more affordable compared to the 911 GT3.