Discover Why Porsche’s Most Extravagant Feature is a Game-Changer for Car Enthusiasts – The Autopian

I recently had the chance to drive the new Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0, and it reminded me of a unique feature that many cars simply don’t have. This feature is so useful it should really be standard in every vehicle. The fact that it isn’t makes me wonder if Porsche has a special hold on it.

As an automotive journalist, I get to test different cars. Usually, the features can blend together. For example, almost every car now offers some kind of wireless charging, but only a few really stand out—for better or worse. Cadillac’s clever design has a spot for your phone that really works, while others fall flat.

When it comes to seating, I notice there are three main types:

1. Seats that don’t heat or cool.
2. Seats that heat but don’t cool.
3. Seats that can heat or cool, but not both at the same time.

Being from Texas, I’m often met with surprise when I use seat heaters year-round. Even in the sweltering summer, I can be found driving with them on. Why? I enjoy the warmth against sore muscles from playing sports like Ultimate Frisbee. It’s not like I can complain about aches in the park without raising some eyebrows.

Cooling seats, on the other hand, aren’t my favorite. They can blast cold air like an icy wind, which isn’t always pleasant. I may use them briefly when I’m too hot, but then I turn them off quickly.

I remember my first experience with a car that could heat and cool the seats at the same time. It was in a 2010 Porsche 997.2 Carrera S. My wife and I were on a trip, and I turned on the seat heater while she opted for cooling. I jokingly activated both, not expecting it to work. To my surprise, the system allowed it!

Typically, heating works via conductive wires in the seats, while cooling relies on air being pushed through the seats. Porsche’s design is unique—they draw air through the holes rather than pushing it out. This means both heating and cooling can be used together, unlike most cars that require a choice.

Why do automakers limit customers to one or the other? It might seem logical, but the reality is that having both can be incredibly satisfying. If you’re warm but want to avoid sweating, this combo is the perfect solution—though it’s best not to crank both to the max.

Imagine driving with a cozy seat and feeling fresh at the same time. It’s an experience I wish more cars could offer. And when you’re in a convertible? It feels like pure bliss.

While a full review of the Boxster is coming soon, the standout feature of the seating system deserves a spotlight. A warm embrace inside a car shouldn’t be rare; it should be a given.

For more insights on car technology, you can check trusted sources like Consumer Reports or Automotive News.

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