PORSCHE has a great new rival for the Audi TT RS – a new lightweight Porsche Boxster Spyder.

The new Boxster Spyder is the third model in the Boxster range, joining the Boxster and Boxster S.

It features two striking Carrera GT-style bulges on the single-piece rear lid, and extra low side windows – which makes it look quite different to the other Boxster models in the Porsche range.

The engine is the 3.4-litre flat six boxer engine from the Boxster S but with 10bhp extra to take power to 320bhp. It's also lighter than the Boxster S at just 1,275kg.

Fitted with the PDK twin-clutch transmission and Sports Chrono Package, the new Spyder, using Launch Control, can accelerate from a standstill to 62mph in 4.8 seconds yet return 30.4mpg. Top speed is 166mph.

The latest Boxster Spyder has more than a hint of Porsche's 1950s lightweight 550 Spyder.

The Porsche Boxster Spyder will make its public debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December, before going on sale in February 2010. Prices start at £44,643.

We have more pictures and details of both new and old Porsche Spyders on the Community section of Business Car Manager. Go here to view: http://community.businesscarmanager.co.uk.