it is based on the VW bluesport concept, which will be released in 1-2 years.
next generation 911(991) and Boxster/cayman will grow in size. so, there is room for a such an entry midengine-roadster.

(VW bluesport roadster)

 

Yuck! They should call it a revival of the 914 and not a 356!

 

they didn`t call it revival of the 356 themselves, the press does.
some media also calls it: the revival of the 914. it is something in between imho. Porsche is using the Bluesport platform but will put everything in it to make it a real Porsche.

not a bad idea imho: a cheap(er) midengined roadster which should provide lots of fun.

 

I'm sure it will be fun and cheaper but that is exactly my fear. It will take away from the prestige of owning a Porsche and dillute the brand. No longer will one be able to say 'I have a Porsche', instead they'll have to qualify it with the model distinction.

When a Porsche becomes available to the masses, it loses some of its appeal.

IMO, they should keep it the VW Bluesport but borrow technology from Porsche.

 

the Boxster isn`t that expensive as well and hasn`t dilluted the brand since it hit the market imho. the MINI Rodaster will be a bit cheaper than the Boxster but if u compare it to other roadsters in that segment (like the MX-5 etc.) it will be expensive.

 

that will be probably worst move ever but it will fit modern business model when manufacturers deny any common sense and use same platform for completely different cars in different price segments in attempt to save some money.

Current 911 body is pretty much bulletproofed and is a result of several decades of gradual improvement - but to throw it away completely and replace with new cost-cutting crap would be very typical VW move.