Porsche Taycan review: Taycan, 4, 4S, GTS, Turbo and Cross Turismo compared

The Porsche Taycan remains the electric car for buyers who want a genuine sports-sedan shape, serious long-distance charging and a cabin that feels designed around driving rather than a giant screen. In Australia, the family spans rear-drive Taycan and Taycan 4 models, 4S, GTS, Turbo, Turbo S and the more practical Cross Turismo body. The important differences are not just acceleration figures: battery choice, traction, ride height, cargo space and standard equipment change the ownership experience.

Taycan variants and the numbers that matter

Porsche’s Australian technical data lists a broad Taycan range. The entry rear-drive car is the efficiency-minded starting point, while the Taycan 4 adds all-wheel drive for wet-weather traction. The 4S and GTS bring more power without moving into the extreme Turbo pricing bracket. Turbo and Turbo S are built for repeated high-speed performance, and Turbo GT is the circuit-focused flagship. Cross Turismo versions use a raised wagon body, extra ground clearance and a larger, more useful rear opening.

The gross battery is 89kWh with the standard pack and 105kWh with Performance Battery Plus, with usable energy lower than those headline figures. Porsche quotes around 18 minutes from 10 to 80 per cent at a 270kW charger on the latest platform. The real result depends on battery temperature, charger sharing and the car’s state of charge.

Charging that suits Australian touring

The Taycan’s 800-volt electrical system is its strongest practical advantage over many older EVs. A high-power DC stop can add a meaningful travel buffer during a coffee break, and Porsche’s route planner can prepare the battery before the car reaches a selected charger. At home, an 11kW AC wallbox is a better match for the large battery than a standard household socket. Owners should confirm switchboard capacity and cable length before installation, particularly in older Australian homes.

On a highway trip, the Taycan’s low bonnet and smooth underbody help it travel efficiently, but the performance grades carry wider tyres and more equipment. A full charge does not create a fixed travel distance: high speeds, cold weather, roof loads and a trailer will reduce the usable margin. Buyers heading beyond the capital cities should map reliable fast chargers and check Porsche roadside coverage for their route.

How each Taycan drives

The rear-drive Taycan is the calmest version. It has enough power to feel immediate in traffic, but it avoids the extra front motor and weight of the all-wheel-drive cars. With the larger battery it is the most logical choice for a driver who values range, quiet commuting and the classic Porsche driving position more than maximum launch performance.

Taycan 4 adds all-wheel drive without turning every trip into a performance demonstration. The extra traction is useful on wet roads and steep driveways, while the suspension can remain comfortable when the optional adaptive air system is set to its softer modes. The 4S has a noticeably stronger mid-range and firmer attitude. It is the sweet spot for drivers who want the Taycan to feel special on a winding road but still carry passengers without drama.

GTS is the enthusiast’s choice. It combines the Performance Battery Plus pack with a lower, more focused chassis tune, rear-biased torque character and a sharper response from the steering and accelerator. Turbo and Turbo S deliver extraordinary acceleration, but the benefit is not simply a bigger number. Their cooling, brakes and control systems are designed to repeat hard acceleration without the feeling fading after one run. Turbo GT sits beyond the sensible road-car brief, prioritising track response and aerodynamic hardware.

Cabin, comfort and practicality

The Taycan is a low sports sedan, not an SUV, and that distinction matters. The front seats are excellent for long drives, visibility is better than the roofline suggests and the driving position feels properly anchored. Rear headroom is adequate rather than generous for taller adults. The cabin uses a curved driver display, a central touchscreen and, depending on specification, a passenger display. Physical controls remain for key functions, which makes the interface less distracting than a pure screen-only layout.

The sedan has useful front and rear luggage areas, although the loading aperture is less convenient than a hatchback. Cross Turismo models are easier to load and more flexible for bikes, prams or weekend bags. The raised suspension is not intended for serious off-road work, but it helps on gravel access roads and steep car-park ramps. Check the exact towing rating and equipment because it varies by body style and specification.

Strengths

• One of the quickest and most convincing electric sports-car families sold in Australia.
• 800-volt architecture enables very rapid DC charging on suitable hardware.
• Wide spread of variants, from efficient rear-drive sedan to Turbo GT and Cross Turismo wagon.
• Low seating position, precise steering and strong brake-pedal feel.
• Premium cabin quality with practical front and rear storage.

Limitations

• Large wheels, performance tyres and optional equipment can make running costs expensive.
• The low sedan body is less family-friendly than an SUV when loading bulky items.
• WLTP range is not a promise for high-speed Australian summer touring.
• Most desirable equipment sits on a long options list and can lift the purchase price sharply.
• Owners outside major centres should confirm Porsche servicing and high-voltage support before ordering.

Which Taycan should you choose?

The standard Taycan is the rational pick for a daily driver who wants Porsche steering and a long-legged EV without paying for hardware they rarely use. Taycan 4 is better for drivers who regularly encounter heavy rain, slippery ramps or mixed road surfaces. The 4S gives the best balance between pace, range and price. GTS is the enthusiast recommendation because its chassis changes are meaningful every time the road starts to twist. Turbo and Turbo S suit buyers who want effortless performance and accept higher tyre, insurance and option costs. Cross Turismo is the most useful shape for active households.

Before you compare final prices, charging speeds and running costs, place the Taycan beside other new EVs in our Australian electric car comparison. Confirm current Australian equipment, warranty, battery coverage and delivery timing with Porsche, because local grades and option packs can change.

This review is research-based and uses Porsche Australia and Porsche Newsroom technical information. Confirm the exact vehicle specification and current pricing with an authorised Porsche Centre before purchase.