Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo: Performance and Style Redefined

The launch of the Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo marks a significant evolution for the luxury automaker, which first ventured into electric vehicles (EVs) in 2019. Initially celebrated as a triumph, the Taycan quickly became a bestseller in Europe, outpacing the Macan within a year and even surpassing the iconic 911 globally by 2021. However, recent shifts in consumer demand have prompted Porsche to reassess its strategy regarding battery-electric vehicles. Porsche CEO Oliver Blume recently announced a pivot in response to a slowdown in the luxury EV market, indicating that upcoming models will incorporate more traditional powertrains alongside electric options.

This strategic realignment raises questions about the future of the Taycan. Following a facelift last year, the Taycan has introduced enhanced performance and technology, with the new GTS model promising a refined driving experience that embodies the essence of a “proper Porsche.”

Unleashing Power and Performance

The GTS designation signifies a middle ground in Porsche’s performance hierarchy, positioned between the standard ‘S’ models and the more aggressive Turbo variants. In the case of the Taycan GTS, the power output is impressive, starting at 605 horsepower, an increase from the previous GTS’s 517hp. Engaging launch control can temporarily boost this figure to 700hp, allowing the four-door family car to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.3 seconds. The top speed is electronically capped at 155 mph.

Equipped with a larger 105 kWh battery, the Taycan GTS boasts an official range of 370 miles, an improvement from the earlier model’s 313 miles. Additionally, it supports a maximum charging speed of 320 kW, enabling quick recharges that can add up to 100 miles of range in the time it takes to grab a coffee.

Design and Driving Experience

The Taycan GTS Sport Turismo stands out for its sporty aesthetics, featuring a Sport Design bodykit and an array of gloss black trim. Buyers can choose between 20-inch Aero Design wheels or the larger 21-inch RS Spyder rims. Inside, the cabin blends leather and Race-Tex upholstery with features like adaptive sports seats and a Bose surround-sound system. While the interior is well-appointed, boot space is relatively modest at 405 litres with the rear seats upright.

During test drives through the hills of Surrey and Kent, the Taycan GTS proved to be exhilarating. The combination of its powerful motor and four-wheel-drive traction delivers an almost instantaneous acceleration that is both thrilling and intense. The steering is precise, and the vehicle’s PASM adaptive air suspension maintains control while smoothing out rough road surfaces. Additional features like GTS-specific stiffer anti-roll bars and rear-axle steering enhance agility, making the car feel nimble despite its substantial weight of 2,310 kg.

While the Taycan GTS offers impressive performance, it faces challenges due to its weight, particularly in the more dynamic driving modes. For those seeking enhanced handling, Porsche offers an optional £6,476 Active Ride system that mitigates body roll and improves overall stability during cornering.

The Taycan GTS Sport Turismo starts at £119,200, positioning it as a premium choice within the EV market. The entry-level rear-driven Taycan begins at £89,200, which some have argued provides better value. Although the GTS may not present an objectively superior investment, its performance characteristics and Porsche branding contribute to its appeal.

Considering the current depreciation trends affecting high-end EVs, potential buyers should weigh their options carefully. However, for those whose companies are covering the costs, the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo stands out as a compelling daily driver, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology that few competitors can match.

In summary, the Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo represents a bold step forward for the brand in the electric vehicle landscape, combining the traditional Porsche driving experience with modern advances in technology and performance.