Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo: Ultimate Electric Estate

The Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo redefines what an electric vehicle can achieve by merging sports car dynamics with wagon practicality and light off-road prowess. This model stands out for its potent dual-motor setup delivering up to 563 horsepower, adaptive air suspension that handles diverse terrains, and a design that prioritizes both speed and space. Priced from around £88,000, it appeals to drivers wanting luxury, technology, and thrill without compromise.

Design and Practicality: Form Meets Function

The Cross Turismo variant elevates the Taycan’s silhouette into a rugged yet elegant shooting brake style. Its raised stance—20mm higher than the sedan, or up to 30mm with optional packages—adds a muscular profile while maintaining Porsche’s aerodynamic precision. The bodywork features protective cladding, roof rails, and larger wheel arches that hint at adventure capabilities, paired with distinctive LED matrix headlights and a panoramic glass roof option for an open feel.

Inside, the cabin exudes premium quality with sustainable materials, a driver-focused cockpit, and an optional passenger display. Rear space benefits from the wagon format, accommodating taller passengers comfortably, unlike the sedan’s tighter quarters. Cargo versatility shines: the main boot offers 366-1219 liters (expandable with seats folded), plus a 84-liter frunk for smaller items. This setup suits family outings or weekend escapes, far surpassing typical EVs in utility.

• Boot Capacity: Up to 1219 liters with seats down
• Frunk: 84 liters for daily essentials
• Rear Legroom: Generous for adults on long trips

Powertrain and Performance: Electric Thrill Redefined

At its core, the Taycan 4S Cross Turismo packs a 93.4kWh battery feeding dual electric motors for all-wheel drive. Peak output hits 563bhp with overboost and 650Nm torque, propelling it from 0-62mph in 4.1 seconds and onto a 149mph top speed. Real-world tests confirm its prowess: one evaluation clocked 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds, quarter-mile in 11.8 seconds at 121mph, showcasing consistent power delivery even as the battery depletes—unlike many rivals.

The rear-axle two-speed transmission is a standout, enabling seamless highway cruising and explosive launches. Mid-range acceleration feels relentless, ideal for overtaking. While not the quickest Taycan, it’s more than ample for most, balancing speed with the model’s 2,245kg curb weight.

Handling and Ride Quality: Versatility in Motion

Porsche’s chassis tuning wizardry shines here. The adaptive air suspension adjusts ride height and damping on the fly, offering modes from comfort-biased Normal to Gravel for unpaved paths. On tarmac, it delivers precise steering with natural feedback—uncommon in EVs—yielding 0.88g cornering grip on summer tires. The extra height and weight are noticeable in braking (161 feet from 70mph), but body control remains composed.

Off-road, Gravel mode lifts the car another 10mm, enabling confident traversal of dirt, sand, and gravel without drama. Reviewers praise its playful nature in loose surfaces, kicking up roostertails while staying planted. Urban refinement impresses too: silent propulsion and plush low-speed ride absorb potholes effortlessly, though high-speed crests can occasionally thump.

Steering feedback builds confidence, inviting spirited drives. Roll is minimal, and the electronic limited-slip differential sharpens turn-in. It’s a car that feels alive, proving EVs can match internal combustion excitement.

Range, Charging, and Efficiency

Official WLTP range stands at 277 miles, realistic in mixed driving. The 800V architecture supports 270kW DC charging, achieving 5-80% in 23 minutes—class-leading fast. Home AC charging via the onboard 11kW unit takes about 9.5 hours for a full top-up. Efficiency hovers around 3-4 mi/kWh, improving with conservative driving.

• DC Fast Charge: 270kW max, 23 mins 5-80%
• AC Charge: 11kW, ~9.5 hours full
• Real-World Range: 250-280 miles

Technology and Driver Aids

The infotainment ecosystem includes twin 16.8-inch curved touchscreens, a 10.9-inch gauge cluster, and optional augmented reality head-up display. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, over-the-air updates, and InnoDrive adaptive cruise with lane-keeping enhance usability. Porsche Active Ride Control (on newer gens) firms up at speed while softening in town.

Safety features encompass night vision, 360-degree cameras, and traffic jam assist. Sound options like Sport Chrono amplify the synthetic audio for immersion.

Ownership Costs and Rivals

Starting at £88,270, options escalate quickly—expect £100k+ built. Three-year/50,000-mile warranty covers battery degradation to 70%. Low running costs (no VED until 2025) offset premium fuel-equivalent efficiency. Rivals like Tesla Model Y or Audi RS e-tron GT lag in dynamics or space.

FAQs

Is the Taycan 4S Cross Turismo suitable for off-roading?

Yes, Gravel mode and optional packs enable light off-road use like gravel roads and sand, with raised clearance and all-wheel drive for traction.

How does charging compare to other EVs?

Its 800V system offers ultra-fast 270kW DC charging, outpacing most competitors for minimal downtime.

What’s the interior like for passengers?

Spacious rear seats and vast boot make it family-friendly, with high-end materials and tech.

Does it handle like a traditional Porsche?

Absolutely—precise steering, balanced chassis, and feedback rival sports cars despite EV weight.

Any common issues reported?

Early models had minor ergonomic quirks, but ride composure and tech reliability are strong.