Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo: 590 HP Wagon Review

The Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo stands out as a benchmark in the electric vehicle world, merging the brand’s legendary driving prowess with the practicality of a wagon body style. This model delivers 590 horsepower from dual electric motors, achieving 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds while offering ample space for passengers and cargo. Its design prioritizes driver engagement without sacrificing daily usability, making it ideal for long hauls, city commutes, and spirited backroad runs.

Powertrain and Performance Excellence

At the heart of the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo lies a sophisticated dual-motor setup. The rear motor, borrowed from the higher-end Turbo variant, pairs with a front motor from the 4S model, producing a peak of 590 horsepower and 626 lb-ft of torque under boost. Standard output sits at around 524 PS (380 kW), surging to over 600 PS in Sport Plus mode with launch control, accompanied by 850 Nm of torque. This power is managed through a unique two-speed transmission on the rear axle—a rarity among EVs—which optimizes low-speed punch and high-speed efficiency.

Acceleration feels explosive yet controlled. The short first gear delivers instant thrust off the line, while the taller second gear sustains momentum at highway speeds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but real-world testing on routes like Angeles Crest Highway confirms its capability, even in chilly conditions with snow. Reviewers note that torque vectoring and rear-biased power delivery encourage playful rotation under throttle, mimicking the behavior of traditional sports cars.

Chassis Dynamics and Handling Mastery

Porsche’s engineering shines in the chassis. Standard features like Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), air suspension, and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) allow seamless adaptation to driving modes and conditions. In Sport Plus, the setup transforms the 5,152-pound vehicle into a nimble sports car, with telepathic steering, instant turn-in, and minimal body roll. The suspension absorbs bumps efficiently without floating, maintaining a firm yet composed ride.

On twisty roads, the Taycan GTS exhibits Cayman-like grip and stability, shrugging off its mass through precise torque distribution and active anti-roll systems. Optional 21-inch RS Spyder wheels with 265/35 front and 305/30 rear tires provide tremendous mid-corner grip, keeping the car predictable even at the limit. The air suspension’s Gravel mode proves surprisingly capable off minor trails, enhancing versatility beyond pure pavement. Reviewers praise how it masks weight during aggressive maneuvers, delivering corner exit speeds that exceed expectations.

• Steering Feedback: Weighted and communicative, especially in Sport mode.
• Suspension Tuning: Firm edge for sportiness, luxury-level compliance for comfort.
• Drive Modes: From relaxed Normal to razor-sharp Sport Plus, with adaptive damping.

Design and Aerodynamic Styling

The Sport Turismo body style addresses the sedan’s limitations with a more upright rear roofline, improving headroom, egress, and visibility. Its fluid lines retain the Taycan’s sleek silhouette, enhanced by a slightly raised stance and subtle cladding for a crossover hint without rugged pretense. The flat flyline emphasizes purity and motion, while the overall width (2.1m with mirrors) underscores its presence.

Exclusive GTS touches include Race-Tex suede across surfaces, high-quality door handles, and a driver-focused cockpit. The 16.8-inch curved instrument cluster, flanked by touch controls for lights and chassis, keeps operations intuitive and distraction-free. Up to four digital displays maintain a tidy, modern interior.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Seating five is feasible, with the wagon’s design offering superior rear headroom over the sedan. Materials exude premium quality, and space feels generous for four, though rear legroom is adequate rather than exceptional. Cargo capacity includes 446 liters in the main boot (expanding to 1,200 liters with seats folded) plus an 84-liter frunk—practical for a performance EV.

Daily driving impresses with air suspension smoothing imperfections, blending sporty firmness and luxury refinement. Road trips are a strength: quiet cabin (enhanced by optional performance sound), efficient power delivery, and the two-speed gearbox’s engaging shifts. The synthesized audio, unique to GTS, adds immersion without mimicking combustion engines overly.

Battery, Range, and Charging

Equipped with the 93 kWh Performance Battery Plus (standard on GTS and above), it supports the model’s demands while enabling respectable range. Real-world efficiency shines on highways, aided by the rear transmission’s high gear. Charging capabilities match Taycan norms, with fast DC options for minimal downtime.

Pricing and Market Positioning

Starting around $185,710 CAD (comparable in other markets), it slots as the driver-focused value in the lineup, under Turbo models but above base variants. Rivals like the Panamera GTS or Audi RS6 can’t match its EV efficiency and instant torque, positioning it as a ‘one-car solution’ for enthusiasts.

Pros and Cons Overview

Driving Impressions from Real Roads

From Angeles Crest’s elevations over 7,000 feet to Colorado’s Ophir Pass, the GTS excels in varied scenarios. Sport Plus mode unleashes its sports sedan soul, with a perceptible kick during 1-2 shifts and immersive sound. Normal mode prioritizes comfort, gliding over bumps with poise. It’s engaging without fatigue, quiet yet aurally enriched for speed perception.

Technology and Driver Aids

Digital interfaces dominate, with mechanical buttons minimized for a clean look. Chassis controls via Direct Touch are precise, and PASM/PDCC integrate seamlessly. Adaptive features like ride height adjustment enhance adaptability.

FAQs

What makes the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo unique?

Its blend of 590 hp performance, two-speed rear transmission, wagon utility, and GTS-specific tuning for ultimate driver focus.

How does it handle compared to gas Porsches?

Remarkably similar, with sports car grip and feedback despite EV weight, thanks to advanced suspension and torque vectoring.

Is it practical for families?

Yes, with seating for five, good rear headroom, and expandable cargo, though boot is moderate.

What’s the real-world range?

Varies by driving style, but optimized for road trips with efficient highway gearing.

Should I choose Sport Turismo over the sedan?

If you value extra space and headroom, absolutely; dynamics remain identical.