We’ve now tested the all-electric Porsche Taycan on multiple occasions, in a variety of configurations. For the most part, our team tends to agree that the 4S strikes the best balance between performance and efficiency. At the same time, most enthusiasts regard the GTS trims as being the proverbial “sweet spot” of not just the Taycan lineup, but most other Porsche models as a whole. So, with that in mind, we spent a week with the 2023 Porsche Taycan GTS to determine whether it lives up to that status.

Similar to most performance-oriented EVs, the Taycan delivers exceptional speed and ample torque right from the start, even in its base variant. The GTS version, equipped with Porsche’s 83.7 kWh Performance Battery Plus, sits between the 4S and Turbo models. Similar to the Audi RS E-Tron GT, boasting 590 horsepower and 626 pound-feet of torque, enabling a zero-to-100 km/h sprint in 3.7 seconds.

Notably, it comes with a two-speed transmission as well. It’s an impressive turn of speed for such a hefty vehicle, weighing just over 5,000 pounds. Regardless of the driving mode, the Taycan GTS responds promptly to inputs, offering a thrilling and unrelenting sense of acceleration.

But it’s not just about raw power. This Taycan GTS stands out from other EV rivals because it offers a genuine engaging driving experience. The substantial 305-series rear tires ensure remarkable grip, and the Taycan GTS confidently hugs the road, rivalling the confidence a 911 instills. All GTS models come equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management, featuring adaptive dampers that guarantee an almost perfect ride quality, mitigating all but the harshest of potholes and imperfections.

The Taycan GTS rides somewhat firm, but handles most surfaces with ease and boasts impeccable body control. The direct steering response, coupled with the optional rear-axle steering on our tester, helps the Taycan feel smaller than it is by making it feel more agile at higher speeds and reducing turning radius at lower speeds. However, it’s hard to overlook the Taycan’s sheer size, particularly its width, which might pose challenges around town. If you live in the city, or have a tight garage, this $2,170 option is money well spent.

In terms of real-world driving range, we observed approximately 380 kilometres with the Taycan GTS, which isn’t particularly impressive. While the “Range” driving mode restricts speed to maximize range by prioritizing the use of the rear motor unless the front motor is necessary, the similarly priced Tesla Model S Plaid beats the Taycan with a posted range of up to 637 kilometers. Charging the Taycan GTS to 80 per cent using our Level 2 home charger took roughly five hours, which is more than sufficient for most consumers.

Inside, the Taycan’s cabin strikes a balance between minimalism, tech, and comfort. It’s adorned with multiple screens, although the all-digital instrument cluster remains true to Porsche’s heritage with a five-gauge setup. Setting up wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is straightforward, but the lack of a dedicated volume knob might take some getting used-to. Additionally, while the optional passenger screen is an intriguing idea, it’s more of a novelty than a practical feature.

Settling into the driver seat is effortless, but it’s worth noting visibility and rear-seat headroom may be a challenge due to the Taycan’s sloping roofline and thick rear pillars. The panoramic glass roof adds a touch of sophistication, but it’s worth noting that doesn’t open, and there’s no physical sunshade so sunlight isn’t totally blocked out.

Porsche Canada prices the Taycan GTS from $152,100 to start, coming fairly well equipped even in “base” form. Notable options on our test vehicle included $13,050 for the Paint-to-Sample colour called Cream White, plus contrast stitching inside, 21-inch wheels, a 19.2-kW on-board charger, the Premium Package, the aforementioned panoramic roof, and the absolutely fantastic Burmester 3D surround sound system. All in all, this brought the as-tested sticker to $210,350.

Despite the constant influx of new EVs entering the market, the 2023 Porsche Taycan GTS stands out from its platform-mate, the Audi RS E-Tron, with striking aesthetics, the performance you’d expect, and the appeal the Porsche crest conjures. We still think the 4S is the sweet spot of the Taycan lineup, but for those who can afford the GTS’ price, it undoubtedly ranks among the best cars that money can buy today.

See Also

2022 Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC

A tale of two GTSes: Does a Porsche EV still feel like a Porsche?