[2021 Edition] Performance Hybrids & Electric Cars

The 2021 Audi e-tron Sportback might not be able to boast the range capabilities of a Tesla, nor the overall performance of a Porsche Taycan. However, it’s comfortable, fashionable, and has all the right gear to help make the transition from gas to electric, a desirably non-eventful endeavor.

It even has a 4,000 lbs towing capacity, which no other passenger EV can match right now. This makes it a very important player in the lead up to Audi’s all-out-electrification strategy.

While it currently lacks the outright credentials to be considered a performance model, we are including it on this list as it will undoubtedly form part of the foundation of future Audi EV performance models. Later in the production run, there is certainly the potential for an RS variant to make its way into the lineup.

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The recently unveiled 2021 e-tron GT shares some of the same underpinnings with the Porsche Taycan, particularly its 800V battery architecture. Likewise, it utilizes two electric drive motors which separately power the front and rear wheels.

Being based on the same platform, the e-tron GT also derives the same sleek 4-door coupe side-view silhouette from the Porsche, but has distinctively Audi features on the front and rear fascias.

The Audi e-tron GT will be available in 3 trims - Premium Plus, Prestige and RS - with the latter being the most desirable to the typical performance junkie out there.

All models will use the same 93.4 kWh battery, with the regular e-tron GTs generating 476 hp, while the RS produces 598 hp. In Boost mode, each car gets a temporary power bump to 522 hp and 637 hp respectively.

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Probably the hottest performance-oriented station wagon on the market right now, the 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant sheds the conservative styling of the car it is based on, but keeps in line with the high-performance estate concept.

Derived from the already-excellent Audi A6 sedan, this souped-up station wagon adds RS-specific bodywork and exclusive go-fast goodies. The Audi RS 6 Avant is a powerful car with a mild-hybrid powertrain – a 48-volt hybrid system performs tasks such as restarting the engine and helps to manage electrical power.

At the heart of the car is the twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 engine that puts out a whopping 591 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque.

The results are impressive, too – the car can sprint from 0-62 mph in just 3.6 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. This is the first RS wagon to come to America, and Audi wants to make it count.

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Bentayga Hybrid is Bentley’s first step on a journey towards an electric future, embracing forward-thinking technology to enhance modern living.

It delivers all the impressive performance and exquisite craftsmanship you would expect from a Bentley. World’s first luxury hybrid.

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The BMW i4 is scheduled to hit dealerships sometime in 2021. The fully-electric sedan looks to be based on the 3-series platform and is shaping up to be in direct competition with the Tesla Model 3.

We’re still awaiting all the details, but what has been revealed so far is that the i4 will have a 530 hp electric motor and a 80 kWh battery. BMW also claims that it will have a range of 372 miles.

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While we often have to remind ourselves that the new NSX is indeed a hybrid car, there can be no argument that it technically is one. The 2021 NSX is essentially unchanged from last year’s model, with just a new paint color - Long Beach Blue Pearl - being added to the catalogue.

The NSX retains the 573 hp twin-turbocharged V6 with 3 electric motors and 9-speed DCT used in previous years. It still delivers supercar looks and performance in an everyday livable package. Some pundits call it a “light” Porsche 918 and that says more than anything else. Under-appreciated, but a worthy hyper car.

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Updates for 2021: The 2021 Jaguar I-Pace now offers the fast, intuitive, Pivi infotainment system and quicker charging capability. Continued improvements to the electric drive-train have also seen improvements in the range department.

The I-Pace is a very impressive EV on paper. Touted as the first true alternative to the Tesla Model X, Jaguar looks to unseat its competition showcasing a unique combination of technical prowess and driving engagement.

Remarkably nimble and planted in corners, the I-Pace is fun to drive while still offering the very best in EV range and performance. New for 2021, the I-Pace has received improvements to its battery pack and regenerative braking system which can improve range by up to 8 percent.

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If you haven’t heard of Lucid before, you probably will very soon. If you have, you might already be aware of their credentials in the EV world, having been suppliers of battery packs for Formula E race cars. Now the company is looking to foray into the consumer market with the release of their new Lucid Air production car in 2021.

They will do so first, by releasing their top-of-the-line Lucid Air Dream Edition. The Dream Edition looks to compete with the very best in this segment with an all-wheel-drive power plant which produces 1,080 hp.

The company says it's capable of 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds and can even complete the ¼ mile in under 10 seconds. Lucid plans to release lower trims models thereafter, which produce less power and have less features, including a rear-wheel-drive base model.

Updates for 2021:The AMG E 53 gets a mild refresh for 2021, which includes a redesigned front and rear bumper, improved infotainment system, more driver assists and an updated powertrain.

Slightly revised for 2021, the E 53 provides the perfect combination of sportiness and luxury. It comes equipped with a modern version of the classic Mercedes-AMG inline-6 - a turbocharged, beltless engine with a 48-volt hybrid system known as “EQ Boost”.

The result is a much more responsive powertrain which is amalgamated with E-Class innovation and AMG inspiration.

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Updates for 2021:The AMG E 53 gets a mild refresh for 2021, which includes a redesigned front and rear bumper, improved infotainment system, more driver assists and an updated powertrain.

Slightly revised for 2021, the E 53 provides the perfect combination of sportiness and luxury. It comes equipped with a modern version of the classic Mercedes-AMG inline-6 - a turbocharged, beltless engine with a 48-volt hybrid system known as “EQ Boost”.

The result is a much more responsive powertrain which is amalgamated with E-Class innovation and AMG inspiration.

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For fans of the E-class models and its 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 with EQ Boost, the E 53 Cabriolet offers the open top experience for the range.

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Updates for 2021: The CLS 53 gets the latest infotainment upgrades from the company and benefits from updated driver assist systems. Such assists include predictive functions, navigation with augmented reality, automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.

A twin-scroll turbo, 48-volt hybrid-assist system and electric auxiliary compressor, turn AMG enhancement into groundbreaking advancement in the AMG CLS 53. Air suspension, aggressive aero bodywork and an artful cockpit make it quite a breathtaking package.

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Updates for 2021: The GT 43 is new for 2021, and becomes the entry-level offering of the AMG GT sedans. It features the least powerful engine of the bunch, but allows for around $10,000 in savings versus the higher-up GT 53.

The first 4-door AMG GT has opened a new chapter in driving passion, and is by all accounts, the four-door variant of Mercedes-Benz’ GT sports cars.

Combining the practicality of a saloon with the looks and performance of an AMG GT, the company looks to cater to fanatics of the latter with a more family-friendly alternative.

It features a hybridized turbocharged inline-6 with EQ Boost which is mated to an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system. Its cabin is specially appointed with a healthy dose of wealth and luxury that can be thoroughly enjoyed by as many as 4 occupants.

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The first 4-door AMG GT has opened a new chapter in driving passion, and is by all accounts, the four-door variant of Mercedes-Benz’ GT sports cars.

Combining the practicality of a saloon with the looks and performance of an AMG GT, the company looks to cater to fanatics of the latter with a more family-friendly alternative.

It features a hybridized turbocharged inline-6 with EQ Boost, which is mated to an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system. Its cabin is specially appointed with a healthy dose of wealth and luxury that can be thoroughly enjoyed by as many as 4 occupants.

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The GLE is back with a bang for 2021, and the AMG GLE 53 SUV and Coupe are the latest to spark that arrival. Now benefiting from Mercedes’ EQ Boost hybrid electric system, performance is greater and more responsive than ever.

This transforms the unassuming but surefooted GLE into a driver’s SUV. With a total of 429 hp produced from the hybrid drivetrain, a quick-shifting 9-speed transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC+, the GLE 43 SUV also looks bolder than thanks to standard AMG 20” wheels and more aggressive styling cues.

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The GLE is back with a bang for 2021, and the AMG GLE 53 SUV and Coupe are the latest to spark that arrival. Now benefiting from Mercedes’ EQ Boost hybrid electric system, performance is greater and more responsive than ever.

This transforms the unassuming but surefooted GLE into a driver’s SUV. With a total of 429 hp produced from the hybrid drivetrain, a quick-shifting 9-speed transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC+, the GLE 43 SUV also looks bolder than thanks to standard AMG 20” wheels and more aggressive styling cues.

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The all-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 SUV and Coupe may cost around $10,000 more than last year’s models, but the price is justified by how much improvement has been made.

After being augmented with EQ Boost, the familiar 4.0L biturbo V8 now produces a whopping 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque for the 2021 models. This is a significant boost over the previous year’s equivalents, which produced 550 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque.

There is no longer a ‘non-S’ trim for the GLE 63 this year, with the GLE 63 Coupe S taking its place alongside the GLE 63 S SUV as the only GLE 63 offerings. Both models continue to be appointed with the highest levels of luxury from the brand.

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The all-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 SUV and Coupe may cost around $10,000 more than last year’s models, but the price is justified by how much improvement has been made.

After being augmented with EQ Boost, the familiar 4.0L biturbo V8 now produces a whopping 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque for the 2021 models. This is a significant boost over the previous year’s equivalents, which produced 550 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque.

There is no longer a ‘non-S’ trim for the GLE 63 this year, with the GLE 63 Coupe S taking its place alongside the GLE 63 S SUV as the only GLE 63 offerings. Both models continue to be appointed with the highest levels of luxury from the brand.

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Aside from the fun-to-drive characteristics it carries over from the petrol-powered versions of the Mini Cooper, the new SE offers few upsides when it comes to the performance offered by its new EV drivetrain.

The most attractive feature would probably be its price. It starts at $30,750 - that’s before factoring in the $7,500 federal EV tax credit - making it one of the least expensive EVs you can get into today.

The Mini Cooper SE uses a relatively lightweight battery which allows it to sustain the go-kart-like handling the brand is famous for.

However, this is at the cost of range; only 110 miles on a full charge. The electric motor sends 181 hp to the front wheels, while having 191 lb-ft of instant torque available in the diminutive car is surely a recipe for fun.

New for 2021, the base Porsche Taycan becomes the only variant to offer rear-wheel drive. The Taycan uses a single motor to power the rear wheels in lieu of the dual-motor configuration seen throughout the rest of the range’s all-wheel-drive models. This results in the Taycan now producing 321 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque.

While those figures correctly suggest an absence of the violent neck-snapping acceleration that’s available in the Turbo and Turbo S, and even the 4S models, the car never feels incapable as the power continues to be delivered quickly and efficiently in true EV-fashion.

We’re not suggesting the Taycan will be more fun to drive than any of the other variants, even though it’s rear-wheel drive. But, it will save you almost $24,000 compared to the 4S, and that’s a pretty big deal.

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The Taycan 4S has been bumped up one level in the range, now that the base rear-wheel drive model has arrived.

It still has plenty of performance, offers all-wheel drive as standard, and tends to be the more sensible option when put up against the much pricier Turbo and Turbo S stablemates.

We recommend getting the optional Performance Battery Plus, which gives the 4S the same 93.4 kWh battery used in the higher models. Compared to the standard 79 kWh battery, it provides more power (562 hp) and more range as well.

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Slotting in between the 4S and the range-topping Turbo S, is the Taycan Turbo. If you want to experience the insane acceleration and performance potential of a fully-electric motor, the Turbo is at the very minimum, going to be your gateway to getting there.

It differentiates itself from the Turbo S by having less standard features (most of which are performance oriented) and a slightly more tamed version of the electric motor.

All Taycan models' real-world range tests have consistently done better than the EPA-stated figures.

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The Taycan Turbo S is the ultimate Porsche EV. The absolutely mind-boggling 750 hp and 774 lb-ft of torque it instantaneously produces, rockets the car from 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds - hypercar territory, that is.

Porsche ceramic composite brakes (PCCB) are standard fare on the Turbo S, as are the otherwise optional 21” Mission-E Design wheels.

To provide even more extra stopping force, the Turbo S is also fitted with larger front and rear rotors than what is installed on the 4S and Turbo models.

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The Porsche Taycan 4 Cross Turismo is the entry-level offering within the CT range, with its performance most comparable to the base rear-wheel drive Porsche Taycan sedan.

It does get a boost over the aforementioned, thanks to the larger 93.4 kWh battery and all-wheel drive coming standard.

For those who have a budget in mind and are willing to forgo a bit of performance in order to partake in Porsche’s interpretation of fully-electric-practicality, the Taycan 4 Cross Turismo is a great choice priced at well under 6-figures before options.

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The Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo is the second offering in the CT range, and costs $6,500 more to get into than its sedan equivalent.

However, it is important to note that the 4S Cross Turismo comes standard with Performance Battery Plus (93.4 kWh battery) while the 4S sedan does not. Both models share the exact same performance specs when equipped with the 93.4 kWh battery, with the CT a smidge slower from 0-60 mph due to the extra bit of weight.

In our opinion, we feel that the 4S Cross Turismo offers the best balance of price, performance, and practicality out of all the models in the range.

Where the Taycan sedan is more a high-performance sports car, the CT is targeting the more pragmatic, family-oriented buyer; one who is more likely to find that the performance of the Turbo and Turbo S models go well beyond what is needed for the task at hand.

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For those who want to enjoy their Taycan Cross Turismo for more than just family road-trips and running errands around town, the Turbo offers insane performance if you also fancy a weekend session at the race track or straight-line launches on the empty country backroads.

The Turbo generates up to 670 hp and can complete 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, transforming the car from reliable kid-hauler to practical supercar. Among other things, the Turbo will also come standard with more features, which include 20” Taycan Turbo Design Wheels and larger brakes compared to the 4 and 4S models.

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The Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo is for those who desire performance without compromise and want to make the ultimate statement in a Porsche Taycan. While the practicality of the CT’s station wagon platform still remains, there is no doubt that it plays second fiddle to the performance credentials that only a Turbo S can offer.

Generating up to 750 hp, Porsche claims that the Turbo S Cross Turismo is capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds. However, a number of independent tests have been able to complete this feat in even less time, revealing hypercar credentials which are likely to overshadow the car’s inherent utilitarian qualities.

The Turbo S also comes standard with more equipment than any other CT model, with Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes (PCCB), Sport Chrono Package and Adaptive Sport Seats Plus (18-way) available at no extra cost.

The car is also equipped with 20” Taycan Turbo S Design wheels, which can be upgraded to the 21” Cross Turismo Design Wheels for free.

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The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid combines a twin-turbocharged V6 which produces 325 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque, with an E-Hybrid electric motor which adds up to 134 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It is the entry-level E-Hybrid model in the lineup.

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The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Executive is based on the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, and features a lengthened body (0.59”) to provide more comfort for rear passengers. Silver-colored elements on the exterior are also exclusive to the trim.

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The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

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The Panamera 4S E-Hybrid combines the 443 hp petrol engine used in the 4S model, with an E-Hybrid electric motor which adds up to 134 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

New for 2021, the 4S E-Hybrid could very well become the new sweet spot in the range thanks to its bountiful amounts of power, and the benefits of a hybrid engine. In terms of specs, it essentially replaces the outgoing Turbo.

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The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Executive is based on the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, and features a lengthened body (0.59”) to provide more comfort for rear passengers. Silver-colored elements on the exterior are also exclusive to the trim.

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The Panamera 4S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

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The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid is at the top of the food chain when it comes to the range, and is the only model to feature a hybridized version of the 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8.

On its own, the petrol engine produces 563 hp and 567 lb-ft of torque, with the E-Hybrid electric motor adding up to 134 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

Due to the extra weight, it’s actually just a bit slower than the Turbo S from 0-60 mph; of course, it also provides the huge upsides of hybrid technology, don’t forget.

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The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Executive is based on the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid and features a lengthened body (0.59”) to provide more comfort for rear passengers. Silver-colored elements on the exterior are also exclusive to the trim.

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The Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo provides the sultry, yet utilitarian wagon body-style. Extra room in the back allows for an impressive storage capacity of up to 49 cubic feet. It also comes standard with a 4+1 seating arrangement for extra versatility.

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The Cayenne E-Hybrid combines the 335 hp petrol engine used in the base model, with an E-Hybrid electric motor which adds up to 134 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It is the entry-level E-Hybrid model in the lineup.

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The Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupé further exclamates the Porsche DNA running through its veins.

The Coupé emulates the iconic flyline of the Porsche 911, which flows consistently from the headlights to a seamless taillight strip, forming the undeniable silhouette of a true sports car.

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The Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid is at the top of the food chain when it comes to the range, and is the only model to feature a hybridized version of the 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8.

On its own, the petrol engine produces 541 hp and 567 lb-ft of torque, with the E-Hybrid electric motor adding up to 134 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

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The Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid Coupé further exclamates the Porsche DNA running through its veins.

The Coupé emulates the iconic flyline of the Porsche 911, which flows consistently from the headlights to a seamless taillight strip, forming the undeniable silhouette of a true sports car.

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The Model 3 itself is a pretty revolutionary car, offering its currently unrivaled combination of performance, utility, range and price. The Performance model allows you to experience this at the highest levels.

With absurd acceleration, nimble handling, and a price well below the 6-figure mark even when optioned-out, the Model 3 Performance is set to sell a lot of units. The trim comes with its own unique 450 hp dual-motor drivetrain and has all-wheel-drive as standard.

Tesla recently introduced two performance-oriented packages with the Performance Upgrade and Track Mode V2, both of which are exclusively for the Performance models only.

The former adds bolt-on items such as high-performance brakes, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and lightweight wheels. The latter is a software upgrade which allows drivers to customize torque split, brake regen and stability control.

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The Tesla Model S is widely recognized as being the first true “tech car” on the planet. Above the “Long Range” trim in terms of starting price, the “Performance” model sacrifices a bit of range for an extra boost in performance.

With its mind-boggling figures, it is capable of doing 0-60 mph in just 2.4 seconds. Here we are in the year 2021 with “full self-driving capability” on the horizon for this model. An awesome performance sedan, an absolute beast.

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In 2020, Tesla announced that it would be producing an even more high-performance variant of its venerable Model S. Dubbed the ‘Plaid’, it would take the Model S into hypercar territory, increasing output to 1,100 with the addition of an extra electric motor.

It should be capable of 0-60 mph in less than 2 seconds and is likely to come with standard with a number of go-fast goodies such as Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, massive brakes, and even some aggressive aerodynamics.

Thanks to a bigger battery - which will be in excess of 100 kWh - the Plaid version will still be able to boast a maximum range of around 520 miles. The company expects the first deliveries to begin late in 2021.

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The fastest production car (0-60 mph) ever made. Period. When Tesla CEO, Elon Musk, promised a surprise during the Tesla Semi Unveiling Event, the world was not ready for what he had planned.

Capable of reaching 100 mph in just 4.2 seconds, this electric supercar is capable of completing a quarter mile in as little as 8.9 seconds.

Musk has hinted that the top speed will be above 250 mph. I wouldn’t be surprised at all as this car does come packed with 755 lb-ft of torque. Yes, you read that right. Expected in 2021.

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By harnessing the scientific principles of the electric motor, the Tesla Model X is the fastest production SUVs ever made. It comes standard with all-wheel drive, loads of storage and seating for up to seven adults, checking all the important boxes of the typical SUV customer.

Not so typical is the 778 hp and 841 lb-ft of torque it makes, thanks to a 100 kWh battery which powers all four wheels. Speed junkies will be able to cross-off a few things from their bucket list with the Model X capable of 0-60 mph in just 2.7 s.

This not only easily makes this the fastest SUV, but also one of the fastest production vehicles on the road, period.

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The Model Y Long Range is the current entry-level model in the range. It has better all-around practicality than the Model 3, particularly for a family.

Its extra height and room make it a very good option as a family car. As a performance-focused website, you know we would spend the extra money and get the Performance model - an additional $10k getting you a 3.5 second 0-60 mph time and a 155 mph top speed. Range is over 300 miles, which is class leading.

Need a small family crossover/SUV? Pick this.

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