*Nov 24, 2021 Update: At the time of publication, I had mistakenly referred to the new wagon body-style Taycan GTS as a Cross Turismo model, instead of Sport Turismo. The Sport Turismo—though heavily based on the Cross Turismo—is considered as its own unique body-style within the Taycan roster. We’ve updated the article for correctness.
As part of their LA Auto Show appearance, Porsche has just unveiled their new Taycan GTS models. Available for both the sedan and new Sport Turismo model (which is based on the existing Cross Turismo body-styles), the GTS—as has been the tradition with other Porsche models—slots into the Taycan range between the 4S and Turbo trims. This also marks the first time that the venerable GTS badge will feature on an all-electric car. Porsche also took the opportunity to officially reveal the new 718 Cayman GT4 RS, Clubsport customer racing car, and Panamera Platinum Edition.
Much like its GTS predecessors, this places the new model in that “sweet spot” within the existing roster. What this translates to for the Taycan GTS, is a model that continues to provide an exemplary performance package without the need to opt for the Turbo models, the latter of which tend to come with an excess of features (and with them, a higher price) that the typically-pragmatic GTS owner would rather forgo.
Just a cursory glance at the specs and features immediately suggest that the Taycan GTS also strikes that perfect balance of power and handling, making it not only the better choice as an everyday car, but arguably for the race track too. Both the Taycan GTS and Taycan GTS Sport Turismo come standard with the 93.4 kWh battery and carry over the 800-volt architecture. They also retain the same dual motor all-wheel drive configuration and produce 590 hp, compared to 562 hp and 670 hp in the 4S and Turbo respectively. This makes the GTS models good for 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds.
Porsche also states that the GTS models incorporate the suspension setup from the range-topping Taycan Turbo S, though they’ve also done further tuning and tweaking in order to optimize the geometry for the models and their intended audience. This should make it the most spirted trim in the lineup in terms of driving dynamics, road feel and responsiveness, making for a Taycan that is more driver-focused and fun to drive than any other model in the roster.
The Taycan GTS models also distinguish themselves visually, with the latest trim coming standard with the SportDesign exterior package along with special GTS logos. The side skirts, rear diffuser and window trim are also painted in high-gloss black as standard. The Sport Turismo GTS also differs from the Cross Turismo models it’s based on, by having its rear spoiler painted to match the main body color, and most notably, there is an absence of plastic cladding over the wheel arches seen on all other trims. It also sits lower than its more off-tarmac-capable stablemates.
Other distinctive standard features include larger front rotors (390 mm) than those on baseline 4S models (360 mm), and the GTS also has a unique Race-Tex interior that’s similar to what is seen in other GTS-badged Porsche cars. According to Porsche, the Electric Sport Sound is now “deeper and louder” from both inside and outside the car. Also standard fare are Adaptive Air Suspension, PASM, PTV Plus and Sport Chrono Package. Features such as PDCC, PCCB, 21″ wheels and rear-axle steering remain as options. Also exclusive to the GTS is the optional “GTS Interior Package” which includes deviated stitching, unique embroidery and matte carbon fiber finishes.
As for pricing, the GTS sedan starts at $131,400 USD while the GTS Sport Turismo has a base price of $133,300 USD. Porsche is taking orders right now, with deliveries scheduled to begin in the second-quarter of 2022.
Considering the total package, I believe that the Porsche Taycan GTS and Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo models are the most impressive Taycan models to date. For most of us, this shouldn’t be surprising if even up for debate—after all, the GTS badge and the word “best”, have become somewhat synonymous over the past few years when it comes to Porsche cars. It’s definitely the one I would buy, if I had to do it all over again. It’ll also be interesting to see if Porsche will introduce other Taycan trim levels with the Sport Turismo body-style, which for now, remains exclusive to the GTS.
