Porsche Taycan 4S 2021 Review
Discover why the 2021 Porsche Taycan 4S redefines electric performance with blistering speed, precise handling, and everyday usability.
Porsche Taycan 4S 2021: The Electric Porsche Benchmark
The 2021 Porsche Taycan 4S marks a pivotal moment in electric vehicle evolution, merging the brand’s legendary sports car dynamics with sustainable powertrains. This all-wheel-drive sedan delivers ferocious acceleration, agile handling, and a refined ride, challenging the notion that EVs can’t match internal combustion thrills. Starting at around £83,580, it offers a compelling entry into Porsche’s electric lineup without sacrificing performance.
Powertrain and Performance Excellence
At the heart of the Taycan 4S lies a dual-motor setup, one on each axle, providing instant torque and all-wheel drive traction. The standard Performance Battery (79.2kWh) outputs up to 435hp, surging to 530hp in overboost mode with launch control. Opt for the Performance Battery Plus (93.4kWh), and power climbs to 490hp normally and 571hp on overboost, propelling the car from 0-62mph in 4.0 seconds. Real-world tests confirm this brisk pace, with consistent 3.9-second runs even on imperfect surfaces.
This configuration yields 640-650Nm of torque, ensuring effortless overtakes and corner exits where power seamlessly shifts to the outer wheels, mimicking mechanical limited-slip differentials. The two-speed transmission on the rear axle enhances high-speed efficiency, though downshifts are rare in daily driving due to abundant low-end torque.
| Model Variant | Power (Standard/Overboost) | Torque | 0-62mph | Battery Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taycan 4S (Perf Battery) | 435hp / 530hp | 640Nm | 4.0s | 79.2kWh |
| Taycan 4S (Perf Battery Plus) | 490hp / 571hp | 650Nm | 4.0s | 93.4kWh |
Chassis Dynamics and Ride Quality
Despite its 2,220kg curb weight, the Taycan 4S handles with sports car poise. Standard adaptive air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) delivers compliant comfort on highways and precise control on twisty roads. Body roll is minimal, thanks to advanced anti-roll systems, and the chassis remains planted over bumps and high-speed curves.
Steering is linear and communicative, heavier than a 911 but with excellent feedback. Rear-wheel steering enhances maneuverability, reducing the turning circle while maintaining stability. In Sport Plus mode, the setup shines on B-roads, with deft body control and impressive mid-corner balance. The ride absorbs imperfections well, even in firmer settings, proving Porsche’s engineering prowess.
- Highway Stability: Remains composed at 50+ mph over undulating ramps.
- City Agility: Low center of gravity and suspension lift aid urban navigation.
- Track Potential: Exceptional traction and confidence-inspiring cornering.
Battery Range and Efficiency
Quoted at 283 miles with the larger battery, real-world figures vary. Highway testing yielded 65 MPGe and up to 180 miles of range, trailing some rivals like the Tesla Model S but prioritizing driving engagement over pure efficiency. Regenerative braking is smooth and adjustable, with one-pedal driving mimicking ICE feel while preserving brake pads.
Charging is rapid: DC up to 270kW fills 5-80% in under 30 minutes. Owners report seamless integration into daily routines, with the low-slung battery placement enhancing handling without compromising practicality.
Interior Design and Technology
Porsche’s cabin exudes quality with clean lines, precise shutlines, and premium materials. The driver-focused cockpit features a 16.8-inch curved display, analog gauges, and haptic controls. Vibrant screens and intuitive layouts set a high bar for EV interiors.
Space accommodates four adults comfortably, though rear headroom suffers from the sloping roofline. Entry/exit can be tricky due to the low stance, but once seated, support is excellent. Optional features like a 21-speaker Burmester system elevate the experience.
Design and Aerodynamics
The Taycan 4S’s silhouette blends Porsche cues—sharp lines, wide haunches—with EV-specific elements like active aero and flush door handles. White paint accentuates black trim and 20-inch Sport Aero wheels, creating a striking presence. Low ground clearance necessitates the suspension lift for speed bumps.
Ownership Experience After Months
Six-month owners praise reliability, with no major issues reported. Daily driving delights with effortless acceleration and composed manners. City scoot from lights and highway poise elicit constant smiles. Maintenance is low, though tire wear demands attention given the torque.
Compared to ICE Porsches like the 911, the Taycan offers superior stability and silence, though it lacks traditional engine drama. Versus rivals, it excels in fun-to-drive metrics despite middling range.
Pricing and Specifications Overview
Base pricing undercuts Turbo models, but options escalate quickly. Key specs include all-wheel drive, air suspension, and advanced driver aids. Fuel economy equivalents shine in mixed use.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Explosive acceleration, Porsche handling, premium build, quick charging.
- Cons: Heavy weight felt in some maneuvers, range behind leaders, high cost with options, challenging ingress/egress.
Who Should Buy the Taycan 4S?
Ideal for enthusiasts seeking EV thrills without compromise. It appeals to 911 owners transitioning to electric, offering familiar dynamics in a practical sedan package. Not for range-anxious commuters prioritizing efficiency over engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the 2021 Taycan 4S faster than a 911?
Yes, its 0-62mph in 4.0s rivals or beats many 911s, with superior straight-line repeatability.
What is the real-world range of the Taycan 4S?
Expect 180-250 miles depending on conditions, with the larger battery optimizing longer trips.
Does the Taycan 4S have air suspension?
Yes, adaptive air suspension is standard, balancing comfort and sportiness.
How does the Taycan handle its weight?
Advanced suspension, low battery placement, and torque vectoring make it feel lighter and more agile than expected.
Is the Taycan 4S reliable long-term?
Early ownership reports indicate high reliability, with minimal issues after months of use.
References
- Top to Bottom Review of the 2021 Taycan 4S (After 6 months ownership) — Taycan Forum. 2021. https://www.taycanforum.com/top-to-bottom-review-of-the-2021-taycan-4s-after-6-months-ownership/
- Porsche Taycan 4S 2021 review — Motoring Research. 2021. https://www.motoringresearch.com/car-reviews/porsche-taycan-4s/
- 2021 Porsche Taycan first drive review — EV Pulse. 2021. https://www.evpulse.com/reviews/2021-porsche-taycan-first-drive-review-it-might-be-the-base-but-its-still-a-porsche
- 2021 Porsche Taycan 4S review — Drive.com.au. 2021. https://www.drive.com.au/reviews/2021-porsche-taycan-4s-review/
- 2021 Porsche Taycan Review, Pricing, and Specs — Car and Driver. 2021. https://www.caranddriver.com/porsche/taycan-2021
- 2021 Porsche Taycan 4S First Drive Review — MotorTrend. 2021. https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2021-porsche-taycan-4s-first-drive-review
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