2023 TAYCAN / MSRP FROM $86,700
THE TAYCAN IS THE PURE EXPRESSION OF A
PORSCHE ELECTRIC SPORTS CAR: STRIKING
PROPORTIONS, TIMELESS AND INSTANTLY
RECOGNIZABLE DESIGN, AND A PERFECT BLEND OF
PERFORMANCE WITH EVERYDAY USABILITY.
The Taycan is a different story altogether. Chapter one introduces a very refined and sophisticated body shape. It is fully recognizable as a Porsche. But as the 911 has modernized its silhouette, so too has the Taycan taken notes by getting wide, low, and oh so tough. The Fisker Karma was designed by Henrik Fisker and introduced in 2012. In my opinion, his 4-door design was revolutionary; however the company went under in 2014 for a lot of good reasons. The car was expensive, cheaply made, heavy, lacked performance, and advertised as an electric vehicle, even though you’d be lucky to get 30 miles on a charge before the 260hp turbocharged 4-banger kicked in — think Toyota Camry. The company was bought by Wanxiang, a Chinese auto-parts company. In 2017 they reintroduced the luxury car under a new name, Revero. Again, same problems. The latest
iteration is the new Karma GS-6. It is immensely better. But, thanks to Tesla, the market has moved from plug-in hybrids to EVs. You might think I’m digressing by discussing the Karma, but since 2012, nothing has been as visually stimulating in this market segment — until now. Tesla’s loyalists (self-declared “Teslerati” — you can’t make this stuff up) are quick to point out that the Taycan is no Tesla when it comes to range and speed. As a Porschephile in training, I can tell you that is not what I care about as I drive to the grocery store or business lunch. The base Taycan may not be as fast at 0-60 in 5.1 seconds, but jump up to the Turbo model and it drops to 2.6 seconds. I’m going to get to the grocery plenty fast enough. It may not have Tesla range, but with the Performance Plus Battery it can go up to 225 miles on a single charge. Remember, I said this is
chapter one. The Taycan does offer another body shape in the Taycan 4 Cross Turismo and Taycan Sport Turismo. It’s not for me, but it does offer more rear storage and backseat headroom. While it still has a great look, it is not as striking and titillating as the sleeker model. The Taycan is an electric car and thus it has limitations. Stuttgart’s first EV has everything Porsche is known for. It is fast, fun to drive, somewhat practical to own, and has an impeccable interior, plus it charges quickly. It is the most complete EV available in the galaxy. But where the Taycan really excels is in those body lines. She is an exceptional beauty who will turn every head as she pulls into any parking lot. She belongs with me, next to my ’82 911 Targa.
44 ALSON JEWELERS MAGAZINE
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