Getting ready to order my first Taycan

[Aliatar]

Hi, I have been driving electric since 2013. Had a Tesla Model S 85 back then and got a Model S Long Range in 2020. Now I think I am ready to make the jump to the new Taycan. This will be my first Porsche as well. I still have to test drive it, but I have been playing with configuration options. This is what I have right now: PS478T83.

My main motivation to change is range and specially charging speed. But also I am a bit put down that the Model S has stopped improving and doesn't look like it is going to improve much more. I put about 110.000 km into the second Model S in a bit more than 4 years. We don't use it daily, but we do like long road trips and we also go back and forth to our beach house quite often (~500km. trip one way).

Any comments? Things I am missing or things that I should skip? Also, what is the typical wait from order to delivery. Thanks, any help really appreciated.

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[W1NGE]

Hi, I have been driving electric since 2013. Had a Tesla Model S 85 back then and got a Model S Long Range in 2020. Now I think I am ready to make the jump to the new Taycan. This will be my first Porsche as well. I still have to test drive it, but I have been playing with configuration options. This is what I have right now: PS478T83.

My main motivation to change is range and specially charging speed. But also I am a bit put down that the Model S has stopped improving and doesn't look like it is going to improve much more. I put about 110.000 km into the second Model S in a bit more than 4 years. We don't use it daily, but we do like long road trips and we also go back and forth to our beach house quite often (~500km. trip one way).

Any comments? Things I am missing or things that I should skip? Also, what is the typical wait from order to delivery. Thanks, any help really appreciated.

Factory order can be around 3 months if not specifying a Paint To Sample colour.

Spec:

Extended leather (too much plastic otherwise)

14-way seats

Bose

Colour coded door mirrors

Privacy glass

Standard matrix lights are good and may make the expensive upgrade questionable

360 panoramic parking cameras.

Sports Chrono
Drop the electric logo!

Colour choice is great!

Budget is the overall determining factor.

 

[4sCT21]

Oak neo is beautiful, nice choice.

 

[r553]

If you care about trunk height the Bose has equipment in the trunk under the rear parcel shelf.
Get electrically folding mirrors if not standard.
Standard interior has leather on the seating surfaces. If you have kids and dogs they may mar the leather seat backs. YMMV.
Rear axle steering makes the car easier to maneuver in tight spaces. The car is fairly large.

 

[KLHubb]

If you love great music, get the Burmester 3-D sound system.
If you love great handling, get the rear wheel steering/performance package

 

[DerekS]

Unless you're so wealthy the cost doesn't matter, I'd strongly suggest looking at used Taycans rather than buying a new one.

The depreciation is severe and there are big bargains to be had.

 

[SergeyIndy]

Consider the following as budget allows:

+ Leather Package as Standard has too much vinyl and plastic
+ 14-way seats that will come with Memory Pack
+ Sports Chrono that will come with GT steering wheel and steering wheel Heating
- Downgrade from HD Matrix as they are an overkill and will be expensive to replace if out of warranty
+ Bottom of rear view mirrors will be plastic unless you body color them or gloss black them
+ ACC unless you do not need it
+ Note that if you need ALK, you can only get it by adding InnoDrive that includes ACC
+ Bose as I do not think you will be happy with the Standard sound system

Please repost the code if you decide to update your build given feedback.

2025 models have much improved range, but I would let others based in EU comment if 500km is possible on a single charge, if that is your expectations. Charging speeds and dynamics have improved in the revised models especially in colder ambient temperatures.

The handling is on another level vs. a Tesla that you are used to, but no one pedal driving if that is something you may be expecting.

 

[Aliatar]

Thanks everyone for your replies. Let me go through some of the suggestions and my logic to see if it makes sense:

1. Used vs New. I understand the depreciation issue, but I am drawn to the Taycan precisely for the two features that the new Taycan improves: range and charging speed. I don't see so much of a motive to change from a 2020 Model S to a Taycan without those.
2. Range. We tend to drive on highways at about 140km-150km when possible. My Model S when new stated 567km range. Now it gives about 542km range. But those are not real range numbers at our usual highway speed. My rule of thumb is quoted range /1.5 - 50km safety margin, so about 300-350km in real conditions. For my most usual trip to the beach house (502km) that means one stop, which I would make anyways, and sometimes two if I do not start at 100% (I don't have charging at home). With the added range I can ensure that I do only 1 stop even when starting at 70%-80% charge and that the stops are much much shorter. My Model S top charging speed is 140kwh but often I get less on superchargers, specially old ones. And when I do get 140kwh it falls down quite rapidly. I am expecting a much better situation with the Taycan.
3. Leather Pack. I was reluctant to add about 4000 euros for the full leather package. I still have to go and test drive the car and I will take a look at the leather on the models they have at the Porsche shop. I am coming from Tesla, which I assume is a lot more plasticky than Porsche standard. Or isn't it?
4. 14-way seats. Right now I have 8-way and the seat memory option (370). Is the 14-way option really so much better that justifies the additional 1000 euros?
5. Sports-Chrono. I don't know if I get what's included in this package. Is it just the GT steering wheel and heating? I already got the heating alone. I read there is also the Sport Plus mode, Porsche Active Aerodynamics and battery temperature control. Are these important?
6. HD Matrix lights. I have seen a few comments to downgrade them. I like the option to keep the high beams even when there is incoming traffic and think of it as a security feature. Am I wrong? As for the guarantee, I am probably thinking about extending the guarantee, although I don't know what's the maximum time for that.
7. Rear view mirrors. Ok, point taken. 500 euros to get rid of the plastic.
8. ACC / ALK / InnoDrive. On the Model S I have Autopilot and FSD and I find I use it very little, about 10% of the time at most, and my wife never uses it. Now, would I miss it that 10% of time if I don't have it? Maybe I should get just ACC.
9. Bose. I am reluctant to get it mainly because of the space it takes on the trunk. Or is that space somehow not useful? Consider that one of the areas where the Model S is clearly superior is trunk space (744 vs 407). Anyone has direct experience to compare the standard sound system on the Taycan with the one on the Model S?
10. Rear axle steering. Got it already. Size of the car was one of my concerns (as is with my current Model S).
11. Electrically folding mirrors. I believe that's standard. Am I wrong?
12. 360 panoramic parking cameras. I believe I have that included on the Active Parking Support option.

Now, for things you didn't mention yet:

1. Taycan vs Taycan 4. I like the 4 wheel drive and think of it as improved handling (based in Spain, so not too worried about winter), but the RWD version has a bit more range. Also not sure it makes sense to go up to the Taycan 4S.
2. Wheels. I have gone for the Aero 21" ones. I wanted something aesthetic that did not reduce range.
3. Shaded upper front window. Would this interfere with automated highway toll systems?
4. Torque Vectoring. Did not include this. Do you really notice it when driving?
5. Thermally insulated Windows. I wanted to include these but didn't because of the impact on cellphone coverage and toll systems. Is that a thing?
6. Panoramic roof. I have read comments on defects on them and also on them getting the cabin hotter. Is that really an issue?

Thank you again for all your help. I really value current owners' experiences. New configuration so far: PSFBZUT8.

 

[W1NGE]

Thanks everyone for your replies. Let me go through some of the suggestions and my logic to see if it makes sense:

1. Used vs New. I understand the depreciation issue, but I am drawn to the Taycan precisely for the two features that the new Taycan improves: range and charging speed. I don't see so much of a motive to change from a 2020 Model S to a Taycan without those.
2. Range. We tend to drive on highways at about 140km-150km when possible. My Model S when new stated 567km range. Now it gives about 542km range. But those are not real range numbers at our usual highway speed. My rule of thumb is quoted range /1.5 - 50km safety margin, so about 300-350km in real conditions. For my most usual trip to the beach house (502km) that means one stop, which I would make anyways, and sometimes two if I do not start at 100% (I don't have charging at home). With the added range I can ensure that I do only 1 stop even when starting at 70%-80% charge and that the stops are much much shorter. My Model S top charging speed is 140kwh but often I get less on superchargers, specially old ones. And when I do get 140kwh it falls down quite rapidly. I am expecting a much better situation with the Taycan.
3. Leather Pack. I was reluctant to add about 4000 euros for the full leather package. I still have to go and test drive the car and I will take a look at the leather on the models they have at the Porsche shop. I am coming from Tesla, which I assume is a lot more plasticky than Porsche standard. Or isn't it?
4. 14-way seats. Right now I have 8-way and the seat memory option (370). Is the 14-way option really so much better that justifies the additional 1000 euros?
5. Sports-Chrono. I don't know if I get what's included in this package. Is it just the GT steering wheel and heating? I already got the heating alone. I read there is also the Sport Plus mode, Porsche Active Aerodynamics and battery temperature control. Are these important?
6. HD Matrix lights. I have seen a few comments to downgrade them. I like the option to keep the high beams even when there is incoming traffic and think of it as a security feature. Am I wrong? As for the guarantee, I am probably thinking about extending the guarantee, although I don't know what's the maximum time for that.
7. Rear view mirrors. Ok, point taken. 500 euros to get rid of the plastic.
8. ACC / ALK / InnoDrive. On the Model S I have Autopilot and FSD and I find I use it very little, about 10% of the time at most, and my wife never uses it. Now, would I miss it that 10% of time if I don't have it? Maybe I should get just ACC.
9. Bose. I am reluctant to get it mainly because of the space it takes on the trunk. Or is that space somehow not useful? Consider that one of the areas where the Model S is clearly superior is trunk space (744 vs 407). Anyone has direct experience to compare the standard sound system on the Taycan with the one on the Model S?
10. Rear axle steering. Got it already. Size of the car was one of my concerns (as is with my current Model S).
11. Electrically folding mirrors. I believe that's standard. Am I wrong?
12. 360 panoramic parking cameras. I believe I have that included on the Active Parking Support option.

Now, for things you didn't mention yet:

1. Taycan vs Taycan 4. I like the 4 wheel drive and think of it as improved handling (based in Spain, so not too worried about winter), but the RWD version has a bit more range. Also not sure it makes sense to go up to the Taycan 4S.
2. Wheels. I have gone for the Aero 21" ones. I wanted something aesthetic that did not reduce range.
3. Shaded upper front window. Would this interfere with automated highway toll systems?
4. Torque Vectoring. Did not include this. Do you really notice it when driving?
5. Thermally insulated Windows. I wanted to include these but didn't because of the impact on cellphone coverage and toll systems. Is that a thing?
6. Panoramic roof. I have read comments on defects on them and also on them getting the cabin hotter. Is that really an issue?

Thank you again for all your help. I really value current owners' experiences. New configuration so far: PSFBZUT8.

Charging speed should be treated with a pinch of salt and the max speed is determined by many variables that you have no control over. The J1.1 can charge up to 270kW and the J1.2 a little bit more BUT the key difference is for how long you can charge at a higher rate.

Range increase is another pinch of salt moment aside from the obvious advantage of having 12kWh more capacity.

Matrix vs Matrix HD - read the specs both come with PDLS+ which maintains full beam when no street lights and above 40mph. Individual pixels light up road signs etc on both.

Sports Chrono adds an additional drive mode called Individual where you can programme your own settings. Push to pass cones with plus you get a clock / chrono on the dash. Again read the specs to get the fuller picture.

Bose adds a sub woofer to the hidden storage area which becomes slightly shallower as a result. You won't see or notice it.

All wheel drive (4) is preferred.

PTV you won't really notice when driving and is aimed at the more enthusiastic driver and models.

Roof issues have been addressed and covered by warranty. Increases interior heat for sure hut you can always precool the car remotely.

Thermal and noise insulated glass will help but not by as much as you think. If it were a real problem for cell signal or toll passes then it wouldn't be offered as an option.

The grey top tint shouldn't impact either but you probably won't need it any way.

 

[Aliatar]

Hey thanks again.

Changed the configuration: PSCQS250.

Basically:

- HD Matrix Lights
- Panoramic roof
- Aero 21" Wheels
- Steering Wheel Heating

+ Full leather black / bordeaux red
+ Turbo Sport Aero 20" Wheels
+ Rear View Mirrors in car color
+ ACC

Better?

 

[SergeyIndy]

Hey thanks again.

Changed the configuration: PSCQS250.

Basically:

- HD Matrix Lights
- Panoramic roof
- Aero 21" Wheels
- Steering Wheel Heating

+ Full leather black / bordeaux red
+ Turbo Sport Aero 20" Wheels
+ Rear View Mirrors in car color
+ ACC

Better?

Let me expand on some more of the options feedback.

Taycan vs. Taycan 4: I think Taycan 4 is the way to go as you are benefiting from a more balanced weight front to rear plus both motors can regen so I would expect the range to be pretty even between the two. I actually did not realize until someone pointed out that RWD models cannot regen from the front axle obviously by having no motor there, so physical brakes will have to work harder.

14-way seats: I see that your latest code has 8-way. I just do not want you to regret that decision. 14-ways in my view are the best seats for the Taycan as they provide perfect support (including adjustable head rests) for sporty driving and long distance cruising and are worth the premium as this is where you are going to be EVERY time you drive. My other case for this is that I do not know anyone who stayed with the 8-ways as they just do not belong in the Taycan.

4+1 Seat Option: Are you sure you need this since you cannot fit anyone in that middle seat but may be a small child for a short drive.

Sports Chrono may be an overkill for what appears to be a base car that you are building, but it does include desirable GT steering wheel with heating in the price and then you get Sport Plus mode to get the maximum performance stated for the trim.

Bose does not take much trunk space. I have BM and even then I have no issues with my trunk space, but the Bose in the Taycan sounds better than in any other trim I tried (Cayenne, Macan ICE, Macan EV) so to me this is a great value to have in the Taycan as it just sounds great.

Thermal Glass benefit to me is that it is thicker and more solid on frameless doors and that is the reason I got it. I do not have any issues with reception but it clearly states that reception can be impacted but there is a designated spot to mount a toll reader so there is no impact on that.

Panoramic Roof does not impact heat in the cabin to my knowledge as it is heavily tinted but without the car looks better, but the rain makes more noise than with the glass roof as I drove both and can confirm that metal roof gets pretty loud in the rain. Front Passengers do not benefit from the Pano Roof but Rear Passengers do, making the cabin more open given very low-slung profile of the car.

 

[Aliatar]

@SergeyIndy thanks for going through this again. Let me go through the things I haven't selected:

14-way seats. Since I have separately selected the seat memory option, the only advantage I see here is the adjustable head rest. 14 settings is obviously better than 8-way and worse than 18. But are there other differences? Is the shape of the seats different (other than the head rest)? One thing I don't see that I have on the Model S is the ability to link a seat memory to a key, so the car changes into your configuration if you open with your key.

4+1 Seats. This is an area were I am missing compared to the Model S. Less back seat space and no realistic 5th seat. However, I do need the seat belt in the middle so we can secure our cat's travel bag when both my daughters are also travelling with us (which realistically is going to be a low percentage of the time, but will still happen sometimes).

Sports Chrono. Granted I am not going for the top performance and I am not gonna drive it on a race track. The improved steering wheel is nice and heating is really not a concern in my weather. Now, what comes with the Sport Plus mode? Push to pass? Do you actually get more power with it?

Bose. Trunk space is another area where I am very sensitive as I clearly loose compared with the Model S. The under the trunk space on the Tesla easily fits a carry on hard suitcase with space to spare. Here I believe it is a lot more limited, but I would like to understand how much space is there that I would be loosing with the subwoofer.

Thermal Glass. Still in doubt, might get it.

Panoramic roof. We estimate most of the time we will be driving with no one in the back, so we will skip this one.

 

[SergeyIndy]

14-way seats are shaped differently as well since they have more seat adjustments, the best way is to look in the online manual to see what these adjustments do, but in short 8-way seat is a one piece seat and 14-ways consist of many parts that move around the seat for adjustment.

Bose space: I think the best thing to do is to ask forum members to provide you with pictures with Base sound system vs. Bose so you can see how much space you are gaining without Bose.

Sports Chrono (SC) gives you Launch Control and Push to Pass with the PB+ battery. The numbers in peak kW are show below. The interpretation is the following, without SC you are limited to 380kW peak, however with LC you get 440kW peak, but you have to launch it from stand still which is of limited use, but Push with Pass gives you additional +60kW at a press of a button for the same peak of 440kW for 10 seconds, very useful when overtaking.

My view is that Push to Pass feature gives substantial benefit of power for not much additional cost since you are already spending on PB+ and not using it to its full potential.

 

[DerekS]

Sport Chrono is a must-have on any Porsche as it gives you the top tier performance.

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