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What are the most interesting and sought after Porsche Taycan variants?

Among the many configurations of the first-generation Porsche Taycan (2020–2024), a few standout variants have emerged as the most sought-after and desirable on the used and enthusiast markets. These models combine the right blend of performance, rarity, options, and overall character, making them the ones collectors, enthusiasts, and smart buyers gravitate toward.

Taycan GTS (2022–2024)

The Taycan GTS has become the enthusiast’s favorite—sitting perfectly between the 4S and Turbo models in terms of price and performance. It offers up to 590 hp, unique chassis tuning, standard air suspension, Sport Chrono, and the signature GTS design package. It’s widely regarded as the sweet spot in the lineup, delivering daily usability with sharp, Porsche-grade dynamics. Its scarcity and driver-focused setup have led to stronger resale values and growing demand.

Taycan Turbo S (2020–2024)

The Turbo S is the Taycan at its most extreme. With up to 750 hp on Overboost and a sub-2.7-second 0–60 mph time, it’s one of the fastest production EVs ever made. While expensive to buy and maintain, it appeals to those who want maximum performance, and its top-tier options (like carbon-ceramic brakes, rear-axle steering, and premium interiors) make it a showcase of Porsche EV engineering. Well-optioned, low-mileage Turbo S models—especially in rare colors—are increasingly collectible.

Taycan Sport Turismo GTS (2022–2024)

The GTS Sport Turismo combines the GTS’s powertrain with the stunning wagon-style body of the Cross Turismo, but without the lifted suspension or off-road cladding. It’s sleek, practical, and visually distinct, with added cargo space and unique proportions. Because it was only offered in a short window and appeals to both wagon lovers and Porsche purists, it's quickly become a cult favorite.

Taycan 4S (2020–2024), especially with Performance Battery Plus

The Taycan 4S is the most balanced, best-selling model in the range and, when properly optioned, offers 4S buyers a tremendous value. It delivers strong performance (up to 522 hp), AWD, and access to all the top chassis tech. Examples equipped with the Performance Battery Plus, air suspension, and Sport Chrono are highly desirable and much more affordable than Turbo variants, making the 4S a smart pick for drivers who want speed, comfort, and range.

What are the top five things to look for when buying a used Porsche Taycan?

When buying a used Porsche Taycan, especially from the first generation (2020–2024), there are a handful of key areas that can make or break the ownership experience. While the Taycan is one of the most capable and rewarding EVs on the road, it’s also a complex, performance-focused machine with early-model quirks and high-stakes repair costs if issues arise. Here are the top five things to look for when buying a used Taycan, with expert insight on what to check and why it matters.

1. Battery Warranty Status & Charging Health

Always check the status of both the high-voltage battery warranty (8 years/100,000 miles) and the 12-volt auxiliary battery, which has been a known weak point in early Taycans. The 12V battery failing can cause no-start conditions, so ask whether it has been replaced. Additionally, ensure the car charges properly on both Level 2 AC and DC fast chargers. Ask for a charging log or demonstrate a charging session to rule out handshake failures or software bugs—issues more common in 2020–2021 models.

2. Software Updates & Infotainment Stability

Many Taycan bugs—especially infotainment glitches, charging communication errors, and even HVAC quirks—were resolved through Porsche’s over-the-air (OTA) software updates. Confirm the car is running the most current software version (ideally a MY2023 update or newer). Test Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, navigation, rearview camera, and the various drive mode selectors. Glitches in the PCM interface were common in early builds and may indicate the car needs an update—or has been neglected.

3. Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) or Remaining Warranty Coverage

Factory warranty on 2020 models is ending (4 years/50,000 miles), so it's vital to check whether the car is still under coverage—or better yet, sold through Porsche’s Certified Pre-Owned program, which adds 2 additional years of unlimited-mileage coverage. The CPO route is strongly recommended for Taycans, especially high-performance trims like the Turbo or Turbo S, where repairs can be especially costly if not under warranty.

4. Options That Matter (Battery Plus, Air Suspension, Sport Chrono)

Not all Taycans are created equal. Be sure to check if the car has the Performance Battery Plus (93.4 kWh), which significantly improves range and charging speed—especially on base and 4S models. Air suspension and Sport Chrono transform the driving experience, allowing for better ride quality and multiple performance modes. Cars without these options can feel more basic and may have weaker resale appeal. Also look for Adaptive Cruise, 14-way seats, surround-view camera, and premium audio—comfort options that make a big difference day-to-day.

5. Pre-Purchase Inspection & Charging Port Check

As with any used Porsche, a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) from a dealership or EV-qualified independent shop is a must. Have them inspect the brakes, tires, suspension, and check for software errors. Pay particular attention to the charge ports, as there have been occasional issues with charging flap motors failing or ports failing to lock. These aren’t catastrophic but can be expensive and annoying if not caught early.

Porsche Taycan recent pricing and market trends

Market Snapshot: Pricing, Depreciation & What’s Happening

The Taycan has recently seen significant depreciation. For example, one data set shows a three-year resale retention at about 65% of original value — meaning a drop of roughly 35% over that period. Despite some earlier optimism, 2025 reports show that used-Taycan prices are trending downward. One source indicates average used-Taycan values have dropped ~ 7.0% in the past year alone. Some individual examples highlight steep losses: a 2023 Taycan reportedly sold for around US $54,000, though its original MSRP was over $100,000 — illustrating just how fast some EVs can lose value in early years.

Overall, the Taycan remains a high-performance EV with Porsche pedigree, but it also illustrates common electric-vehicle market dynamics: fast depreciation, heavy sensitivity to model-year, mileage, and demand shifts.

What’s Driving These Trends

Rapid evolution in EV technology & competition. The pace of improvement in battery tech, range, charging infrastructure, and newer EV models is fast — which means earlier EVs like the Taycan can depreciate more rapidly as “next-gen” alternatives appear. This contributes to depreciation pressure.

Oversupply and used-EV market softness. Some owners/users on EV forums suggest oversupply of used Taycans has “skewed the market,” pushing prices down faster than traditional gas-powered luxury cars might fall.

Luxury-EV + performance SUV = double whammy on depreciation. High MSRP, high maintenance/ownership expectations, and the unfamiliar territories of EV resale value all combine to accelerate depreciation compared to legacy ICE cars — even though the Taycan offers strong value relative to many peers.

Relative resale strength vs other EVs (if conditions are right). For buyers open to a used EV, the Taycan still holds up better than many EV competitors in terms of retained value — especially when comparing performance, build quality, and brand cachet.

What This Means for Buyers (and Sellers) — 2026 Advice

For Buyers: Used Taycans can be bargains — if you pick wisely (good battery health, reasonable mileage, full maintenance records), you could get a Porsche EV for far less than new-car prices. But treat it like a technology purchase: realize the steep depreciation — and evaluate whether the appeal (performance, EV driving, brand) outweighs the financial loss. Make sure to check battery condition, charging history, and any software/maintenance recalls — these matter more than typical mechanical wear in EVs.

For Sellers or Owners Considering Selling Soon: Expect a significant depreciation hit vs original MSRP, especially within first 3–5 years. The earlier you sell (before accumulating high miles), the more value you’ll likely salvage. Maintain impeccable documentation (battery history, charging, service records) — clean, verified history makes a big difference in what buyers are willing to pay. Be realistic about demand: used-EV buyers are selective, and competition is rising as more EV options enter the market.

What are the best Porsche Taycan options and extras?

When it comes to the Porsche Taycan, the right options can dramatically enhance both the driving experience and long-term value. Because Porsche offers a wide range of customization, many Taycans on the used market are spec’d differently—so knowing which options are worth seeking out is crucial. Whether you’re buying new or used, these are the most desirable and impactful Taycan options and extras, from a performance, tech, and resale perspective.

1. Performance Battery Plus (93.4 kWh)

Arguably the most important single option. The larger Performance Battery Plus is available on most Taycan trims (and standard on Turbo and GTS models) and not only increases range but also enables faster DC charging (up to 270 kW). In base and 4S models, this upgrade is a must for anyone concerned about long-distance usability or high-speed charging convenience.

2. Adaptive Air Suspension (with PASM)

Standard on GTS, Turbo, and Turbo S models, but optional on lower trims. This system gives the Taycan a truly adaptive ride, improving both comfort and handling. It allows for ride height adjustment, better highway cruising, and more dynamic cornering when paired with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). A huge upgrade for anyone who wants the classic Porsche feel, tuned for an EV platform.

3. Sport Chrono Package

The Sport Chrono Package adds selectable drive modes (including Sport Plus), Launch Control, a dashboard-mounted stopwatch, and sharper throttle and chassis mapping. It also enhances the car's overboost capabilities on dual-motor models. Sport Chrono is one of those Porsche options that enthusiasts look for—and it improves both performance and resale appeal.

4. Rear-Axle Steering

This option drastically improves low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. It’s especially helpful on long-wheelbase Taycan variants like the Cross Turismo or Sport Turismo, but it sharpens handling on any trim. It’s a sleeper option that makes the car feel more agile and is a favorite among drivers who want the tightest response.

5. Porsche InnoDrive / Adaptive Cruise with Lane Keep Assist

This is Porsche’s semi-autonomous driving suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering, traffic jam assist, and speed limit recognition. It makes long-distance driving far more relaxing and adds real-world luxury utility, especially on commutes or road trips. While not quite as “hands-off” as Tesla’s Autopilot, it’s far more refined in execution.

6. 14-way or 18-way Adaptive Sport Seats

The base Taycan seats are decent, but the optional 14-way or 18-way adjustable sport seats offer better support, memory functions, ventilation, and more aggressive bolstering. These make a big difference for daily comfort and spirited driving, and they help the interior live up to Porsche’s premium billing.

7. Premium Audio (BOSE or Burmester)

The standard Taycan sound system is acceptable, but audiophiles should seek out cars with BOSE (very good) or Burmester (exceptional). Burmester-equipped Taycans are rare and expensive new, but on the used market, they’re a great value find. Either system dramatically improves cabin acoustics and is worth it for those who care about high-fidelity audio.

8. Exterior Upgrades: LED Matrix Headlights, SportDesign, Panoramic Roof

LED Matrix Design headlights offer both enhanced night driving visibility and a sleeker look. The SportDesign package adds visual aggression with revised bumpers and trim. A panoramic fixed glass roof brightens the cabin and adds visual space—though it may slightly reduce headroom for tall drivers.

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