I’m sure you’ve all heard about the Gran Turismo game series, a Japanese video game developed by studio Polyphony Digital Inc., a subsidiary of Sony Interactive Entertainment, where the Vision Gran Turismo program, also known as Vision GT or even VGT has given us some of the most impressive concept cars, mostly fictional, but still utterly amazing to look at and imagine driving them … which you can do in the game naturally.
The first car that comes to mind is the 2015 Bugatti Vision GT, an absolutely stunning concept that was built as a show car to the 2015 IAA in Frankfurt, but let’s not forget the equally impressive-looking McLaren Ultimate Vision GT or the stunning Lamborghini V12 Vision Gran Turismo in her satin green livery, and now there is a new concept released.
Porsche has joined the ranks of the Vision GT program, aptly named the Porsche Vision Gran Turismo, this concept was created purely for the virtual world of the 7th edition of Gran Turismo to be released on March 4 2022 for both the PlayStation 4 and the PlayStation 5, “A vehicle designed purely for the virtual world opens up exciting possibilities for us that are otherwise heavily regimented in a regular design process for a series production car,” says Michael Mauer, Vice President Style Porsche. “Projects such as the Porsche Vision Gran Turismo are particularly valuable for us in the creative process. Further developing our clearly defined Porsche Design DNA and exchanging with designers from other industries is an important part of our work.”
Porsche’s Vision Gran Turismo might be very futuristic-looking, but she does boast some very recognizable features that make her undeniably a Porsche, like the typical proportion between height and width of the design, a very low bonnet with large, round wings alongside, while the pure style of the front with the air intakes remind us of the Porsche Taycan, and yes, the Vision Gran Turismo is all-electric in case you were wondering.
At the back, we find that typical narrow strip of lights, inspired by both the 911 and the Taycan, with a very aggressive looking diffuser, no exhausts as there is no ICE engine, but note how the rear fenders, especially the section behind the rear wheels is almost carved out of the body to create a dramatic look and exposes part of the rear tires at the same time, just an amazing detail on this concept car, I really like the vertical red lights integrated into the fins of the diffuser by the way.
On the inside, the Porsche style is continued with a curved hologram display that seems to float in the thin air above the very special steering wheel, because the seats are placed so low into the body you just feel the dynamics at play, even standing still, the inside is created from carbon fiber and titanium to reduce weight and increase performance in one go, Porsche used entirely vegan materials in the concept car.
“The appeal of a Porsche comes from its purist design,” says Kazunori Yamauchi, President, Polyphony Digital. “And in terms of engineering expertise, both we and Porsche follow the same perfectionist philosophy. We share the same passion for racing and are looking to the future of the car.”
Naturally, there is a strategic advantage for Porsche to expand into the vast gaming industry. “We can engage young and digital target groups in the place where their automotive dreams are born: the world of gaming,” says Robert Ader, Vice President Marketing at Porsche AG. “The partnership with Polyphony Digital and ‘Gran Turismo’ is a perfect fit for Porsche, because motorsport – whether real or virtual – is part of our DNA.”
Check out this amazing launch video on the Porsche Vision GT:
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After viewing the above video, let’s enjoy some more details of this amazing looking Porsche Vision Gran Turismo, there’s even a bespoke helmet:
December 5, 2021 / Comments Off on The Porsche Vision Gran Turismo
Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur is bringing back historic color shades on all Porsche models with the new Paint to Sample and Paint to Sample Plus option: “Unusual paint finishes have been familiar throughout the history of our brand and are an important differentiating feature,” says Alexander Fabig, Head of Individualisation and Classic. “With this offer, we are reviving cult-classic colors and expanding the extensive range of standard and special colors across all the model series by more than 160 shades.”
Custom-painted Porsches have been gaining popularity over the years, customers want to have a bespoke paint on their brand new car from Zuffenhausen, something that Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur is playing into with their Paint to Sample option, to accomplish this they’ve installed a brand new color-mixing system at the factory, allowing specialists to mix up the exact shade a client requested, from combining dozens of ingredients with milligram precision.
Each batch of paint is made for two paint pots, one that will be used for the bodywork of the new Porsche while the second one will be applied to the add-on parts, because the mix of aluminum parts, plastics, and carbon fiberglass, the mixture to be applied has to be slightly different depending on the surface that has to be coated … they even paint a comparison plate to reference against the finished car as a final inspection.
But Paint to Sample not only covers custom colors on special demand, but they also resurrected some classic shades from the 90s, color mixtures that are already known by Porsche’s paint specialists, like Maritime Blue as seen on the Porsche Panamera below, a deep, not too dark shade of blue that gives a classic but luxurious look to this four-door model, if you want to stand out even more a set of gold-painted wheels would do the trick.
Or how about Rubystar Red, a rather special shade of red with a more pink hue to it, which looks amazing on this Porsche Taycan, at least it’s something different from the large amount of white Taycans I usually see driving around over here, it seems some markets only order black, dark grey, and white, while other markets have a much more diverse taste in colors on their luxury cars.
And let’s not forget about Mint Green, I remember seeing a 911 in this shade with color-coded leather seats, very special looking and perfect in tune with the Nineties, perhaps today a more subtle interior shade might be a better idea, but I still think black seats with their centers in matching Mint Green would look killer on this car:
The number of different paint color options largely depends on the specific Porsche model and where they are actually built, when looking at the 911 and the 718 model the list of paint colors goes beyond 100, while on the Panamera, Macan, and Cayenne, the list contains a little over 50 options, while a further 65 colors complete the palette on the all-electric Porsche Taycan.
While it is possible to order your ‘Paint to Sample’ specific shade for your new car right at the local Porsche Centre, you’ll have to keep in mind an additional three-month delivery time compared to the basic color options, and if you really want something unique, you can opt for the ‘Paint to Sample Plus’ finish, which is limited to the Porsche 911, 718, and Taycan … but here there is just about no limit whatsoever on which shade you want, it all begins with the customer supplying a sample of his or her color to a Porsche Center.
And this doesn’t need to be a piece of painted metal, how about a bottle of nail varnish, or a pair of shoes to match, a handbag, or a piece of clothing … anything goes, as it is sent out to Porsche AG for an initial feasibility check, which can take a few months, before Porsche’s color wizards create the magic formula to be tested on a car body and add-on parts … but that’s not the customer’s car yet, the first application of this custom shade is done onto a test-body, at Porsche’s expense, and only if all tests are good and they’ve determined the details, such as layer thickness, will the customer’s Porsche be painted in this bespoke shade.
Such individual vehicles can only be ordered through Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, and not every Porsche Center will be a partner, at the time of writing about 100 Exclusive Manufaktur partners are present globally, these are specifically selected Porsche Centers who are specially equipped and have trained specialists able to provide advice on the Exclusive Manufaktur product range if you really want to get the best-of-the-best you can always travel to the heart of the brand in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen, but you’ll need a commission number before you are able to visit the HQ.
Just in case you are wondering about just how much something like this would set you back, here are some indications of price, the Paint to Sample will set you back between €8,806 and €9,877 depending on the exact model, while the even more intricate Paint to Sample Plus goes from €17,612 to 19,754, note that all prices are MSRP for Germany including 19% VAT, if you want to know the exact cost in your case you should really visit a local Porsche Center and inquire about this when ordering your brand new, bespoke build Porsche supercar.
November 29, 2021 / Comments Off on Porsche brings back classic paint colors with Paint to Sample
As part of the recent “Green Promise” that many car manufacturers are heading for, we all know that the most powerful, fastest, extreme, and best handling supercars and hypercars of the near and distant future will be electric. Bugatti Rimac has been formed as part of that promise, and Porsche has a major stake in the company through both its own investments and through its parent, Volkswagen Group.
The new 2022 Porsche Cayman 718 GT4 RS with the Weissach Pack option
This is not to say, however, that Porsche is going to quietly shuffle their engines that run on recycled dinosaurs into the storage room, however, not at all. Instead, they’ve turned around and let the GT department, their skunkworks team, at Stuttgart go slightly (read: completely) insane. The result is a $145,000 USD Porsche Cayman that carries a 4.0L flat-six engine from a Type 992 GT3 with the wick turned up to 11, has exhausts with the bare minimum of baffles to pass road legality making it the loudest Cayman ever made, and can keep up with a Lotus Exige in terms of handling.
Part of what makes the Cayman GT4 RS handle as well as it does is the specifically tuned aerodynamics that give it downforce without adding any more drag to the car
The new Cayman 718 GT4 RS, according to Porsche themselves at least, is not meant to be a track monster. It certainly can be, and there is a customer-spec version of the GT4 race car coming in the GT4 RS Clubsport, dedicated to track only use. This beast is meant to be an “experience,” a car that makes the driver become part of the machine, the two symbiotically working together to scream bloody murder out those nearly direct-port exhausts and catapult the car to the horizon as fast as possible.
Regular GT4 on the right, GT4 RS on the left. Notice the far more aggressive diffuser, “hang down” wing, and larger exhaust exits
Sure, it can lap the Nurburgring’s famous Nordschleife track in 7 minutes and 4 seconds. Sure, it has unbelievably good handling and its aerodynamics are machined and tuned to precision German standards. But by letting the GT department off the leash, they’ve also made, as Top Gear describes it in the video below, a car that is steeped in the highest levels of “engineering nerdery.”
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Our take? While there are still petrol-powered engines around, Porsche should let the GT department off the leash more often, if this is what results from the German equivalent of going mental!
November 17, 2021 / Comments Off on Top Gear Dives Into The New Porsche Cayman 718 GT4 RS
Late last month, we brought you coverage of Porsche’s confirmation that there would be a GT4 RS model after all. Not a whole lot was known at that time, though what was presented to us was more than sufficient in painting the picture of just how great of a car it was shaping up to be. The most noteworthy fact was that it set a blisteringlap time of 7:04.511 at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. This is some 23.6 seconds quicker than the718 Cayman GT4, suggesting that virtually no part of the car was spared the ‘RS’ treatment.
Now we know a lot more about the ‘how’ and the ‘why’, and Porsche has decided to provide those details to us as part of their participation in the 2021 LA Auto Show, alongside their unveiling of the new Taycan GTS models and the Panamera Platinum Edition. At the forefront of this is the GT4 RS’ engine. It was public knowledge that the powerplant would be a 4.0L naturally-aspirated flat-6 unit, likely a derivative (read: detuned version) of those used in current 992 GT3 and GT3 Touring. Porsche have certainly fulfilled these parameters. You can view a recording of the livestream event, below:
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What was much less expected or known, was how the confirmed power figures would tally up. There were some suggestions that based on the Nürburgring lap time, as much as 500 hp would be on tap for the 718 Cayman GT4 RS. At the time, that still felt a bit farfetched for a number of reasons, the most notable of that being it would mean the new range-topping 718 would be infringing too deep into 911 GT-level territory. However, that prediction has essentially come good, with the GT4 RS producing 493 hp (500 PS)—the same as a 991.1 GT3 RS.
It revs to 9,000 rpm and makes a bit less torque—331 lb-ft vs 346 lb-ft in the 992 GT3—which Porsche says is the result of a more complicated exhaust design, but that’s not likely to matter in the grand scheme of things. After all, the platform known best for its extraordinary balance and superb handling dynamics, is still good from a blistering 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds in its new RS-guise. That’s plenty quick. As we correctly predicted, the GT4 RS comes exclusively with a 7-speed PDK transmission, which further highlights the car’s race-bred intentions and stays true to the (modern) ‘GTx RS’ mantra.
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According to Dr. Frank Walliser—Vice President of 911 and 718 Product Lines—the GT4 RS will tip the scales at 3,120 lbs, making it around 49 lbs lighter than a similarly-equipped 718 GT4 with PDK. Much of the weight savings are the result of a healthy carbon fiber diet, with the front fenders, bonnet, door panels and other fixings now made from the good stuff. It will also sit 30 millimeters lower than a regular Cayman and now comes standard with a ball joint suspension system, replacing the rubber bushings used in previous models. The dampers, springs and sway bars have also been revised for more hardcore applications. All of these will afford the RS superior handling precision and a heightened connection with the tarmac.
At a glance, the biggest differences between the GT4 RS and the other models are ones that are visually telling, with the swan-neck rear wing being the most eye catching of its features. The rest of the body gets the typical RS workout, with streamlined underbody panels, a more aggressive (and adjustable) front splitter, a larger rear diffuser, side blades and huge air intakes, all forming part of this new equation. These of course, are all completely functional changes as well, with the GT4 RS able to produce up to 25% more downforce than the GT4, while also improving engine and brake cooling.
The new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS is also responsible for a few important ‘firsts’ in the history of the Cayman. Besides being the platform’s inaugural RS representative, it’ll also be the first time the Weissach Package is offered for the model, following the trend made popular by the most recent GT3 RS and GT2 RS. The Weissach Package for the GT4 RS will use the same formula which incorporates exposed carbon fiber exterior panels, titanium exhaust tips, magnesium wheels and a roll cage (in jurisdictions where it’s legal to have one from the factory). Center-lock wheels are also a debutant feature on the Cayman, via the RS.
Compared to other trims, there isn’t a significant list of other notable options to pick from—notwithstanding front-axle lift, and a unique Porsche Design watch—because the RS already comes comprehensively equipped, as anyone buying a car with the badge should expect. I was also pretty bang on with my prediction in terms of pricing, with the base MSRP of the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS sitting at $141,700 USD. Waiting lists are already looking long, relative to the number of allocations being given, so you should get your name in the hat now, if you’re interested in picking up Porsche’s latest—and arguably, their most impressive—RS model.
November 17, 2021 / Comments Off on Porsche x LA Auto Show: Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Specs Revealed
As part of their LA Auto Show appearance, Porsche has just unveiled their new Taycan GTS models. Available for both the sedan and new 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.
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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 Cross 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 426 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 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 Cross Turismo GTS also differs from other CT models 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.
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 Cross 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 Cross 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.
November 17, 2021 / Comments Off on Porsche x LA Auto Show: Porsche Taycan GTS Models Unveiled
At the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 17 Porsche will unveil their latest addition to the successful Panamera line up, the Platinum Edition, a top of the line spec available on either the Panamera (not in Europe), the Panamera 4, and even the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, while only in Europe you can order this Platinum Edition also on the Sport Turismo models while the Chinese market includes the Porsche Panamera Executive models, which come with an extended wheelbase, first deliveries are foreseen for late January 2022, pricing in Germany start at €111,945 VAT included.
This special trim level combines the discretion of the Satin Gloss Platinum design features with a vast array of standard equipment that’s optionally available on the regular Porsche Panamera, and as usual with a ‘package deal’, the sum of all options would be a lot more expensive than the premium for this Platinum Edition option.
For starters, the Platinum Edition comes with the must-have option of adaptive air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), but also includes automatic dimming exterior mirrors, LED matrix headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus), the large panoramic roof, and just in case, the Park Assist with reversing camera, If you opt for the E-Hybrid version an on-board AC charger with 7.2 kW charging power comes as standard too.
The Platinum-painted 21-inch Exclusive Design Sport wheels look amazing, and for that really intimidating look, Porsche fits black sports tailpipes and dark-tinted privacy glass while the side windows are trimmed high-gloss black, as a final statement the Exclusive Design taillights emphasize the Porsche Panamera’s dynamic elegance.
The Panamera Platinum Edition wouldn’t be complete without platinum painted details on the exterior, like the air vents behind the front wheels, same as the famous Porsche logo and Panamera model designation on the rear hatch, in case of the E-Hybrid, the logo on the side gets a platinum finish too, and if you’re not a fan of massive 21-inch wheels, the options list includes 20-inch Panamera Style wheels in Platinum too.
Opening the door will bring you into the lap of luxury, with the GT sports steering wheel complete with Power Steering Plus, Lane Change Assist, but the Platinum Edition also offers soft-close doors with Comfort Entry, 14-way electrically adjustable comfort front seats with memory package, heated rear seats, the magnificent sounding BOSE® Surround Sound system. Furthermore, the brushed aluminum interior package in black and naturally the Porsche crest on the headrests had to be included in this package too, and just as a final touch of class, all Platinum Edition will come with an analogue clock in the dashboard as standard.
November 15, 2021 / Comments Off on The Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition
With the introduction of the new Cross Turismo range of Porsche Taycan models, we’re now entering the second act of the company’s electrification strategy. The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo carries over the EV-platform and performance from its sedan counterpart, then amalgamates them with the utilitarianism of a sporty crossover / estate. What this means is that you can expect the same 800-volt battery architecture powering the car, with 93.4 kWh as the standard fare on all models (certain sedan trims could be had with a smaller 79.2 kWh pack).
While a number of the Cross Turismo models’ design elements bear an obvious resemblance to the sedans, they offer something very distinct as well. Aside from the glaringly obvious visual and utilitarian differences that are on tap, all CT models feature a longer roof which flows into its estate-like silhouette. This allows the CT models to have up to 43 cu. ft. of cargo space – compared to the sedan’s 14 cu. ft – plus an additional 36 mm of headroom for rear-seated passengers. The Cross Turismo also comes with significantly more ground clearance too, along with a “Gravel Mode” which is unique to the CT range.
Adding the optional Off-road Design Package gives the car an even more pronounced statement of intent; one that suggests that the Cross Turismo can go places and perform tasks that the regular, more sportscar-oriented Taycan cannot. The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is currently available in four distinct trim levels – 4, 4S, Turbo, and Turbo S – with relative performance figures and standard features across the range, mostly in parallel with that of the sedans. The gap in performance (and price) between the 4S and Turbo models suggests that there is ample room for a GTS model to naturally slot in some time down the road, but we will have to wait and see.
Available Trims
2021 Porsche Taycan 4 Cross Turismo
Base Price: US$90,900
Engine: AC Permanent Synchronous Motor
Power: 375 hp (469 hp w/ Overboost Power and Launch Control)
Torque: 368 lb-ft
0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds
Top Speed: 137 mph
The Porsche Taycan 4 Cross Turismo is the entry-level offering within the CT range, with its performance figures most comparable to the base rear-wheel drive Porsche Taycan sedan. It does get a boost over the aforementioned, thanks to the larger 93.4 kWh battery and all-wheel drive coming standard.
For those who have a budget in mind and are willing to forgo a bit of performance in order to partake in Porsche’s interpretation of fully-electric-practicality, the Taycan 4 Cross Turismo is a great choice priced at well under 6-figures before options.
2021 Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo
Base Price: US$110,300
Engine: AC Permanent Synchronous Motor
Power: 482 hp (562 hp w/ Overboost Power and Launch Control)
Torque: 479 lb-ft
0-60 mph: 3.9 seconds
Top Speed: 149 mph
The Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo is the second offering in the CT range, and costs $6,500 more to get into than its sedan equivalent. However, it is important to note that the 4S Cross Turismo comes standard with Performance Battery Plus (93.4 kWh battery) while the 4S sedan does not. Both models share the exact same performance specs when equipped with the 93.4 kWh battery, with the CT a smidge slower from 0-60 mph due to the extra bit of weight.
In our opinion, we feel that the 4S Cross Turismo offers the best balance of price, performance, and practicality out of all the models in the range. Where the Taycan sedan is more of a high-performance sports car, the CT is targeting the more pragmatic, family-oriented buyer; one who is more likely to find that the performance of the Turbo and Turbo S models go well beyond what is needed for the task at hand.
2021 Porsche Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo
Base Price: US$153,500
Engine: AC Permanent Synchronous Motor
Power: 616 hp (670 hp w/ Overboost Power and Launch Control)
Torque: 626 lb-ft
0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds
Top Speed: 155 mph
For those who want to enjoy their Taycan Cross Turismo for more than just family road-trips and running errands around town, the Turbo offers insane performance if you also fancy a weekend session at the race track or straight-line launches on the empty country backroads.
The Turbo generates up to 670 hp and can complete 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, transforming the car from reliable kid-hauler to practical supercar. Among other things, the Turbo will also come standard with more features, which include 20” Taycan Turbo Design Wheels and larger brakes compared to the 4 and 4S models.
2021 Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo
Base Price: US$187,600
Engine: AC Permanent Synchronous Motor
Power: 616 hp (750 hp w/ Overboost Power and Launch Control)
Torque: 774 lb-ft
0-60 mph: 2.7 seconds
Top Speed: 155 mph
The Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo is for those who desire performance without compromise and want to make the ultimate statement in a Porsche Taycan. While the practicality of the CT’s station wagon platform still remains, there is no doubt that it plays second fiddle to the performance credentials that only a Turbo S can offer.
Generating up to 750 hp, Porsche claims that the Turbo S Cross Turismo is capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds. However, a number of independent tests have been able to complete this feat in even less time, revealing hypercar credentials which are likely to overshadow the car’s inherent utilitarian qualities.
The Turbo S also comes standard with more equipment than any other CT model, with Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes (PCCB), Sport Chrono Package and Adaptive Sport Seats Plus (18-way) available at no extra cost. The car is also equipped with 20” Taycan Turbo S Design wheels, which can be upgraded to the 21” Cross Turismo Design Wheels for free.
Engine, Drivetrain & Performance
As mentioned earlier, all Taycan CT models will come equipped with the same 93.4 kWh battery as standard to complement the compulsory all-wheel drive. Each of the 4 trims (see above) unlock increasing stages of power as you move up the roster, with the range-topping Turbo S capable of some 750 hp and 774 lb-ft of torque. The 2-speed transmission also carries over and continues to be a stand-out feature amongst other EVs, with the platform allowing for improved battery performance and efficiency. Regardless of the power on tap, you can expect the CT models to exhibit the very same sensations and driving character as their sedan counterparts. Acceleration and throttle response are instantaneous in relation to pedal inputs, with power delivered ever so smoothly, even while at times brutally so, particularly in the Turbo and Turbo S models.
“One pedal driving” continues to elude the Taycan CT’s skillset; this is where other EVs – like Teslas – can almost be exclusively driven using only the accelerator, as merely taking the foot off the pedal is sufficient to bring the car to a stop in most situations, making the brake pedal more of a luxury than a necessity. I’m not a fan of this, but apparently many people are – frankly, I think it’s a good thing that Porsche has forgone this feature on their cars, as it would be an uncharacteristic one, to say the least. Electric Sport Sound continues to be a trademark on the Taycan CT (though optional on the lower models), providing artificial engine noises orchestrated through a sci-fi symphony.
Most critics believe that the Taycan 4S Cross Turismo hits the sweet spot in the range, with its 482 hp (562 hp w/ Overboost) deemed to be more than sufficient for what most buyers – whom have the CT shortlisted – would be in the market for. I definitely share this sentiment, as 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds is just fine for a family hauler. Nevertheless, the Turbo and Turbo S models showcase the true potential of Porsche’s fully-electric performance line-up, and are impressive machines which should have no problems wooing thrill-junkies who have the means to buy one.
Battery, Range & Charging
It’s the same 800-volt battery architecture powering the car, with 93.4 kWh (of which 83.7 kWh is usable) as the standard fare on all models (certain sedan trims could be had with a smaller 79.2 kWh pack). EPA range estimates are known to be excessively harsh compared to the majority of real-world results, and this trend predictably continues for the Taycan CT.
Here are the EPA range estimates for the 2021 Cross Turismo models:
Taycan 4 Cross Turismo: 215 miles
Taycan 4S Cross Turismo: 215 miles
Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo: 204 miles
Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo: 202 miles
These figures are almost identical to that of the sedan, and likewise, real-world results have similar variances from that of the EPA’s findings. Based on the former, you can expect about a 20-25% increase in mileage for each tier, meaning your Taycan 4 Cross Turismo for example, should get closer to 275 miles of range under normal and reasonable conditions.
Charging speeds are the same across the entire Taycan range, with the Taycan CT also able to boost from a state-of-charge of 5% to 80%, in as quickly as 22.5 minutes at a DC fast charging station. On my personal Taycan 4S sedan, I’ve determined this to be essentially accurate.
Chassis & Handling
Despite being an obviously bigger car, Porsche has impressively kept the weight increase of the CT compared to the sedan to just 25 kg, which was likely no easy feat considering the car’s overall 2,320 kg footprint. In addition to coming exclusively with all-wheel drive, the Taycan CT also has the three-chamber air suspension (PASM) as standard. In CT guise, this allows the car to be raised up to 30 mm higher off the ground than the sedan, while revised wheel mounts, strut supports and a self-levelling system were adapted for the more utilitarian purposes of its cross-over / estate platform. The double wishbone front with multilink rear configuration is also carried over.
The CT also shares the same 5 selectable driving modes: Range, Normal, Sport, Sport Plus and Individual. Exclusive to the CT is a new “Gravel” mode which Porsche says, gives the car more “Bad Road Capabilities” by managing torque distribution and other chassis behaviors to be more harmonized with roads of a non-paved persuasion. Back on tarmac, the CT presents phenomenal ride quality and comfort, blended with remarkable performance and speed, all the while being discreet and unassuming as it goes about it. It’s something you have to experience to truly understand the level at which this is all achieved.
In the most extreme test of the CT’s chassis and handling, I would expect it to perform not dissimilarly to that of any of the all-wheel drive sedans. I do have some of my own data to share after taking my personal Taycan 4S on to the race track, which is laid out in point-form below:
While it’s ultimately impossible to disguise the Taycan’s hefty weight and large footprint, the car has been phenomenally designed to handle it, and then some. The ultra low center of gravity – inherent from the battery’s weight and placement along the floor of the car – adds a new, impressive dimension to high-performance driving that is difficult to duplicate in a petrol engine road car.
Smooth, with no nonsense near the limit. The Taycan is a confidence-inspiring performer, that feels safe without being intrusive, and shows a wild side without needing to be unrefined. Those who believe that an enjoyable track car can’t exist without the ruckus of a screaming exhaust, clunky noises and a tooth-grinding suspension, will probably have their minds changed after driving an EV that has Porsche DNA coursing through its veins.
Combination of electric motor (regen) braking and actual braking (pads and rotors) is quite the dynamic duo in tethering the 5,900 pound Taycan. So effective is the former’s performance, that carbon ceramics would certainly be overkill for the street, while an argument can be also be made for the same (to a lesser degree, of course) on the track. Nevertheless, to squeak out the extra bit of performance in a min-max fashion, PCCB is obviously a required option.
The OEM tires – in my case, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 XL – are a good match for any type of environment, including the track. However, I felt that they were certainly the weak point of the car when it came to high-performance driving and without question, a set of stickier tires such as r-compounds (or these) would have a transformative effect on the experience – as they would in any vehicle transitioning from street tires to track tires. I suspect range would suffer noticeably with the increased grip, though.
PTV Plus and Rear Axle Steering (which came as part of the optional Performance Package) help rotate the car in ways that would initially be thought of as impossible for a 6,000 + pound machine (including driver), even with its uniquely low center of gravity in play. At your command is a level of precision and agility you would normally expect from cars which are mechanically much more nimble. Yes, electronics are at play here to make it possible for the Taycan to provide its “just point and go” capabilities, but as with any Porsche these days the car is remarkably tactile and driver centric.
Brakes & Tires
Let’s start with the Turbo S, which comes fitted with almost unnecessarily large and expensive brakes – I say ‘almost’, because if you do take your car to the race track, then cheers to that! Otherwise, the gigantic 420 mm carbon ceramic brake discs and 10-pot brake calipers will certainly be overkill for any road with a speed limit attached to it. This is particularly true when considering that braking forces up to 0.39G are achieved entirely by the electric motors – more than enough to come to a full-stop in everyday situations – with no pad-to-rotor contact being made until that threshold is broken.
All that being said, the regular steel brakes (or surface coated brakes) will do just fine for the 99% of situations that 99% of Taycan drivers will encounter. Regen braking can be toggled on or off by a switch on the steering wheel, though as mentioned before, one pedal driving isn’t part of the deal; part of what makes it drive more like a sports car, and more like a Porsche. I’m game.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 XL tires continue to serve as the primary OEM offering for the CT. That’s good and all, but it leaves many of us wondering why an all-terrain tire option isn’t also available from the factory, given the additional talents the CT has stored in its locker.
Design, Cabin & Amenities
Exterior
By nature of its body style and design, the CT offers more cargo space and a smidge more passenger room than the Taycan sedan. In terms of actual outcomes, this equates to an additional 30 cu. ft. of cargo space and about 36 mm of rear headroom (legroom is roughly unchanged). The CT is also 11 mm longer and sits 20 mm higher from the ground than its stablemate, while each are in their default ride settings. The aforementioned Gravel mode will lift the car an additional 10 mm.
Should off-roading or more adventurous excursions be more your flavor (or if you simply like the look, which is just as fine) then we highly recommend the optional Off-road Design Package which is available on all CT models. This package adds black lower body cladding which functions as debris-protection, while giving the car a more rugged, purposeful appearance. As the default, the package also has the car sitting at the higher Gravel mode ride height, but given that these settings can easily be toggled after the fact, makes it sort of a moot point.
Interior
With over 41 cu. ft. of cargo space with the seats folded down, the Taycan CT is sufficiently equipped to meet tackle most utilitarian demands, though competitors such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon manage a lot more with around 64 cu. ft. at its disposal. The extra-long roof doesn’t translate to any more legroom than in the sedan – or even that much more headroom, at just an additional 36 mm – but it certainly creates the sensation of a much more spacious interior.
Those who have already ridden in the Taycan sedan will otherwise note that the two cars are virtually identical inside, with a minimalist touchscreen user interface and control panel at the heart of the driver’s cockpit. Despite being an crossover / estate, the driving position continues to be low-slung and sporty-feeling, with front and rear visibility likewise providing more of a sportscar POV than that of an SUV. That’s fine, as I don’t think Porsche was ever trying to market the car as being the least cool of the Taycan siblings.
As is the case with any Porsche car these days, options – of which there are a plethora – can make or break your build-sheet (and bank account). Anything from an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel to a vegan leather interior is available as an option, and there is no shortage of selectable features to customize the car to one’s personal tastes and exacting demands. There are certain options that I think everyone should strongly consider though, such as the extra rear seat (to make it a true 5-seater instead of a 4+1), the performance roof box and heck, even the rubber floor and rear boot mats. On a car like this, it just makes sense to have all of those things on hand. At worst, it would only be good for resale value.
Verdict
supercars.net – 9/10
“These are still early days for the Taycan, its Cross Turismo derivative, and the EV ecosystem as a whole. If not for some of the challenges facing early adopters who have to contend with the likes of charging infrastructure playing catch-up in most places around the world, the notable effect that cold weather can have on range, and other distinctly-EV obstacles, it wouldn’t be farfetched to praise the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo for achieving perfection as an all-rounder car. It’ll have to get a 1-notch-down from being just that, until improvements in technology can adequately address such issues. For now, let’s hope we can move the needle up to a ’10’ sometime in the near future.”
What Other Experts Are Saying
Top Gear – 9/10
“The most complete fast estate available today. And perhaps the best electric car, too.”
It has been 12 years since Porsche unveiled the first 911 GTS version, the ‘Sport’ version so to say of the already incredible Porsche 911, and today they added this more dynamic version to the latest incarnation of the 911 supercar from Germany, and it comes with more power and visual styling to set it apart from the regular 911 Carrera, compared to the current 911 Carrera S and the previous-generation 911 GTS, this new version adds 30 PS to the glorious six-cylinder boxer engine for a grand total of 480 PS (353 kW).
Starting at €140,981, the new Porsche 911 GTS is available in five different versions, either as a Carrera or Carrera 4 in both closed Coupé version as well as a breathtaking Cabriolet, but also as a 911 Targa 4 GTS … yes, you’ve seen that correct, the Targa is only available as a four-wheel-drive variant, but you can get them all in either an eight-speed PDK transmission or as a seven-speed manual, the PASM, or Porsche Active Suspension Management has been fine-tuned specifically for this GTS version.
The impressive brake system from the Porsche 911 Turbo is fitted onto the GTS too, but if you really want to get the maximum out of the special 911 GTS edition you’ll have to opt for the Lightweight Design Package that is now available on this GTS for the first time, and that takes 25 kgs off the overall weight of this supercar that can be distinguished from the other 911 models by the elaborate use of black on the exterior and black Race-Tex microfibre on the interior.
Don’t let the GTS name fool you into thinking there is no turbo on this Porsche 911 version, the 3-Liter flat-six engine is still turbocharged and delivers 480 PS as mentioned above, torque comes with a maximum of 570 Nm, the resulting acceleration figures are 3.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h with the PDK transmission, and getting back to a full stop comes courtesy of the high-performance braking system from the Porsche 911 Turbo hiding behind center-lock wheels, 20-inch for the front with a larger 21-inch wheel for the rear.
All of the Porsche 911 GTS models come with the Sport Design package as standard, showing distinctive trim for the front bumper, rear diffuser, and on the side sills. When looking at the trim around the headlight, including the daytime running light surrounds, these are darkened for the GTS, while the LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) are standard too, however, the GTS does come with unique taillights.
When you would prefer lightweight carbon-fiber bucket seats, lighter glass on the side windows and the rear window, a lightweight battery, and the removal of the, mostly useless rear seats to get rid of about 25 kg of weight … go for the optional Lightweight Design Package, which also happens to come with rear-wheel-steering and some very nice aerodynamic touches.
If you don’t go for the more track-oriented Lightweight Design Package, the Porsche 911 GTS comes with Sport Seats Plus for the occupants with electric four-way adjustments, in front of the driver you’ll find a very nice GT Sport steering wheel and the famous Sport Chrono package, if you opt for the manual seven-speed gearbox, Porsche cuts 10 mm from the gear lever to allow faster gear changes … and just so you get the full acoustic experience, Porsche removed some insulation from the cabin so you can enjoy the sound from the sports exhaust better.
To make the experience complete, the central part of the seats, the steering wheel rim, the door handles and armrests, the storage compartment lid, and the gear lever all get the Race-Tex treatment, a very nice microfibre material inspired by racing, if you go for the GTS interior package you’ll get either Carmine Red or Crayon contrasted stitching, with this option you also get color-matched seat belts, GTS embroidery on the headrest, and the same shade used on the rev counter and Chrono face.
If you are looking to add one of these new Porsche 911 GTS versions to your garage, expect the first deliveries by November 2021.
June 23, 2021 / Comments Off on The new Porsche 911 GTS
Meeting personal customer wishes is an important part of the global offering from Porsche. The sports car manufacturer pursues this goal with its business divisions Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Porsche Tequipment, and Porsche Classic. The company now plans to respond to the wishes and needs of its customers to an even greater extent with a new and significantly extended range of products and services.
This includes various options for the individualization of Porsche sports cars, turning them into unique one-offs. Porsche is extending the personalization options for individual components directly in the Car Configurator, and is supplementing its offering for new, used, and classic vehicles with a “Performance Parts” range. As part of its Co-Creation strategy, the sports car manufacturer is also offering a new interpretation of the legendary Sonderwunsch program of the late 70s and will make it possible to design individualized one-off cars in the future – co-created by the customer and realized professionally by Porsche.
The range of individualization options for new vehicles currently extends from personal customer consulting during the configuration process through to the realization of limited small series. Through Tequipment, Porsche also offers numerous accessory products and retrofit options for individual customer vehicles. In the area of classic vehicles, Porsche is currently focusing on spare parts supply and factory restorations. The Stuttgart-based sports car manufacturer is now significantly extending its offering in all business areas.
“It is our goal to provide customers around the globe with even more accurately tailored and demand-based products within the context of classic, existing, and new cars, and to also offer a comprehensive range of individualization options,” says Alexander Fabig, Vice President Individualisation and Classic. “With the new offerings, we are responding to the great global demand for our products. Starting with new possibilities for individualization and personalization of individual components, through the additional range of Performance Parts, up to the realization of uniquely individualized sports cars, we have the right option for every customer.”
Simpler and more personal than ever before: individual enhancements
The Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur is successively expanding the range of products that can be individualized and personalized. Significantly more options will be available here in the future. Examples include various exterior wrap options, individual starting numbers, prints on the floor mats, illuminated door entry guards, and logo projectors in the vehicle doors. In addition, customers can choose to become designers themselves in the ordering process.
The personalization options include individual design elements such as colors, logos, lettering, and text. Using a digital application in the Porsche Car Configurator, it is possible to specify own designs for various items. For example, customers can have their own signature embossed on elements in the vehicle interior. The leather-covered cover on the center console is suitable for this, for example. The range is rounded off by personalized wraps and decals on selected exterior areas and individual paint finishes on the wheels.
New components for GT models and classic cars
Porsche will offer a large number of new components for new vehicles as well as used and classic cars under the name “Performance Parts”. The Porsche Tequipment range for new and used vehicles is aimed at drivers who are motorsport enthusiasts and amateur race drivers. Porsche Classic will offer new developments with a historical reference, components for performance enhancement, and also lifestyle products for both young and older classic cars. These will increase the performance of the classic vehicles or improve their everyday usability. With two show cars based on two first-generation Cayenne models, the Classic division is also providing a preview of possible additional individualization offerings with an outdoor and offroad focus.
Modern and classic sports cars as one-offs according to customer wishes
As part of its Co-Creation strategy, Porsche is now offering a new interpretation of its legendary Sonderwunsch program from the late 70s and will make it possible to design individualized one-off cars in the future – co-created by the customer and realized professionally by Porsche. The expansion of this offering is divided into the areas of Factory Commissioning for individual customer color and material wishes directly in production and subsequent Factory Re-Commissioning and Factory One-Off after vehicle delivery to the customer.
Whereas Factory Re-Commissioning is also aimed at implementation of individual col-ours and materials, the Factory One-Off is a systematic technical new development. Depending on the age of the vehicle in question, either the technical experts at Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur or the specialists at Porsche Classic take care of the implementation.
About Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur and Porsche Tequipment
Across all model series, customers can currently choose from more than 700 Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur options. The demand for individualization is increasing all the time. The level of vehicle enhancement is particularly extensive in 25 percent of all 911 models delivered worldwide: they visit the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur work-shops at the parent plant in Zuffenhausen for exclusive re-commissioning.
Sonderwunsch one-offs and limited small series are also produced in the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. Current examples are the Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition and a limited 911 special model which was produced on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Porsche China. Porsche offers numerous accessory products and retrofit options via the Tequipment division. The overall range of initially around 150 parts has continuously grown to now include more than 500 Tequipment options.
About Porsche Classic
Porsche Classic is responsible for spare parts supply and factory restorations of all of the brand’s road-approved classic cars. The range extends from a selection of various accessories and technical literature through to classic spare part supply and new editions of spare parts that are no longer available. Every year around 100 classic vehicles from the Porsche 356 through to the 911 (Type 996) and Boxster (Type 986) pass through the Classic workshop for accident repairs and other repair work. Complete restorations are available for all cars prior to the 996 generation of the 911, the Boxster Type 986, and Carrera GT. The current spare parts range includes more than 60,000 items. This is supplemented each year by an average of 300 new issues of spare parts that are no longer available as well as new accessory, lifestyle, or performance-enhancing parts.
Porsche is also successively extending its international dealer and service network with the Porsche Classic Partner program. These are existing Porsche Centres with specific expertise in handling classic Porsche cars. The network currently comprises 76 locations, including four Porsche Classic Centres.
May 16, 2021 / Comments Off on Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, Tequipment and Classic divisions
About 2 months have passed since the 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 was unveiled via digital livestream on Youtube. While the Porsche brass were by all means generous with providing the important details regarding their latest 992-generation model, the next move was to get the car into the hands of mainstream journalists; their respective megaphones would be used to propagate the message that the new GT3 is everything Porsche described it to be, and more.
Well, after being afforded ample time to become intimate with the car, that moment is now upon us. Today, some of the most renown and respected automotive media outlets published their findings for global audiences to digest.
Here’s what they had to say.
Top Gear
“It’s more apparent than ever that the 911 GT3 is part of a famous motorsport bloodline. Another phenomenal car.”
