Porsche Taycan vs. Tesla Model S: Complete comparison 2026

Porsche Taycan represents a pioneering fully electric sports car from Stuttgart, which successfully carries the brand's iconic driving dynamics and premium craftsmanship into the zero-emission era. Standing against it is the Tesla Model S, a legendary American pioneer that, with its constant innovation, stunning range, and brutal acceleration, essentially defined the modern high-performance electric vehicle market on its own. Let's take a detailed look at how these two top-tier electric machines fare in a head-to-head battle and which one will be the better choice for your needs.

When looking at the exterior dimensions, it is immediately apparent that although both the Porsche Taycan and the Tesla Model S target the large luxury electric vehicle segment, their development philosophies differ diametrically. The Tesla, especially in its updated versions sold since roughly 2021, is quite a substantial car. With a length of 5021 mm and a width of 1987 mm, it takes up slightly more space on the road and in parking lots than the Porsche Taycan. In its standard coupe version, the Taycan is 4963 mm long and 1966 mm wide (older Tesla generations were 4970 mm long). The Taycan is thus nearly 6 centimeters shorter in most cases, which, along with its sophisticated rear-axle steering, gives it better agility. In narrow European garages, you will experience slightly less stress with the German car than with the more opulent American sedan.

However, a fundamental visual and functional difference between the two models is the height. With a value starting as low as 1378 mm, the Porsche Taycan is a true sports car that stays as close to the asphalt as possible. This exceptionally low body construction significantly lowers the center of gravity, which plays a key role in its top-tier driving dynamics. On the other hand, the crew pays the price for this sporty stance with more demanding entry. With a height of up to 1445 mm, the Tesla Model S feels much more civil and more like a classic touring cruiser. The higher roof of the Tesla ensures more comfortable cabin access and a better view from the vehicle. The difference in height thus clearly defines what you can expect from the car – Porsche maximizes an uncompromising sporting experience, while Tesla bets on more relaxed everyday usability.

However, the wheelbase has the greatest impact on actual passenger space. Here, Tesla again shows its size with a value of 2960 mm, while the Porsche Taycan offers exactly 2900 mm (or 2904 mm for the more practical estate version, called Cross/Sport Turismo). These extra 60 millimeters in favor of the Model S translate in practice into significantly more knee room for rear-seat passengers. For family use and longer trips with four adults, the Tesla appears to be a more spacious and generous choice. The Taycan, on the other hand, will better suit those who prefer perfect driving performance and are willing to make a slight space compromise in the rear seats.

When choosing a premium electric vehicle, everyday practicality and family usability play a key role for many buyers. Especially in the used car market, where models from around the 2021 model year represent a very tempting choice, it is important to realize that the approach of both manufacturers to luggage space differs fundamentally. The difference in body concept means that while one car offers absolute volume and easy access via a liftgate, the other emphasizes traditional sporty design and a fixed trunk. This ultimately prompts many customers looking for more space to reach for the estate (wagon) variant. The practicality of the trunk is simply a parameter that can decide whether a car stands up only as a charming weekend car or as a full-fledged daily driver.

The Porsche Taycan with the base sedan body offers a basic rear trunk volume of 407 liters. This space is sufficient for weekend shopping and luggage for a shorter holiday, but the smaller loading opening can be limiting at times. It is also important to remember that the more powerful Turbo and Turbo S variants have this value reduced to just 366 liters due to the installation of a larger rear electric motor. A much better choice for active users on the used car market is the Cross Turismo or Sport Turismo (estate) version, which provides 446 liters in the base (or 405 liters for Turbo versions). After folding the rear backrests, the space increases to a very usable 1,212 liters. All Taycan body variants then add a useful front trunk (so-called frunk) with a volume of 84 liters, which is perfect for storing charging cables.

The Tesla Model S from around 2021 (and newer), on the other hand, clearly dominates the discipline of luggage transport. Its liftback body with a huge tailgate hides a massive basic space of 793 liters, which in practice means room for several extra suitcases and completely trouble-free packing even for a longer family holiday. Thanks to the trunk lid concept, the Tesla is overall much more accessible, and once you fold the rear seats, 1,645 liters open up before you. With a bit of exaggeration, you can even fit a small cabinet or an unassembled bicycle inside, a task in which a classic Taycan sedan would struggle significantly. Of course, the Tesla also has a front storage space (89 liters), and with its total transport capacities, the Model S boldly competes even with popular representatives of the SUV segment.

Towing capacity is not a common standard for high-performance electric sedans, yet it can be a deciding factor for many customers in terms of overall practicality. The option to attach a tow bar doesn't just solve the transport of bulky cargo, but often provides invaluable space for several extra suitcases or the possibility of easily attaching a bike rack. When comparing roughly four-year-old used cars, a huge difference in the approach of both brands is evident. The Tesla Model S (in the specification available since 2022, including the top-of-the-line Plaid version) boasts very solid values for a sports electric car. The maximum braked trailer weight here is exactly 1600 kg, while the standard unbraked trailer weight reaches the legislative maximum of 750 kg. This capacity is perfectly sufficient for weekend shopping of bulkier goods as well as longer holidays with a lighter caravan. In contrast, the Porsche Taycan clearly shows its purebred sporting genes and absolute focus on driving dynamics. The standard Taycan sedan version is not homologated for towing a trailer at all; its official towing capacity is therefore exactly 0 kg. Although some specific configurations of the more practical Cross Turismo body variant may offer a limited ability to tow light trailers, the vast majority of common Taycan models on the used car market lack this option. The conclusion in this regard is very simple: if you require your car to not only provide crushing acceleration but also the ability to act as a family workhorse, the Tesla Model S is the clear and more practical winner, while the Porsche Taycan remains an uncompromising car focused primarily on the driver.

When choosing a premium electric car from the used market, focusing on models approximately four years old, the powertrains of the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S represent two completely different philosophies. While Porsche focuses on consistent sporting performance, advanced thermal management, and a pure driving experience, Tesla bets on absolute raw power, high powertrain efficiency, and uncompromising straight-line acceleration. Both manufacturers, of course, offer only purely electric power units (EV). A significant difference affecting the drive itself is the transmission concept – Porsche is one of the few manufacturers to deploy a two-speed transmission for better efficiency and pull at high speeds, while Tesla uses a traditional single-speed reduction gear and relies on the massive power of the electric motors.

Porsche Taycan (Y1A, 2020–2024)

The pre-facelift generation of the Porsche Taycan, which is ideally suited for purchase on the used car market today, features a wide range of powertrains with 800V architecture, allowing for repeated high loads and extremely fast charging. The base version (Taycan) relies on a single electric motor and rear-wheel drive; however, most used cars sold, including the 4S, GTS, Turbo, and Turbo S trims, already house two motors and all-wheel drive. A highly sought-after compromise is the Taycan 4S model, which offers a solid output of up to 420 kW and 650 Nm of torque. If you are looking for an uncompromising experience, the Taycan Turbo S stands at the absolute top. With Launch Control activated, it provides a brutal overboost power of 560 kW and 1050 Nm of torque, reaching 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds.

(Note: Stated maximum power outputs represent values in Overboost mode when using Launch Control and depend on the installed battery capacity)

Tesla Model S (1st Generation, focused on 2019–2023 versions)

Although the Tesla Model S has an exceptionally long history on the market and the database contains many older designations (such as 60, 70D, 85D, or 90D), from the perspective of the current market for nearly-new used cars, models produced from roughly 2019 onwards make the most sense. Specifically, these are the "Raven" powertrains (Maximum Range and Performance versions) and the revolutionary "Palladium" architecture (Long Range / base version and Plaid), all of which now rely exclusively on all-wheel drive. Even the "sensible" Maximum Range / Long Range choice boasts an incredible output of around 500 kW, outclassing the vast majority of road production. However, the real revolution is the Model S Plaid, which introduced a tri-motor layout to the range. A system output exceeding 750 kW (1020 hp) and a crushing 1420 Nm of torque make the Plaid a machine that breaks the 100 km/h barrier in less than 2.1 seconds.

(Note: Historical and low-capacity models from the beginning of production are not included in the table, as they are no longer relevant for buyers in the context of an approximately four-year-old used car)

Overall Powertrain Evaluation:

• For enthusiastic and sport-oriented drivers who value handling in corners and the car's ability to repeatedly perform full acceleration without power fading, the Porsche Taycan is the better partner.
• Conversely, if you are a traveler covering long distances, looking for technological sophistication and longing for dominant performance at highway speeds, the Tesla Model S is a much more logical choice.

Choosing the right powertrain is key to long-term satisfaction, especially with premium electric vehicles, where the ideal balance between range, charging speed, and reliability is at stake. While the Porsche Taycan, as the first-ever production car, brought innovative 800V architecture and a unique two-speed gearbox on the rear axle for maximum dynamics even at high speeds, the Tesla Model S relies on phenomenal aerodynamic efficiency and ingenious battery management software. Both manufacturers approach electric drive differently, which is why we have selected versions for the used car market (roughly 4 years old) that, based on real owners' experiences, represent the most sensible choice in terms of operating costs and mechanical durability.

For the Porsche Taycan, we recommend: 4S Performance Battery Plus, 420 kW

The 4S version with the Performance Battery Plus package (usable capacity 83.7 kWh), produced between 2020 and 2024, is the absolute pinnacle of common sense in the pre-facelift Taycan lineup. This model (now replaced in this form by the new generation) offers a breathtaking output of 420 kW (571 hp) in overboost mode.

• Why it's the best choice: Compared to the base single-axle drive versions, the 4S provides much better traction and stability thanks to its two electric motors. Compared to the more expensive Turbo and Turbo S versions, however, it has significantly lower consumption and offers the best real-world range of the entire model range at that time.
• Technical advantages: The battery with 800V architecture handles a peak charging power of up to 270 kW, which means recharging from 5 to 80% in less than 23 minutes at ultra-fast stations. Furthermore, the two-speed gearbox at the rear ensures that the car does not lose pull even at highway speeds above 150 km/h.
• Risks and what to watch out for: For used cars around four years old, carefully check the condition of the chassis. The Taycan weighs over 2.2 tons, and if the previous owner used the full power for dynamic driving on broken backroads, the control arms and air suspension bushings may be prematurely worn (manifesting as squeaking and dull thumps when driving over bumps). A known weakness of the early model years was also the on-board AC charger (the charger for home wallboxes); verify via diagnostics or service history if it has already been replaced under warranty.
• Who it's for: It is an ideal car for drivers who enjoy a dynamic and sporty driving style on backroads, while also needing a premium mile-muncher with very fast charging stops.

For the Tesla Model S, we recommend: Maximum Range, 417 kW

For used cars around four years old (turn of 2020 and 2021), the best choice is the Maximum Range version (also known as Long Range with the "Raven" code name). It is important to mention that there was a delivery hiatus in Europe in 2022 due to the transition to an entirely new generation (Palladium), so cars from 2019–2021 from the Maximum Range generation are currently the most affordable and mechanically refined used cars from the previous era on the secondary market.

• Why it's the best choice: The "Raven" variant brought a major revolution under the hood. The front asynchronous motor was replaced by a much more efficient permanent magnet synchronous motor (borrowed from the Model 3). The output of roughly 417 kW (567 hp) is perfectly sufficient, and thanks to its efficiency, the car commonly manages a real highway range of over 450 km on a single charge.
• Technical advantages: Tesla excels with its consumption curve in normal operation, where it can move with values around 17-18 kWh / 100 km outside the city, which is a fantastic result for a five-meter limousine. The adaptive air suspension in this version received new software and is more comfortable than in older generations.
• Risks and what to watch out for: The biggest ailment of these powerful versions is the front half-shafts. During inspection, request a test drive, set the air suspension to a higher position, and accelerate hard from a standstill. If you feel strong vibrations from the front axle, the half-shafts are due for replacement (the known "half-shaft shudder"). Also, check the tightness of the air bellows – the car should not sink to the ground overnight. Ensure that the central display does not suffer from yellowing edges (a common cosmetic defect).
• Who it's for: A perfect choice for tech enthusiasts and drivers traveling long distances across Europe. The perfect integration of the Supercharger network makes it a worry-free electric car for family vacations and frequent business trips.

When comparing purely electric vehicles, such as the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S, it is essential to take into account the vast difference between official laboratory values (determined according to the WLTP standard) and actual consumption in real-world traffic. Automakers often provide very optimistic figures, but driving dynamics, weather effects, the resistance of wide tires, and highway speeds significantly increase these values. To get the most accurate picture possible, we analyzed user data from the well-known independent portal Spritmonitor.de. We focused primarily on generations and motorizations from roughly 2020 to 2024, which are currently the most sought-after on the market for approximately four-year-old used cars.

When interpreting this data, clear trends are evident, revealing the different approaches of the two automakers. The Tesla Model S clearly dominates in terms of overall energy efficiency. Its iconic teardrop-shaped aerodynamic profile and long-standing technological lead in electric motor efficiency mean that even older versions can drive with an average consumption below 19 kWh/100 km. In contrast, the Porsche Taycan was created with a completely different philosophy – the priority here was uncompromising sporty driving dynamics and the ability to repeatedly deliver extreme performance without the system overheating. This takes its toll. Even the base rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version of the Taycan shows higher consumption than the brutally powerful tri-motor Tesla Model S Plaid. For the top-of-the-line Porsche Taycan Turbo S, it is not uncommon for average consumption during more spirited driving to easily approach or exceed the 24.5 kWh/100 km mark.

For the average user, these facts result in quite fundamental differences in daily life with the car. If you are a driver who spends hours on long highway routes and uses the car primarily for comfortable long-distance travel, the Tesla Model S is the more rational choice from a consumption perspective. Lower consumption not only slightly reduces charging costs but, above all, guarantees a longer real-world range, which means fewer stops. On the other hand, for those interested in the Taycan, higher consumption may not necessarily be an obstacle. Porsche successfully compensates for this difference on long journeys with its advanced 800V architecture. If you find an adequately powerful charging station, the Taycan can replenish energy significantly faster than its Tesla competition.

While the Tesla Model S clearly takes the victory for maximum efficiency and technological sophistication of the powertrain, Porsche Taycan owners are more than happy to pay for a little extra energy if it means genuine sports DNA and the unrivaled driving experience typical of the Stuttgart brand.

When buying approximately four-year-old premium electric vehicles, such as the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S, depreciation plays a massive role. Both vehicles lost a significant portion of their original value in the first few years, making them very attractive choices today for those interested in a used luxury car without having to pay astronomical list prices.

Porsche Taycan (2020–2022 Generation)

The Porsche Taycan entered the market with a premium price tag that has dropped significantly after roughly four years of operation on the used car market. Depreciation is common for luxury German cars, and it applies doubly to pioneering electric vehicles.

• Base versions (Taycan and Taycan 4S): Prices for these used cars on the market today start at more favorable values, roughly around €53,000 to €66,000.
• Top-tier powertrains (Turbo and Turbo S): Models whose new list price easily exceeded the €164,000 mark can now be purchased as roughly four-year-old used cars in the range of €74,000 to €115,000. For these vehicles, the level of optional equipment, which was very extensive for Porsche, plays a crucial role.

Tesla Model S (2021–2022 Generation)

For the Tesla Model S, the 2021 and 2022 model years are very specific because it was during this period that a major update (known as the "Palladium" refresh) hit the market, bringing a redesigned interior with a horizontal display and the revolutionary Plaid version.

• Long Range / Dual Motor models: For used long-range versions from this period, the price range is approximately from €41,000 to €57,000. Models from before the aforementioned facelift are significantly cheaper, while the improved versions hold their value substantially better.
• Tesla Model S Plaid: The tri-motor flagship with over a thousand horsepower represents the most expensive option from this generation. For approximately four-year-old models, prices on the secondary market typically range between €62,000 and €76,000.

Overview of Estimated Used Car Prices (approx. 4-year-old vehicles)

Note: The final price of a specific unit always strongly depends on the actual mileage, maintenance history (e.g., battery degradation rate), and the specific configuration of the vehicle.

In terms of safety, both cars boast a maximum five-star rating in tests by the independent organization Euro NCAP. However, when comparing these results, it is crucial to take into account the context and the year of testing itself. Euro NCAP protocols are constantly evolving and becoming stricter over time, which means that percentage ratings from different years cannot be directly and equally compared. Newer tests place much greater emphasis on sophisticated active safety, more complex frontal impact simulations, advanced cyclist detection, and accident prevention at complex intersections.

The Porsche Taycan underwent crash tests in 2019, where it comfortably earned the full five stars. At the time of testing, the car demonstrated an extraordinary level of passive safety, thanks to its very rigid body structure and ideally distributed weight due to the low-mounted massive battery module. Although the Taycan's structural qualities are unquestionable, its rating was established before the introduction of today's much stricter standards. Modern scenarios such as crossing paths at intersections or the latest generation of collision avoidance assistants for pedestrians in poor visibility were not evaluated, which is reflected in a more modest percentage score for the protection of vulnerable road users and safety assistants.

The Tesla Model S (represented by the newer generation Long Range and Plaid variants), on the other hand, underwent evaluation in 2022, under significantly stricter and more comprehensive rules. The car achieved phenomenal results and received the prestigious "Best in Class" award (Best in the Executive Car class) that year. It recorded extraordinary values across all categories, but showed absolute dominance particularly in the evaluation of safety assistance systems, where it earned a staggering 98% thanks to its advanced camera system. Testing confirmed its excellent ability to detect cyclists, reliably prevent accidents at intersections, and effectively correct risky driving situations according to the latest and strictest benchmarks.

As a result, both electric vehicles offer an exceptionally safe construction comparable to the absolute automotive top tier. However, if as a used car buyer you are looking for the most modern and comprehensive safety system with perfect accident prevention, the Tesla Model S clearly comes out on top in this comparison. Its active safety systems have undergone a much more demanding and up-to-date approval process, giving it an undeniable technological advantage in the context of today's safety standards.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers much more than just basic electric mobility, with both cars taking their own very distinctive approach to added value. While Porsche focuses on a purist driving experience and mechanical perfection, Tesla bets on radical technological innovation and software dominance.

Porsche Taycan: Uncompromising Dynamics and Technological Purism

At Porsche, every element is designed so that even a purely electric model loses none of the brand's sporting DNA. The equipment and clever solutions here focus primarily on performance, handling, and driver ergonomics.

• Revolutionary 800V architecture: The Taycan was one of the first production vehicles to bring an 800-volt system. In practice, this means significantly faster charging (with power up to 270 kW), less component heating, and thinner wiring, which saves weight. At compatible stations, you can gain a range of another 100 kilometers in just five minutes.
• Unique two-speed transmission: Unlike most electric vehicles that use a single gear, the Taycan has an innovative two-speed transmission on the rear axle. The first gear ensures brutal acceleration from a standstill, while the second gear with a longer ratio guarantees high efficiency and power reserves at high highway speeds.
• Curved display and driver orientation: The instrument cluster consists of a 16.8-inch curved display that frames the driver's field of vision and brings a modern interpretation of classic Porsche dials. For the passenger, an optional separate display is also available, allowing them to control navigation or media without distracting the driver.
• Adaptive chassis and stabilization: Most used models feature three-chamber air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and optionally rear-axle steering. Thanks to this, the car can mask its high weight and offers agility comparable to 911 models.
• Sustainability without losing luxury: The Taycan first introduced the option of an interior completely free of animal leather. Special Race-Tex material (made of microfibers) and recycled plastics provide not only an ecological alternative but also excellent body support during sporty driving.

Tesla Model S: Digital Revolution and Ultimate Comfort

The Tesla Model S from 2021 and 2022 (i.e., after the extensive facelift referred to as "Palladium") represents a completely different approach. The interior resembles a minimalist living room packed with the latest computing technology.

• Extreme infotainment and entertainment: The centerpiece of the car is a 17-inch horizontal display with a resolution of 2200x1300 and performance comparable to modern gaming consoles. Rear-seat passengers have their own smaller display. While charging, you can watch streaming services or play demanding games (Tesla Arcade) on the screens.
• Controversial Yoke steering wheel and absence of stalks: During this period, Tesla became famous for introducing the "Yoke" steering wheel (resembling an airplane's control yoke), which completely clears the view of the dashboard. Furthermore, classic turn signal and wiper stalks are missing – everything is controlled by touch or automatically, including the choice of driving direction (the car can estimate for itself whether you want to go forward or reverse).
• Sentry Mode and Dog Mode: Tesla excels in smart features for everyday life. Sentry Mode uses external cameras to record what's happening around the car if it detects a threat. Dog Mode, in turn, maintains the ideal temperature in the cabin for your pet, while showing a message to passers-by on the large display that the dog is being taken care of.
• Bioweapon Defense Mode: Model S vehicles are equipped with a massive HEPA filter that is so effective it can create positive pressure in the cabin and filter out 99.97% of particles, including pollen, bacteria, and exhaust fumes. This feature is ideal not only for allergy sufferers but also for everyday driving in polluted cities.
• Smart air suspension with GPS memory: Tesla's air suspension offers not only high comfort but can also remember locations based on GPS. If you manually raise the car at your steep garage entrance, next time it will do so completely automatically at the same spot.
• Plaid and top-tier telematics: If you come across the top-of-the-line Plaid version, you get three electric motors with carbon-sleeved rotors, ensuring some of the fastest acceleration values among production cars in the world. Additionally, all models benefit from constant OTA (Over-The-Air) updates, thanks to which the car gains new features and improvements to Autopilot assistance systems even after years.

The Porsche Taycan is the perfect choice for enthusiastic drivers who demand top-tier cornering dynamics, uncompromising feedback, and a luxurious premium interior from an electric vehicle. It is primarily a purebred sports car for driving pleasure, where maximum range and everyday utility play a secondary role.

The Tesla Model S will primarily appeal to tech enthusiasts and users looking for the ultimate electric vehicle for comfortably covering long distances with family and plenty of luggage. It is an unrivaled highway cruiser combining crushing performance with excellent range and worry-free charging, but without the precision and driver engagement offered by Porsche.

Based on owner feedback, service center reports, recalls, and data provided by our comprehensive car audit, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems of both electric models.

When buying a used Porsche Taycan, considering cars approximately four years old, you will mainly encounter software glitches and specific faults associated with thermal management, while the mechanics themselves tend to be above-average reliable.

• Electronics and infotainment: In earlier model years (2020–2021), users often complain about slow system startup, occasional blackouts of the center screens, or problems connecting to the mobile app. Fortunately, most of these issues were addressed by ongoing software updates.
• 12V battery system: A completely discharged 12V battery used to be a frequent cause of the car being unable to unlock or start, even if the main traction battery had enough energy.
• Air conditioning and heating: One of the most common and well-known hardware faults in the Taycan is the failure of the high-voltage heating element (PTC heater). It manifests as non-functional heating in the cabin and, in the absence of a warranty, requires a relatively expensive replacement.
• Chassis and brakes: Extreme weight and massive torque mean very fast tire wear. There was also a recent recall addressing possible cracks in the brake hoses on the front axle, and the physical condition of these components should be revealed by a careful physical inspection of the used car.

For the Tesla Model S (from 2020–2022, including the outgoing "Raven" version and the incoming "Palladium/Plaid"), typical problems do not concern the drive itself, but rather the build quality and several chronic design solutions.

• Build quality and fitment: Tesla has historically struggled in this area with inconsistent fitment of body panels, softer paint prone to stone chips, and occasional creaking of plastics in the cabin. Quality often varies significantly from unit to unit.
• Retractable door handles: The iconic feature of the Model S is also one of the most failure-prone. Microswitches, wiring, or internal motors often fail, causing the handle not to extend and the door cannot be opened from the outside.
• Chassis and suspension arms: A common ailment of heavy Teslas is creaking, squeaking, and knocking from the front axle, usually caused by worn upper control arms. These and other play will be reliably shown by an independent technical inspection of the car's condition.
• "Yoke" steering wheel and interior: In the facelifted Plaid and Long Range versions from 2021 equipped with the cut-off steering wheel (Yoke), a massively widespread problem is the very rapid peeling of the steering wheel surface material.
• Displays and infotainment: Although newer units are more stable than in the first years, some screens may experience degradation of the adhesive used over time, which manifests as yellowing of the edges of the central display.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Although these are very advanced premium electric vehicles, both models have their specifics and potential weak points that need to be focused on when choosing a roughly four-year-old used car. To be safe, a complete physical inspection of the used car is always recommended to rule out hidden defects.

When choosing a Porsche Taycan:

• High-voltage battery condition and onboard charger: In electric vehicles, traction battery degradation is the main factor affecting the car's value. Always ask for the battery's State of Health (SoH). A thorough technical inspection of the car will help reveal the real capacity and the condition of individual modules. Also, check if the specific unit has the optional 22kW AC onboard charger, which you will appreciate when charging at home.
• Functionality of the two-speed gearbox: Unlike most electric vehicles, the Taycan uses a unique two-speed gearbox on the rear axle to achieve higher efficiency and top speed. During the test drive, accelerate both smoothly and sharply and observe the transition around 80–100 km/h. The gear change should be noticeable, but under no circumstances should it be accompanied by metallic bangs, loud jerking, or rattling.
• Heating system (HV Heater): A very common and feared defect in early model years (2020–2021) is the failure of the high-voltage heater. During the test drive, turn the heater to the maximum temperature and verify that hot air is actually flowing into the cabin. If the system heats poorly, replacing the module is quite expensive.
• Software and infotainment response (PCM): In older Taycan model years, the PCM (Porsche Communication Management) system could freeze or suffer from slower response times. Check the speed of menu navigation and ensure the car has undergone the major software update (often called the "uConnect update" from 2022), which optimized not only the infotainment but also the battery's thermal management.
• Air suspension and mechanical brakes: When changing driving modes, listen to the air suspension compressor – raising the car must be smooth and quiet. Also, don't forget to physically check the condition of the brake discs. Since the Taycan brakes using strong regenerative braking the vast majority of the time, conventional mechanical brakes can rust and "seize up" due to lack of use.

When choosing a Tesla Model S:

• Battery degradation and fast-charging history: For a Tesla, it is important to check not only the current estimated range at 100% charge but also the charging history. Frequent and long-term use of Superchargers can lead to a limitation of the maximum charging power by the BMS (Battery Management System) in older units. Here, an independent technical inspection of the car with fault memory diagnostics is worthwhile.
• Wheel suspension and front axle play: The Model S is a very heavy car with enormous torque, which puts extreme strain on chassis components. When driving slowly over speed bumps or turning the steering wheel while stationary, listen carefully for any squeaking, creaking, or dull thuds from the front axle. This is a typical sign of worn control arms.
• Build quality, panel gaps, and seals: On four-year-old cars from American production, check the alignment of body panels and the condition of the seals around the frameless windows in detail. On the highway, listen for excessive aerodynamic noise around the A-pillars or windows. Condensing moisture in the front and especially in the rear light clusters is also a common defect.
• Condition of the center display and dashboard (MCU): Check the smoothness of map loading, the speed of opening applications, and the camera response. A sluggish system indicates an older generation of MCU or memory degradation. Also, look for yellowish stripes on the edges of the screen, which is a known ailment of heat-stressed displays in older Model S cars.
• Drive unit noise: During sharp acceleration, the motors should only emit a natural electric whir. If you hear a significant mechanical sound resembling "milling" or a very loud high-frequency whine, it may signal worn electric motor bearings, which requires an expensive drive unit repair.

Sources: ADAC, svetmotoru.cz, lidovky.cz, autoweb.cz, elektromobil.cz, autosport.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.