Porsche Taycan: generations, battery and what to check when buying used
The Porsche Taycan is the first fully electric Porsche, produced since 2019 with an 800V system and sporty handling. We look at the generations, the 2024 refresh, the battery, and what's important to check before buying a used Taycan.
Taycan in brief
The Taycan is a four-door sports electric vehicle that combines Porsche driving characteristics with electric powertrain. You can choose between the sedan, Cross Turismo or Sport Turismo estates, with versions ranging from the base model to the mighty Turbo S and Turbo GT.
Used Taycans are prized for their driving feel, luxurious interior, and fast charging. However, it's still an expensive car, and used prices and version availability vary widely.
Before and after the 2024 refresh
The first Taycan generations (2019–2023) came with either a 79 kWh or larger 93 kWh battery, powerful Turbo, Turbo S, 4S and GTS versions. These are the cheapest on the used market, but their equipment and software might be outdated.
The 2024 refreshed models come with a newer battery, longer range, more power, and improved software. They're pricier on the used market but are more technologically advanced and better suited to long journeys.
Engine, battery and charging
The Taycan has one electric motor on the rear axle (base) or two motors with all-wheel drive (4S, GTS, Turbo, Turbo S). The rear axle features a two-speed transmission that ensures both quick acceleration and a high top speed.
The Taycan uses an 800V system, so it can quickly charge from suitable fast-charging stations. Specific details such as battery capacity, range, and charging power vary by version and year, so check the specific car's specifications before buying.
What to check when buying a used Taycan
Always request a battery condition check and find out how much warranty is left. Check the charging history – frequent fast charging or extreme use can affect the battery's condition.
Check if any manufacturer recalls or software updates have been carried out, and if there are no errors displayed on the instrument cluster. Test the air suspension and brakes, as repairs can be expensive.
Large wheels and sport tyres wear out quickly, so their condition significantly impacts future costs. Inspect the body, wheels, and paint condition, as minor damage in this segment can be costly.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
Taycan
2019–2023 and laterBase version with rear-wheel drive.
- Often – air suspension
- Often – 19–20 inch wheels
- Often – Performance Battery Plus
Taycan 4S
2020 and laterAll-wheel drive and more power than the base version.
- All-wheel drive
- Often – Performance Battery Plus
- Often — 20-inch alloy wheels
Taycan GTS
From 2021The sportier option between the 4S and Turbo.
- Sporty driving, more power
- Often — sporty body styling
- Often — 20–21-inch alloy wheels
Taycan Turbo / Turbo S
2019 and laterThe most powerful Taycan variants with particularly quick acceleration.
- Most powerful engines
- Often — ceramic brakes (PCCB)
- Often — 21-inch alloy wheels
Trim comparison
| Taycan | 4S | GTS | Turbo / Turbo S | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For daily driving | For speed and all-wheel drive | Sporty driving | Maximum power |
| Gearbox | Rear-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Wheels (most common) | 19–20 inch | 20 inch | 20–21 inch | 21 inch |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ | €€€€ | €€€€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is the 4S, as it offers ample power and all-wheel drive. The GTS and Turbo are worth considering only if maximum performance is crucial and the budget allows.
Pros
- Sporty driving that harks back to classic Porsche
- Quick charging thanks to the 800 V system
- Luxurious, high-quality interior
- Several body styles — sedan and estate
Cons
- Expensive maintenance and repairs
- Large wheels and tyres wear out quickly
- Prices are high in the used market
Frequently asked questions
How does the Taycan differ from the Tesla Model S?
The Taycan is geared towards the driving experience and a quality interior, while the Tesla focuses on software and range. Both cars are incredibly fast, but they have different characters.
How does the Cross Turismo differ from the sedan?
The Cross Turismo is an estate with a larger body, bigger boot and higher ride height. The technology is very similar, but the body is more practical.
Is a used Taycan reliable?
Most cars run without major issues, but when buying it's important to check the battery condition, service history and any manufacturer recalls.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























