Gearheads and electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts in India rejoice! The highly anticipated facelift of the Porsche Taycan, the German automaker’s flagship electric sports sedan, has finally arrived on Indian shores. Boasting a combination of subtle design tweaks, enhanced powertrain performance, and a significant range increase, the 2024 Taycan facelift promises an even more exhilarating electric driving experience.
Upgraded Battery, Increased Range: Unlocking More Electric Miles
One of the most significant changes in the 2024 Taycan facelift lies under the hood, or rather, the sleek silhouette. Porsche has equipped the Taycan with a more potent battery pack. The standard offering is an 89 kWh unit, with the option to upgrade to a larger 105 kWh Performance Battery Plus Pack. This translates to a more extended electric range, crucial for long-distance journeys and reducing range anxiety. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the battery, electric motor, and claimed range for each model:
Model | Performance Battery Pack (Standard) | Performance Battery Plus Pack (Optional) | Power (PS)* | Torque (Nm)* | Claimed Range (WLTP)* |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Porsche Taycan 4S II | 89 kWh | 105 kWh | 460 | 695 | Up to 557 km |
Porsche Taycan Turbo II | 105 kWh | – | 707 | 890 | Up to 629 km |
Please note: The figures mentioned above are based on the UK-spec Taycan and serve as a reference point. Porsche is yet to reveal the official India-specific figures.
For the performance-oriented Turbo model, an exciting new feature is the “push-to-pass” function. It delivers a temporary 95 PS power boost for 10 thrilling seconds, further amplifying the exhilarating driving experience.
Complementing the enhanced battery is a faster charging capability. The 2024 Taycan facelift supports up to 320 kW DC fast charging, a significant improvement over the previous model’s 270 kW. This translates to shorter charging times, perfect for those seeking a quick power-up on the go. An 11 kW AC charger comes as standard equipment, ensuring convenient charging at home or at compatible charging stations.
Evolved Design: Striking a Balance Between Familiarity and Freshness
The exterior design of the 2024 Taycan facelift retains the iconic silhouette and sleek lines that have become synonymous with Porsche’s electric masterpiece. However, subtle yet impactful changes add a touch of freshness. The new HD Matrix LED headlights have a flatter profile while retaining the signature four-point DRLs from the outgoing model. Redesigned air vents in the front bumper add a touch of dynamism, and the Turbo model gets exclusive Turbonite painted design elements for a distinctive look.
At the rear, the “Porsche” logo now features an illumination function, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. It sits beneath a clear panel, further enhancing the car’s visual appeal. New 21-inch alloy wheels with a lighter aerodynamic design grace the facelift, further complemented by low-resistance tires optimized for efficiency.
On the handling front, the 2024 Taycan boasts adaptive air suspension as standard, offering a comfortable and dynamic ride. For the all-wheel-drive Turbo II variant, an optional active suspension setup can be chosen for an even more performance-oriented driving experience. Additionally, Porsche engineers have managed to shave up to 15 kg from the overall weight of the Taycan lineup, contributing to improved performance and efficiency.
A Refined and Connected Cabin Experience
While the exterior changes are subtle, the interior of the 2024 Taycan facelift receives a touch more attention. The user interface (UI) for the 10.9-inch infotainment system, the expansive 16.8-inch fully digital driver’s display, and the optional passenger’s display have all received visual enhancements, offering a more contemporary and user-friendly experience. Notably, the infotainment system and passenger’s display now support video streaming, keeping passengers entertained on longer journeys.
A welcome change is the inclusion of the driving mode button as a standard feature. Additionally, a new lever positioned behind the steering wheel on the left side provides convenient access to the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) settings. Environmentally conscious buyers will appreciate the addition of two new leather-free seat upholstery options offered with the facelift.
FAQs
Q: What is the starting price of the 2024 Porsche Taycan facelift in India?
A: The starting price for the Taycan 4S II is Rs 1.89 crore (ex-showroom), while the Taycan Turbo II starts at Rs 2.53 crore (ex-showroom).
Q: What is the claimed range of the 2024 Porsche Taycan facelift?
A: The claimed range varies depending on the model and battery pack chosen. The Taycan 4S II with the standard 89 kWh battery pack has a claimed range of up to 557 km (WLTP), while the Taycan Turbo II with the standard 105 kWh battery pack offers a claimed range of up to 629 km (WLTP).
Q: Does the 2024 Taycan facelift offer any new features compared to the previous model?
A: Yes, the facelift comes with several new features, including a more powerful battery pack, faster DC fast charging, a standard driving mode button, a new lever for ADAS settings, leather-free seat upholstery options, and video streaming capability for the infotainment system and passenger’s display (if equipped).
Q: How does the 2024 Taycan facelift compare to its rivals?
A: The Taycan facelift offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and range within the high-performance electric car segment. While the Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT offer similar performance and features, the Taycan might have a slight edge in terms of handling and brand cachet. For those seeking a more spacious and luxurious option, the Mercedes-Benz EQS and AMG EQS 53 are strong contenders, but they might not offer the same level of driving dynamics.