*This article is a continuation of Part 1. If you haven’t read it yet, please start with “How the Taycan Turbo GT Changed Our Lineup (Part 1).”*

タイカンターボGTの衝撃 – 911を手放してまで所有したい魅力とは？（前編）

The True Value of the EV Powertrain

“Isn’t it just fun because it has so much power?”—This question is natural, but the Taycan Turbo GT’s appeal goes far beyond raw horsepower.

Sure, it boasts over 1000 horsepower, but its value isn’t simply in that peak output number. This applies to any high-power EV, including Tesla.

Here lies the decisive difference from gasoline engines. Traditional high-power machines become harder to handle as power increases, with issues like turbo lag. From a standstill or when accelerating out of intersections, there can be delays that don’t match the driver’s intent. Also, to fully unleash their performance, you need to keep the engine revs up, which is tough on public roads and often leads to stress and frustration.

In contrast, the Taycan’s electric drivetrain instantly delivers exactly the power you need from its 1000 horsepower potential. Whether you want just 100 horsepower or only 50, you can finely control it with a single press of your right foot. And the response is uniquely exhilarating, thanks to the motor’s inherent 1000-hp capability. No waiting for revs to climb—power is available across the entire band.

The Taycan’s true charm isn’t just its speed on circuits or winding roads. Its essential value lies in bringing the thrill and joy of track driving directly to everyday streets. It’s not about monstrous acceleration, but about every movement being power-packed and the response incredibly satisfying even at low speeds.

The sensation of the car responding as if directly linked to your will is a unique EV trait and the Taycan’s greatest strength.

Outstanding Sound and Braking Excellence

It’s understandable to be skeptical about an electric car having a great sound.

It’s natural to think fake (artificial) sounds can never beat a real engine’s roar. Yet the Taycan Turbo GT’s sound is wonderfully captivating. Even with the Sport Electric Sound off, it emits a deep, refined tone reminiscent of a toned-down Formula E race car. Whether on the highway or city streets, this sound elevates the driving mood.

Turn the Sport Electric Sound on, and the cabin fills with powerful tones while the outside resonates with a thrilling roar. The Turbo GT’s sound is completely different from a regular Taycan. Even at a standstill, a “whoosh” spreads around, and the shift-up to 2nd gear and the downshift sound when braking into corners feel incredibly satisfying.

While the explosive burble of a 911 Carrera 4 GTS is spectacular, the Taycan Turbo GT’s electric sound holds its own unique allure.

The braking system is also remarkable.

Equipped with PCCB ceramic brakes, the Taycan’s regenerative braking is even more impressive. The brake feel is incredibly controllable, showcasing Porsche’s engineering prowess. The dashboard shows the balance between regenerative and physical braking, and on public roads, over 90% of braking is handled regeneratively.

The common misconception that EVs are heavy and hard on brakes is completely reversed here—brake wear is minimal.

And the agility that belies its 2.2-ton weight is astonishing.

It moves with the nimbleness of a McLaren, hardly feeling heavy. The only time the mass was noticeable was at Fuji Speedway’s 100R corner, but on tight corners, it even feels more agile than a Boxster. For example, on the narrow and twisty Hyogo Prefectural Route 16 from Takarazuka to Rokko Mountain, it’s incredibly light and fun to drive, easily surpassing the Boxster’s enjoyment.

A Car That Changes Your Perspective

The Taycan Turbo GT shakes even the values of existing Porsche owners.

Several Porsche owners have test-driven it, and all unanimously say “Amazing!” “It changes everything I thought I knew.” The shock is so profound that driving their own Porsche suddenly feels pointless, with comments like “Why isn’t this available as a test car? Everyone would buy one after driving it!”

This isn’t mere politeness—it’s genuine astonishment.

Many Porsche owners fall silent after driving it, saying “I’m at a loss for words.” The reaction of “What did my previous values even mean?” proves the Taycan Turbo GT isn’t just an evolution, but a true paradigm shift.

I’m aware I might be overly praising the car I bought myself. But even putting that aside, it undeniably has the allure that makes me want to keep driving the Taycan Turbo GT even after selling my 911.

This isn’t just a move toward electrification; it’s Porsche evolving the very essence of the sports car into the next era.

Reset your fixed ideas about EVs and the image you have of the Taycan—this is a gem every Porsche enthusiast should experience at least once.