Tesla Model S vs Porsche Taycan

Country of Origin:

• Tesla Model S → United States (California)

• Porsche Taycan → Germany (Stuttgart)

Parent Company:

• Tesla, Inc.

• Porsche AG (Volkswagen Group)

Vehicle Type:

• Tesla Model S → Luxury electric sedan

• Porsche Taycan → High-performance electric sports sedan

First Launch:

• Model S: 2012 (Major redesign in 2021)

• Taycan: 2019

Base Price (U.S.):

• Tesla Model S → From $74,990

• Porsche Taycan → From $90,900

Top Trim Price:

• Model S Plaid → ~$109,990

• Taycan Turbo GT → ~$230,000

Available Variants:

• Model S Dual Motor / Plaid

• Taycan / 4S / Turbo / Turbo S / Turbo GT

Drivetrain:

• Both → All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Total Power Output:

• Model S Plaid → 1,020 hp

• Taycan Turbo GT → 938 hp

Max Torque:

• Model S → ~1,050 Nm

• Taycan → 1,340 Nm

0–60 mph Acceleration:

• Model S Plaid → 1.99 seconds

• Taycan Turbo GT → 2.3 seconds

Top Speed:

• Model S → 200 mph (322 km/h)

• Taycan → 190 mph (305 km/h)

Range (EPA):

• Model S → Up to 405 miles (652 km)

• Taycan → Up to 318 miles (511 km)

Real-World Range:

• Model S → Around 370 miles

• Taycan → Around 290 miles

Battery Capacity:

• Model S → ~100 kWh

• Taycan → 97 kWh (Performance Battery Plus)

Voltage Architecture:

• Model S → 400V

• Taycan → 800V (Advanced system)

Fast Charging Power:

• Model S → Up to 250 kW (Supercharger V3)

• Taycan → Up to 320 kW (800V system)

Charging Time (10–80%):

• Model S → ~25 minutes

• Taycan → ~18 minutes

AC Charging (Home):

• Model S → 11.5 kW

• Taycan → 11–22 kW depending on variant

Charging Port:

• Model S → NACS (North American Charging Standard)

• Taycan → CCS Type 2

Battery Cooling:

• Model S → Advanced liquid cooling system

• Taycan → Multi-stage liquid thermal management

Energy Efficiency:

• Model S → 3.7 mi/kWh

• Taycan → 3.2 mi/kWh

Suspension:

• Model S → Adaptive air suspension

• Taycan → Active air suspension with electronic control

Rear-Wheel Steering:

• Model S → Not available

• Taycan → Available (up to 5 degrees)

Transmission:

• Model S → Single-speed

• Taycan → Two-speed gearbox (for high-speed efficiency)

Brakes:

• Model S → Ventilated discs / Carbon-ceramic optional

• Taycan → Standard carbon-ceramic on Turbo S

Dynamic Control System:

• Model S → Torque Vectoring, Track Mode

• Taycan → Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC)

Body Material:

• Model S → All aluminum

• Taycan → Aluminum and high-strength steel mix

Weight:

• Model S → 2,162 kg

• Taycan → 2,295 kg

Weight Distribution:

• Model S → 48/52

• Taycan → 49/51

Aerodynamic Drag (Cd):

• Model S → 0.208

• Taycan → 0.22

Autonomous Driving:

• Model S → Autopilot + Full Self-Driving (FSD)

• Taycan → InnoDrive + Lane Assist

Sensors and Cameras:

• Model S → 8 cameras, 12 sensors, 1 radar

• Taycan → 4 cameras, 12 sensors, 2 radars

OTA (Over-the-Air Updates):

• Model S → Full system updates

• Taycan → Limited to maps and infotainment

Interior Design:

• Model S → Minimal, futuristic, large central screen

• Taycan → Luxurious, sporty, with premium materials

Driver Display:

• Model S → 12.3-inch digital display

• Taycan → 16.8-inch curved digital display

Center Screen:

• Model S → 17-inch rotatable screen

• Taycan → 10.9-inch central + passenger display

Rear Screen:

• Model S → Optional for rear passengers

• Taycan → Not available

Operating System:

• Model S → Tesla OS

• Taycan → Porsche Communication Management (PCM)

Voice Assistant:

• Model S → Built-in Tesla voice command

• Taycan → Porsche Voice Pilot

Smartphone Integration:

• Model S → Tesla App

• Taycan → Apple CarPlay / Android Auto

App Control:

• Model S → Full control (lock, charge, location, HVAC)

• Taycan → Partial control (charging, climate only)

Climate Control:

• Model S → HEPA filtration, automatic HVAC

• Taycan → 3-zone climate + PM2.5 filter

Audio System:

• Model S → Tesla Premium (22 speakers)

• Taycan → Bose (14 speakers) or Burmester (21 speakers)

Ambient Lighting:

• Model S → Basic LED interior lighting

• Taycan → Fully customizable ambient lighting

Seating Configuration:

• Model S → 5 seats, heated and ventilated

• Taycan → 4+1 configuration, premium leather

Front Legroom:

• Model S → 41.1 inches

• Taycan → 41.6 inches

Rear Legroom:

• Model S → 38.1 inches

• Taycan → 37 inches

Trunk Capacity (Rear):

• Model S → 709 liters

• Taycan → 407 liters

Front Trunk (Frunk):

• Both → 84 liters

Safety Rating (NHTSA):

• Model S → 5 stars overall

• Taycan → Not officially rated yet

Forward Collision Assist:

• Both → Yes

Lane Keeping Assist:

• Both → Yes

Automatic Emergency Braking:

• Both → Yes

Pedestrian Detection:

• Both → Yes

Blind Spot Monitoring:

• Both → Yes

Night Vision Assist:

• Model S → No

• Taycan → Available (Turbo, Turbo S)

Cabin Noise Insulation:

• Model S → Excellent

• Taycan → Superior

Maintenance Cost (Annual):

• Model S → ~$400

• Taycan → ~$1,200

Charging Cost (Annual, 12k miles):

• Model S → ~$550

• Taycan → ~$600

Insurance Cost (Annual Average):

• Model S → ~$1,800

• Taycan → ~$2,500

Warranty:

• Both → 4 years / 50,000 miles

Battery Warranty:

• Model S → 8 years / 150,000 miles

• Taycan → 8 years / 100,000 miles

Resale Value:

• Model S → Very strong

• Taycan → Strong, slightly lower

Charging Network:

• Model S → Tesla Supercharger (best global network)

• Taycan → Electrify America / Ionity

After-Sales Service:

• Model S → Mostly online through Tesla app

• Taycan → Dealership-based service

Customization Options:

• Model S → Limited (colors, wheels, interior)

• Taycan → Extensive (hundreds of combinations)

Brand Identity:

• Tesla → Tech-forward, innovative

• Porsche → Heritage luxury and performance

Everyday Driving Comfort:

• Model S → Smooth, quiet, comfortable

• Taycan → Sporty, precise, performance-focused

Long-Distance Travel:

• Model S → Superior (longer range, Superchargers)

• Taycan → Good, but more stops required

Track Performance:

• Model S → Excellent but heat-limited

• Taycan → Exceptional and consistent

Overall Value for Money:

• Model S → Best technology-to-price ratio

• Taycan → Expensive but unmatched luxury

Exterior Design:

• Model S → Clean, modern

• Taycan → Aggressive, muscular

Overall Rating (Out of 10):

• Model S → 9.5/10

• Taycan → 9.3/10

People's opinions

Review by Car and Driver 📰

The 2025 Tesla Model S continues to impress with its jaw-dropping acceleration, long range, and smooth driving dynamics. However, time is catching up with it — newer rivals like the Lucid Air and BMW i5 are now setting higher standards for luxury and in-car technology.

Starting at $81,630, the base Model S delivers up to 402 miles of range, making it the smarter buy compared to the Model S Plaid, which costs $96,630 and rockets from 0–60 mph in just 2.1 seconds thanks to its 1020-hp tri-motor setup.

Both versions feature all-wheel drive, though the controversial yoke steering wheel still feels awkward for tight maneuvers. The minimalist interior looks sleek but lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the cabin materials don’t quite match the premium feel of European competitors.

In terms of efficiency, the standard Model S offers 127 MPGe city / 116 highway, while the Plaid achieves 111 / 103 MPGe. Tesla’s Autopilot remains standard, with “Full Self-Driving” available but still requiring full driver attention. Warranty coverage includes 4 years or 50,000 miles for general components and 8 years with unlimited miles for the powertrain.

Despite its age, the Model S remains one of the most thrilling EVs on the road—just no longer the undisputed king.

👉 Read the full review at Car and Driver: https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s

Review by What Car? 📰

The 2025 Tesla Model S still delivers a thrilling electric experience, blending supercar-level acceleration with everyday practicality. In its Plaid trim, it rockets from 0–60 mph in just 2.4 seconds, while the air suspension ensures a smooth ride on highways—though it can feel slightly unsettled on rougher city streets. Handling is confident and stable, even if it lacks the sharp agility of the Porsche Taycan. Tesla’s Autopilot remains one of the most capable driver-assist systems available, with optional upgrades like self-parking and summon features adding extra convenience.

When it comes to range, the Long Range model achieves about 394 miles per charge, while the Plaid manages around 373 miles. Charging is exceptionally fast—Tesla’s Supercharger network can add 180 miles of range in just 15 minutes, putting it far ahead of most competitors.

Inside, the Model S embraces Tesla’s signature minimalist design, centered around a massive 17-inch touchscreen that controls nearly everything. The infotainment system supports Netflix, YouTube, and even gaming with PS5 controllers, though the absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remains a notable omission. Build quality has improved, but still trails luxury rivals like Audi and Porsche.

Practicality is another strength: the spacious cabin, flat rear floor, and huge rear boot plus a front trunk make it one of the most versatile EVs in its class. It easily fits 11 carry-on suitcases, and the panoramic roof adds an airy feel, though the rear seats don’t slide or recline.

Value-wise, the Long Range version competes directly with the Audi e-tron GT and Porsche Taycan 4S, while the Plaid offers hypercar performance at a relatively lower cost. Tesla’s warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles, with battery and drive unit protection up to 8 years or 150,000 miles. Reliability ranks mid-pack—better than Mercedes and Audi, but still behind BMW and Lexus.

Safety remains a strong point, with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating and advanced features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Tesla’s signature Sentry Mode, which records incidents when parked.

👉 Read the full review at What Car?: https://www.whatcar.com/tesla/model-s/hatchback/review/n150

Review by Top Gear 📰

The 2025 Tesla Model S remains one of the most iconic electric vehicles ever built—a car that redefined what EV performance could be. Originally launched in 2012 as Tesla’s first mass-market sedan, it has aged remarkably well, continuing to set high standards for speed and range. Unfortunately, since 2021, it’s no longer offered in right-hand drive markets like the UK, a decision that many enthusiasts still regret.

Under the hood, the Model S packs serious power. The standard version uses a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup with a 100kWh battery producing 661 bhp, reaching 0–60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. For those craving even more, the Plaid Track Package delivers a staggering 1,020 bhp from its three motors—catapulting it to 60 mph in an unbelievable 2.11 seconds, often leaving supercars trailing behind on drag strips.

Range remains impressive, with the standard Model S covering around 405 miles per charge, while the Plaid Track Package manages roughly 373 miles. In real-world driving, it still achieves well over 300 miles. Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, now boasting over 40,000 stations worldwide, ensures effortless long-distance travel. Charging costs vary, averaging around £70 at public stations or £35 when charged at home (UK rates).

Design-wise, the Model S keeps its sleek and understated look, paired with a low center of gravity that enhances handling. Inside, the minimalist cabin design remains striking, though reviewers note it doesn’t quite reflect the car’s premium price point.

Ultimately, Top Gear credits the Tesla Model S as one of the most influential EVs in automotive history—a car that forced traditional automakers to accelerate their electric ambitions. Even as competitors catch up, it continues to impress with breathtaking acceleration, excellent range, and cutting-edge tech.

👉 Read the full review at Top Gear: https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/tesla/model-s 

Review by Car and Driver 📰

The 2025 Porsche Taycan proves that electric power can still deliver pure driving excitement. It’s not just fast—it’s ferociously fast. The top-spec Turbo GT rockets from 0–60 mph in a mind-bending 1.9 seconds, outpacing nearly every EV on the market, including Tesla’s Model S Plaid. Across the lineup, power ranges from 402 hp in the base Taycan to 1,019 hp with launch control in the Turbo GT. Steering is razor-sharp, the chassis feels planted, and the car’s low-slung stance provides a true sports-car experience. Standard air suspension smooths out most bumps, while the optional Porsche Active Ride system keeps the car remarkably flat through corners.

The Taycan’s performance is backed by impressive range and world-class charging tech. Depending on the trim, EPA range varies between 261 and 318 miles, with the Turbo GT rated at 276 miles. In real-world tests, the Taycan 4S even reached 330 miles at highway speeds, showing Porsche’s engineering focus on efficiency as well as speed. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the Taycan can handle up to 320 kW DC fast charging, taking the battery from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes—a benchmark in the EV world. Buyers can choose between 83.6 kWh and 97 kWh battery packs depending on trim and performance needs.

Inside, Porsche blends technology and luxury seamlessly. The cabin feels futuristic, with up to five digital displays, including one for the front passenger. The infotainment system now offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus improved route planning for EV trips. Materials are top-tier, and comfort features include massaging seats, heated rear seats, and four-zone climate control. Space in the rear is a bit tight, and cargo capacity isn’t huge—but the front trunk helps balance practicality.

Pricing reflects the Taycan’s premium status, starting at $101,395 for the base model and climbing to $231,995 for the Turbo GT. Car and Driver recommends the Taycan 4S as the sweet spot, delivering the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and value. Customization options are extensive, including Paint to Sample colors and Performance packages for enthusiasts.

Safety tech includes standard automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, while adaptive cruise with lane centering is optional. Warranty coverage matches industry norms: 4 years/50,000 miles for the vehicle and 8 years/100,000 miles for the battery—though Tesla still offers an unlimited-mile battery warranty.

In summary, the 2025 Taycan remains a masterpiece of electric performance engineering, earning both Car and Driver’s Editors’ Choice and EV of the Year awards. It’s luxurious, lightning-fast, and exquisitely built—though its range and price may give pause to some buyers.

👉 Read the full review at Car and Driver: https://www.caranddriver.com/porsche/taycan 

Review by Top Gear 📰

The 2025 Porsche Taycan continues to redefine what a luxury electric sports sedan can be, combining sports car precision with everyday usability. The latest update doesn’t bring radical styling changes—instead, Porsche focused on what truly matters: efficiency and performance. Thanks to improved battery chemistry and upgraded electronic systems, the Taycan now charges faster, goes farther, and drives even sharper than before.

Performance remains breathtaking. The rear-wheel-drive Taycan sprints from 0–62 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the range-topping Turbo S—especially with the Weissach package—unleashes 1,034 bhp and rockets to 62 mph in just 2.2 seconds. Despite its 2,300 kg weight, Porsche’s clever chassis systems and air suspension make it feel incredibly agile, with steering so precise it’s often compared to the mid-engined Porsche Cayman. The result is a car that blends raw speed with poise and balance few EVs can match.

Range and charging tech are equally impressive. Buyers can choose between 82 kWh and 97 kWh battery packs, both supporting lightning-fast 320 kW DC charging, allowing a 10–80% top-up in only 18 minutes on 350 kW chargers. Depending on configuration, the Taycan now offers between 296 and 424 miles of range (WLTP)—a huge leap forward that brings its efficiency closer than ever to the Tesla Model S Plaid.

Inside, the Taycan feels every bit as premium as its badge suggests. The cabin is futuristic and beautifully finished, with multiple digital displays that become intuitive once you get used to them. Air suspension comes standard, ensuring a smooth and composed ride even on rough roads, while the optional active ride system elevates comfort to a whole new level. Rear-seat legroom and cargo space remain modest, but this is a car designed more for thrills than practicality.

In the end, Top Gear describes the 2025 Taycan as a masterful fusion of style, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. It’s still an expensive machine, but the recent efficiency upgrades make it more compelling than ever—a true electric Porsche that feels both sophisticated and alive.

👉 Read the full review at Top Gear: https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/porsche/taycan 

 Review by What Car? 📰

The 2025 Porsche Taycan cements its place as one of the finest-driving electric cars ever made. According to What Car?, it’s a near-perfect balance of power, handling, and everyday usability—outclassing direct rivals like the Audi e-tron GT and Mercedes EQS in both agility and steering precision. The Taycan glides through corners with almost no body roll, feeling light on its feet despite its size and weight. Standard adaptive air suspension ensures a plush yet controlled ride, while the optional Porsche Active Ride system elevates comfort and stability even further.

Performance options are as thrilling as ever. The base rear-wheel-drive Taycan delivers 429 bhp and hits 0–62 mph in 4.8 seconds, while the Taycan 4S adds all-wheel drive and climbs to 590 bhp with a 0–62 mph sprint of 3.7 seconds. The range-topping Turbo GT, equipped with the Weissach Package, unleashes a monstrous 1,020 bhp, reaching 62 mph in a blistering 2.2 seconds. Even braking feels natural and progressive, with seamless regenerative feedback that avoids the artificial feel found in some EVs.

Range and charging are standout strengths. Every 2025 Taycan now includes the 97 kWh Performance Battery Plus, offering up to 421 miles (WLTP) in the base model and around 345 miles in the Turbo GT. Thanks to its advanced 800-volt system, charging from 10–80% takes just 20 minutes using 320 kW DC fast chargers. Home charging via a 7kW wallbox takes around 15 hours, and Porsche even includes three years of free public charging for added value.

Inside, What Car? describes the Taycan’s cabin as the best in its class, surpassing even Audi and Mercedes for build quality and craftsmanship. The seating position is low and sporty, visibility is good, and materials feel ultra-premium. The infotainment setup can feature up to four digital screens, including an optional passenger display. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, though some functions—like air vent adjustments—can feel fiddly due to the touchscreen interface. For audiophiles, Bose (710W) and Burmester (1455W) sound systems are available.

Practicality is solid for a performance EV. There’s room for four adults, with an optional narrow fifth seat in the back. Luggage space includes a generous rear boot that fits six carry-ons, plus a useful front trunk. Entry can be slightly awkward due to the car’s low stance and narrow doors, but that’s part of the Taycan’s sporty design DNA.

Prices start at £85,990 and rise to around £189,265 for the Turbo GT, with many desirable features—like adaptive cruise control and full leather interiors—offered as options. Still, with low company-car tax benefits and strong residual values, it’s a tempting choice for business buyers.

On safety, the Taycan earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, performing excellently overall though whiplash protection could be improved. Standard features include AEB, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Reliability scores are mixed, with Porsche ranking 21st out of 31 brands in owner surveys, but build quality remains among the best in the segment.

In summary, What Car? calls the 2025 Taycan a technological tour de force—a car that combines luxury, comfort, and blistering performance into one beautifully engineered package.

👉 Read the full review at What Car?: https://www.whatcar.com/porsche/taycan/saloon/review/n20184

💬 Our Opinion

The 2025 Taycan feels sharper, faster, and more refined than ever. It’s a true driver’s EV — thrilling on the road yet packed with smart efficiency upgrades. Still, it’s pricey and not as practical as the Tesla Model S, but when it comes to pure driving pleasure, Porsche takes the win.