What Is the Best Full-Size EV?
As the EV market grows and more automakers start producing EVs, choosing which EV is the best is difficult. Previously, Tesla was just about the only option for EVs and dominated the market. However, most major automakers, including Ford, Stellantis, and GM, now have all-electric or hybrid engine models. Even luxury brands such as Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche have gotten into the mix. So, if you are looking for a full-size EV and are not sure which brand to go with, here are the top two full-size EVs available for 2021.
The popularity of EVs continues to grow
In 2000, Toyota released the first mass-produced hybrid electric vehicle, the Prius, which, two decades later, is still one of the most popular hybrids on the market. In 2006, a small start-up named Tesla Motors announced it would produce a luxury electric sports car with a range of over 200 miles. Since then, EVs have exponentially increased in popularity. In fact, even though overall car sales plummeted during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, EV sales have actually dramatically increased. That’s not just for Tesla, as the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Chevy Bolt EV have also seen record sales.
The best full-size EV is the 2021 Porsche Taycan
Porsche models sure aren’t cheap, and the Taycan’s range of 227 miles can’t compare to the runner-up EV. Even so, the quality of the build and the incredible driving dynamics make the Porsche Taycan the best full-size EV on the market right now. On the base Taycan, a rear-axle motor uses a new two-speed automatic transmission. In addition to the standard power, you get a temporary overboost power level if the launch control is engaged. The standard 79.2 kWh battery puts out 321 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, and in overboost mode, that jumps up to 402 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque.
Furthermore, if you decide to go with the Taycan Turbo S, the 460 kWh battery puts out 616 horsepower. Engage launch control, and the battery power increases to 560 kWh and puts out an incredible 750 horsepower and 774 lb-ft of torque. As for its reported 0-60 mph speed, the Taycan is set at 2.4 seconds. While the EPA estimated range of 192 miles is nowhere near Tesla, the range should be more than sufficient for most people unless you are taking long road trips.
Even though the Porsche Taycan might be outside of most people’s budget at first glance, EV incentives and other discounts available might warrant a deeper look and could make a Porsche a feasible purchase. Tesla is currently at the top of that heap if having a large range is important to you. However, Tesla should watch out because if Porsche can produce a longer-range battery, Tesla might be left in the EV dust.
The second best full-size EV is the Tesla Model S
According to RoadShow and its list of the best electric cars for 2021, the Model S is not the best full-size EV out there, but it comes in a close second. There is no question that the Model S is the top car in terms of range, with an estimated range of over 400 miles on a single charge. However, its platform is aging and has well-known quality control issues. It is comfortable and powerful, with dual AC electric motors putting out a combined 670 horsepower and a reported 0-60 mph speed of 3.1 seconds. Still, the driving dynamics fall short of being the best for full-size EVs.