Can the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo Really Go Off-Road?
Though prized for their luxury status, Porsche’s cars are often more capable than many think—especially outside of a paved racetrack. The Cayenne has competed in rallies, for example, as have vintage 924s. Even the compact Macan crossover can take to the dirt somewhat. But what about the upcoming electric Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo?
The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is shaping to be a fun electric sports car…er, wagon
While the new Audi E-Tron GT uses the Porsche Taycan’s platform, that’s not the only way the German brand is expanding its EV lineup. Since 2018 Porsche has been teasing a wagon version of the Taycan called the Taycan Cross Turismo, Hagerty reports. And though its debut has been delayed somewhat, Porsche recently showed off a working prototype, Car and Driver reports.
Admittedly, as of this writing, we still don’t know everything about the upcoming Cross Turismo. But based on its design, it will likely have more rear cargo space and seating room than the standard Taycan, Roadshow reports. Plus, if the prototype is anything to go by, a rear window wiper, roof rails, and an integrated spoiler.
We also don’t know which powertrain the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo uses. However, it’s all but certain that the wagon will have AWD, rather than RWD like the base Taycan. Motor1 estimates the wagon will likely use either the Taycan 4S or Turbo powertrains.
With the larger battery, the former’s dual motors put out 562 hp and deliver a 3.4-second 0-60 mph time, Car and Driver reports. And during launches, the Taycan Turbo’s motors jump from 616 hp to 670 hp, dropping the 0-60 mph time to 3 seconds, Roadshow reports.
However, besides the wagon body style, the Cross Turismo gets a few more off-road-focused modifications.
But will the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo be good off-road?
Much like Volvo’s Cross Country wagons, the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo has more ground clearance and body cladding than the standard model, Autoblog reports. Though again, we don’t know exactly how much more ground clearance.
However, we do know it comes from a modified suspension system, The Drive reports. And we also know the Cross Turismo has a special driving mode for going off-pavement, Motor1 reports. This is likely why the wagon will be AWD, rather than RWD: better off-road traction.
It’s difficult to truly say how capable the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is on- and off-road without knowing more details. And without actually driving it. However, it’s safe to say you won’t be tackling Moab in the wagon. Instead, it’s meant to take on “urban life with off-the-beaten-road adventures as a side dish,” The Drive muses.
Indeed, Porsche specifically references “gravel roads” in regards to the Taycan Cross Turismo’s new driving mode. More WRX than Jeep Wrangler, in other words. Though that will likely be enough for most Taycan Cross Turismo buyers.
When will it arrive?
Originally, the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo was meant to debut in early 2021, MotorTrend reports. And it appears Porsche may meet that goal, Autoblog reports. If so, deliveries should begin with the start of the 2022 model year.
As of this writing, Taycan Cross Turismo pricing details haven’t been revealed. Hopefully, more information will become available closer to the release date. And then we’ll truly get a sense of how good this electric wagon could be off-road.
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