Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo: Practicality vs. Excitement
The automotive world is still navigating echoes of past disruptions. The 2026 Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo, a station wagon variant, mirrors the 2025 Taycan 4S sedan, a previous contender for our Car of the Year award. The primary difference lies in the Cross Turismo's enhanced cargo capacity (an additional 12 cubic feet) and a slightly higher price tag ($1,120). Ideally, both models would have debuted concurrently, but circumstances dictated otherwise.
This isn't necessarily a disadvantage. The Taycan sedan impressed with its exceptional driving dynamics and rapid charging capabilities. The Cross Turismo evokes similar enthusiasm. Its blend of agility, style, and SUV-like practicality is compelling. The adaptive air suspension smooths out imperfections while maintaining flat cornering. The cabin is remarkably quiet, and the analog compass/altimeter adds a touch of classic charm.
Unlike some electric vehicles, the Taycan Cross Turismo 4S achieves impressive performance without sacrificing efficiency. Its dual-motor powertrain, delivering 590 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque, benefits from Porsche's new 97-kWh battery. In our real-world testing, it exceeded its EPA-estimated range, achieving 308 miles at 70 mph. Furthermore, it boasts rapid charging, replenishing from 5-80% in just 22 minutes. The Taycan family are some of the fastest charging EVs we have tested.
However, given its $133,000 price point, scrutiny is warranted. Some felt the Cross Turismo lacked some of the excitement of the sedan. The Cross Turismo's dynamics, steering, power, and brakes are sound, but it reaches its limit quickly. It doesn't inspire the driver to push harder like the Taycan sedan or other Porsche models.
Echoing our assessment of the Taycan sedan, the Cross Turismo could benefit from a one-pedal driving mode. The infotainment system, particularly the lower touchscreen, could be more intuitive. Interior space efficiency could also be improved in both models. Objectively, the Cross Turismo is pricier and less energy efficient than the sedan. It may face similar challenges to the sedan when judged against Car of the Year criteria: efficiency, design, safety, engineering excellence, value, and performance of intended function.
