The 2020 Porsche Taycan is not just an electric car; it is a Porsche first and an EV second. Launched in 2019 (1st Generation), it was the first serious challenge to Tesla's dominance, proving that electric cars could have a soul. With an 800-volt architecture for ultra-fast charging and a unique 2-speed transmission on the rear axle, it is designed for repeat performance, not just one-off drag races.

Three main flavors exist:

• Taycan 4S (79 kWh / 93 kWh): 523 HP. RECOMMENDED The sweet spot. Plenty fast (0-100 in 4.0s) and offers the best range balance.
• Taycan Turbo / Turbo S (93 kWh): 670 - 750 HP. Earth-shattering acceleration that physically hurts. The "Turbo" name is marketing (no actual turbochargers), but the speed is real.

• Foot Garages: Porsche carved out spaces in the battery pack floor for rear passengers' feet. This allows a low seating position without cramping your legs, unlike in a Model S.
• Curved Screen: The instrument cluster is a stunning free-standing curved display. There are almost no physical buttons—even the air vents are controlled via touchscreen (which is annoying).

• Charging: Requires a high-end home wall box. The 800V system allows it to charge incredibly fast if you can find a compatible DC charger (rare in Kenya).
• Service: Electric cars have fewer moving parts, but Porsche service rates still apply for brake fluid, coolant, and inspection.
• Tyres: It is heavy (2.2 tonnes) and torquey. It eats tyres for breakfast. Expect to replace them every 15,000-20,000km.

Ground Clearance: Air suspension allows you to lift the car, but it is still a low sports sedan. The battery is the lowest point—damage it on a rock, and you are looking at a Ksh 3M+ repair bill. This is a car for the Northern Bypass, not for going to the shamba.

Top-tier safety. Reliability has been generally good, but early 2020 models had some software glitches and 12V battery issues. Ensure all software updates (and there are many) have been applied by a Porsche center.

The following are average showroom prices for fresh imports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.

Who is this for? The petrolhead who wants to go electric but hates the sterile feel of a Tesla. It drives like a Porsche. Who is it NOT for? Anyone without a dedicated, covered parking spot with a high-speed charger.