Motoring News

2021 PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO S

Published

3 years ago

14 January 2022

JeffG

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2021 PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO S

By EWAN KENNEDY
BODY COPY
The German car makers are all very serious about the need to lower the emissions of greenhouse gases, so are working hard on reducing them by designing electric vehicles. As a high-performance marque Porsche is one of the leaders in the field.

Hence the introduction of the all-electric Taycan high-performance sedan – yes sedan, this is a four-door family car, not a two-door coupe.

Porsche tells us the name Taycan is composed of two terms of Turkic origin and can be roughly translated as “soul of a spirited young horse.” Porsche tells us its first fully-electric model will be: “lively, impetuous, vigorous, light-footed on long stretches without tiring, and free-spirited.”

Okay, this may sound like a bit of over-blown waffle to we down-to-earth Aussies, but once we drove it, we did tend to agree with the way the Porsche Taycan felt. See our comments on this in the Driving segment of this report.

STYLING
Taycan looks slightly odd at the front to my eyes, with its slightly bulbous “bonnet” and the vertical lines beside the headlights. Beauty is of course in the eyes of the beholder and others may love it.

I reckon the rear is much better from a styling point of view, with a swooping coupe-like tail and a large black sunroof which merges beautifully with the black glass of the rear window.

INTERIOR

2021 PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO S Interior

There’s a very wide dash array, with three screens. The one in front of the driver is large and contains plenty of information on the Taycan’s state of play. The centre screen gives access to numerous features, including speed, current power consumption, distance to empty, navigation and temperature control.

The left screen is in front of the passenger and lets them keep an eye on the map to assist with navigation.

There more space inside than you might expect, partly due to the fact that it’s almost five metres long. There’s seating for four and those in the back won’t have to ask those in front of them to give up any of their space. However, tall people in the back might brush against the roof.

The front seats are heated and cooled and are nicely shaped to support without being too aggressive.

INFOTAINMENT
A 14-speaker Bose audio provides excellent output and we found it easy to adjust it to our preferences.

POWERTRAIN
There are two electric motors one at the front the other at the rear. The front has a 175kW/400Nm on the Turbo S, the rear provides up to 335kW and 550Nm when it’s over boosted to give even more grunt.

The range of the Turbo S is rated as 390 to 416 kilometres by Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure.

As a strong selling point the Taycan in Australia is that it comes with a free three-year Chargefox subscription.

SAFETY
Porsche Taycan was awarded a five-star safety rating by Euro NCAP in 2019.

DRIVING

2021 PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO S Interior

We have always enjoyed the way electric powered vehicles leap off the line and have tremendous torque – but the Taycan is something else again. Zero to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds!

The first time I did it my head was thumped back into the headrest and my neck felt strained. I didn’t make that mistake again, making sure it was against the headrest – thereby avoiding the neck strain and enjoying to the full the dragster-like performance.

Back when I was a young fella road testing high-performance cars in the 1970s anything under six seconds to 60mph (97 km/h) and quicker than 15 seconds for the quarter mile was the goal. And that need a large hot V8.

This electric Porsche is well under three seconds to 100 km/h, and single figures for the quarter mile. How times have changed.

On the road Taycan has clever electronics to assist cornering by feeding just the right torque front and rear and side to side. You can feel it happening but we didn’t have access to a race track to test it to the limits. Maybe some other time…

Comfort is good for a high-performance car and keep in mind that this is a four-door sedan not a two-door sports coupe. On some surfaces there a fair bit of tyre noise, on others it’s as peaceful as any upmarket mid-size luxury vehicle.

THE FIRST PORSCHE ELECTRIC CAR

Egger-Lohner C.2 Phaeton

The Taycan isn’t the first Porsche electric car. In 1898 Ferdinand Porsche designed the Egger-Lohner C.2 Phaeton. The vehicle was powered by an octagonal electric motor with three to five horsepower. It had a top speed of 25 km/h.

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE
Taycan RWD sedan: $156,300
Taycan 4S AWD sedan: $194,700
Taycan Turbo AWD sedan: $276,300
Taycan Turbo S AWD sedan: $345,800
Taycan Cross 4 Turismo: $176,600
Taycan Cross 4S Turismo: $205,300
Taycan Cross Turbo Turismo: $279,000
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Porsche dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Porsche Taycan electric four-door sedan)

ENGINE:
Capacity: Not applicable
Configuration: Not applicable
Maximum Power: 560 kW
Maximum Torque: 1050 Nm
Fuel Type: Not applicable
Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): L/100km
CO2 Emissions: g/km

DRIVELINE: Two-speed automatic

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:
Length: 4963 mm
Wheelbase: 2900 mm
Width: 1966 mm
Height: 1378 mm
Turning Circle: Not supplied
Kerb Mass: 2295 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity: Not applicable litres

BRAKES:
Front: Ventilated disc
Rear: Ventilated disc

STANDARD WARRANTY:
Three years / unlimited kilometres

RATINGS
Looks: 7/10
Performance: 10/10
Safety: 9/10
Thirst : 6/10 **
Practicality: 8/10
Comfort: 8/10
Tech: 9/10
Value: 7/10

** Note that we have rated Thirst low because its range is well under that of a conventional car.

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2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure

Published

2 weeks ago

25 September 2024

Liam

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2025 Smart #5 Electric SUV Revealed: The Future of Outdoor Adventure

By Jeff Gibbs

The all-new 2025 Smart #5 electric SUV is set to revolutionise the way people experience the outdoors, combining cutting-edge electric technology with features designed for adventure. Created through a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely (Volvo’s parent company), the “hashtag five” is poised to change weekend getaways with a unique blend of off-road capability, luxury, and tech.

Power and Range At the heart of the Smart #5 is a massive 100kWh battery, offering an impressive range of more than 700 kilometres on a single charge. But this vehicle isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s equipped to power outdoor adventures. The Smart #5 can run a variety of appliances, including a fridge, movie projector, and a high-fidelity stereo, making it an ideal companion for camping trips and outdoor escapes.

Design and Off-Road Capability Sized similarly to a Subaru Forester, the Smart #5 is designed for mild off-road tasks with all-wheel-drive traction and ample ground clearance. For those looking to push further into the wild, an optional off-road pack draws inspiration from the Land Rover Defender, featuring practical additions like a fold-down ladder, rooftop cargo tray, and external storage for muddy or wet gear.

Luxurious Interior and Advanced Technology Inside, the Smart #5 offers a premium experience with a digital dashboard and two high-resolution AMOLED displays. The SUV also boasts an augmented reality head-up display, giving drivers enhanced navigation and information at a glance. Powered by a water-cooled computer processor, the system can run movies and video games, turning the car into an entertainment hub for remote locations.

2025 Smart #5 Interior

The vehicle’s heated seats come with a massage function and can fold flat to create a “king size” sleeping space — perfect for overnight stays, though likely not quite as large as a traditional mattress. Adding to the luxurious feel, the Sennheiser surround sound system provides immersive audio, while a cute electronic avatar acts as a digital assistant, similar to Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri.

Innovative Features for Outdoor Adventures One of the standout features is the built-in movie projector, which, combined with the climate-controlled cabin, offers a unique way to relax under the stars. The SUV’s robust electrical system also allows it to power various appliances, transforming campsites into high-tech getaways.

Launch and Market Plans Though pricing details have not been confirmed, industry expectations suggest the Smart #5 could approach the $100,000 mark, especially given its extensive features and capabilities. This places it above the smaller Smart #1 and Smart #3 models.

The brand’s decision to debut the model globally in Byron Bay, Australia, underscores its intent to bring the Smart #5 to the Australian market. After its initial release in China later this year, production for Australia is expected to begin in 2025, with journalists from Europe and Asia already traveling to see the model in person.

With its combination of eco-friendly electric power, innovative tech, and off-road capability, the 2025 Smart #5 promises to be a game-changer in the electric SUV market, catering to those who want to explore the outdoors without sacrificing comfort or modern conveniences.

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Local News

Polestar 4: A Bold New Entry in the Electric SUV Market

Published

2 weeks ago

19 September 2024

Liam

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Polestar 4: A Bold New Entry in the Electric SUV Market

By Jeff Gibbs

The Polestar 4 is the latest addition to Polestar’s growing lineup of electric vehicles, positioned as a dynamic all-electric SUV coupé that combines cutting-edge design, high performance, and advanced technology. Sitting between the Polestar 2 and the luxury Polestar 3, the Polestar 4 is set to push boundaries with its futuristic aesthetics and sustainable innovations.

Design and Aesthetics

The Polestar 4 embodies a sleek, coupe-like profile with a focus on aerodynamics and a minimalist design philosophy. In a departure from traditional SUV styling, the Polestar 4 embraces a lower, more streamlined shape with smooth lines, frameless windows, and a bold front end devoid of a traditional grille, highlighting its fully electric nature.

One of the most striking features of the Polestar 4 is its rear-windowless design, which replaces the traditional rear window with a digital rearview camera, enhancing both the car’s futuristic look and its aerodynamic efficiency.

Performance and Powertrain

The Polestar 4 is expected to offer dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations, delivering a strong combination of power and efficiency. While specific power outputs are yet to be fully disclosed, early indications suggest that the Polestar 4 will offer a significant amount of power, rivalling other high-performance electric SUVs in its class.

With a long-range battery pack, the Polestar 4 is expected to provide an impressive range, making it suitable for both urban commutes and long-distance journeys. Fast-charging capabilities will also feature, allowing for quick top-ups on long drives.

Interior and Technology

Polestar has equipped the 4 with a high-tech, eco-friendly interior that emphasises sustainability. The cabin will feature recycled and vegan materials, aligning with the brand’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Polestar’s signature Scandinavian-inspired design ensures a clean, sophisticated interior with intuitive controls and ample space.

A large infotainment screen, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, will dominate the dashboard, offering seamless integration with apps such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other connected services. Polestar’s digital experience will also be enhanced with over-the-air (OTA) updates, allowing for continuous improvements to software features post-purchase.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Polestar vehicles are known for their focus on safety, and the Polestar 4 will likely feature the brand’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This could include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and advanced collision avoidance technologies. The inclusion of autonomous driving features, similar to the Polestar 3, is also anticipated, further enhancing the vehicle’s safety credentials.

Sustainability Focus

In keeping with Polestar’s sustainability goals, the Polestar 4 will prioritise eco-friendly manufacturing processes and materials. The company has set ambitious targets for reducing its carbon emissions and increasing the use of recycled materials throughout the vehicle’s construction.

Market and Availability

The Polestar 4 is expected to launch in 2024, with deliveries beginning shortly after in key global markets, including Europe, the U.S., and China. Positioned between the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 in terms of price and size, the Polestar 4 aims to appeal to customers seeking a stylish, performance-oriented electric SUV without compromising on sustainability or luxury.

As Polestar continues to expand its portfolio, the new model represents a significant step in the brand’s vision of redefining the electric vehicle market with innovative, sustainable, and high-performance cars.

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Local News

2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range

Published

2 weeks ago

19 September 2024

Liam

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2025 Audi e-tron GT Unveiled: Massive Power Boost and Enhanced Range

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2025 Audi e-tron GT has been officially revealed, showcasing a significant power boost, extended driving range, and updated styling. Set to arrive in European showrooms later this year, with Australian launch dates yet to be confirmed, the updated electric sedan offers cutting-edge performance and luxurious features.

The refreshed e-tron GT now includes two key variants: the S e-tron GT and the top-of-the-line RS e-tron GT Performance. Both models benefit from a technical overhaul, with the RS Performance boasting a staggering 680kW of power, making it the most powerful Audi road car to date. Powered by a new 97kWh battery, the e-tron GT offers up to 604km of driving range, a notable improvement thanks to new battery cell chemistry and recuperation capabilities.

Performance Highlights:

The S e-tron GT delivers 500kW, an increase of 110kW over the previous base model, while the RS e-tron GT ramps up to 630kW. The top-tier RS e-tron GT Performance pushes output to 680kW, making it just shy of the 700kW figure from its Porsche Taycan Turbo S sibling.
The 0-100km/h sprint has been cut to just 2.5 seconds in the RS Performance, while the S and RS variants clock in at 3.4 and 2.8 seconds, respectively.
The upgraded battery system allows for 320kW DC fast charging, which can add 280km of range in just 10 minutes.

Mechanical and Technological Enhancements Audi has introduced a lighter rear motor and a new two-chamber adaptive air suspension system, providing a refined balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension system is shared with the Porsche Taycan, and it actively adjusts to enhance cornering and acceleration.

2025 Audi e-tron GT Interior

The braking system has also been overhauled, with larger steel brakes on the S e-tron GT, while the RS and RS Performance models come with tungsten carbide-coated or carbon-ceramic discs, respectively.

The RS Performance features a carbon-fibre roof, optional ‘carbon camouflage’ exterior trim, and a glass roof with liquid-crystal film, which can shift from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button.

Interior and Styling Updates Inside, Audi has upgraded the cabin with a new steering wheel, 18-way adjustable seats with massaging functions, and the use of eco-friendly materials like Dinamica suede and recycled Cascade fabric. Audi has also introduced fresh dashboard trim inlays and updated the digital instrument cluster with new displays for battery temperature and performance metrics.

On the exterior, the 2025 e-tron GT sports revised front bumpers, larger air intakes on the RS, and an optional black grille. It also debuts Audi’s new simplified four-ring logo, along with new 20-inch and 21-inch alloy wheels inspired by the 1991 Audi Avus concept car.

With these significant upgrades, Audi is positioning the 2025 e-tron GT as a high-performance electric sedan that combines luxury, cutting-edge technology, and thrilling power, solidifying its place as a strong competitor in the premium electric vehicle market.

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