The Porsche Taycan, a marvel of German engineering and electric vehicle technology, comes with a hefty price tag. Starting at over $100,000 for a base model and easily doubling for higher trims, owning a new Taycan is a significant investment. However, the rapid depreciation of these vehicles presents a unique opportunity for savvy buyers. A used Porsche Taycan, particularly pre-facelift models, can be found for significantly less than its original MSRP. We’re talking about potentially snagging a Taycan Cross Turismo with around 30,000 miles for approximately $50,000, or even a base Taycan for under $40,000. This begs the question: Is buying a used Taycan a smart financial move, or are you inheriting someone else’s problems?
Depreciation hits luxury EVs hard, and the Taycan is no exception. Several factors contribute to this, including the fast pace of technological advancement in the EV sector, government incentives favoring new EVs, and the general perception that used EVs might have diminished battery life. However, for those willing to take the plunge, the potential savings are substantial. But before you rush out to buy a used Taycan, it’s crucial to understand the potential pitfalls and maintenance considerations that come with owning a used luxury German EV.
| Model | New (MSRP) | Used (Approx.) | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Taycan | $100,300 | $40,000 | $60,300 |
| Taycan Cross Turismo (30k miles) | $120,000+ | $50,000 | $70,000+ |
To provide some real-world insight, let’s delve into the experience of Matt Farah from TheSmokingTire, who purchased what he famously called “the cheapest Porsche Taycan in the country.” Late last year, Farah acquired a 2022 Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo 4 with 26,000 miles for $64,000 plus tax. While this price was slightly above the then-current market value, the deal included a valuable four-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, providing peace of mind against potential issues. Now, nearly six months into ownership, Farah has shared an update on his experience.
Since New Year’s Eve, Farah’s white Cross Turismo has clocked an additional 5,000 miles. Encouragingly, he reports zero mechanical reliability issues – meaning no breakdowns or problems that have prevented the electric wagon from being driven. This initial period suggests that a well-maintained used Taycan can indeed be a reliable daily driver. However, the ownership experience hasn’t been entirely without quirks.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $64,000 + Tax |
| Mileage at Purchase | 26,000 miles |
| Miles Driven (6 months) | 5,000 miles |
| Mechanical Issues | None |
While the used Taycan hasn’t suffered any major mechanical failures, it’s not without its quirks. Farah points to software glitches as the primary source of frustration. One recurring issue involves the car repeatedly prompting the driver to place their hands on the steering wheel, even when they are already firmly in place. Another annoyance is the powered hatchback, which occasionally refuses to close properly and gets stuck midway. These software-related issues, while not affecting the car’s drivability, can detract from the overall luxury experience.
On the maintenance front, Farah’s Taycan has undergone several recalls performed at no cost, including a replacement of the mobile charger and a software update. Additionally, some weather stripping on one of the windows was replaced under warranty. However, not all maintenance is covered. Farah had to pay $750 for a service that included a brake fluid flush, brake pad inspection, and cabin air filter replacement. This highlights the reality that even with an EV, routine maintenance can still be a significant expense, especially for a high-performance vehicle like the Taycan.
Regarding range, Farah reports getting about 220 miles on a full charge (charged to 80% about once a week). While he admits this isn’t exceptional, it’s sufficient for his needs in Los Angeles, where short distances and heavy traffic make EVs a practical choice. He praises the car’s comfort, thanks to its air suspension, and enjoys driving it. So, is a used Porsche Taycan worth the risk? Farah’s experience suggests that it can be, provided you’re prepared for potential software glitches and ongoing maintenance costs.
| Maintenance Item | Cost | Covered by Warranty? |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Charger Replacement | $0 | Yes (Recall) |
| Software Update | $0 | Yes (Recall) |
| Weather Stripping Replacement | $0 | Yes |
| Brake Fluid Flush, Pad Inspection, Cabin Filter | $750 | No |
