Porsche Taycan Upgraded: E-Shift Virtual Transmission and Other Toys
► New E-Shift option for Porsche Taycan EV ► Updated infotainment, 435-mile tyres ► First ever factory-fit Manthey Kit
Porsche has put a proper bit of effort into this 2027 model year update for the Taycan EV. While it may not look any different – unless you go for the new factory-fit Manthey Racing option on your Turbo GT – there are changes within that should bring a significant upgrade to the Taycan’s already superlative performance.
Chief of which is the introduction of an E-Shift system. Available on every model.
This, you won’t be hard-pressed to guess, is a virtual transmission of similar ethos to that proven virtuous by the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. In addition, Porsche has a new infotainment system, while a new set of summer tyres boosts the driving range of rear-wheel-drive models to approximately 435 miles (700km) WLTP.
Oooh – tell us more about the Taycan E-Shift
E-Shift takes the Taycan’s physical two-speed transmission and turns it into one with eight virtual gears, controlled by paddles on the steering wheel. As per the 5 N (and 6 N and, to a lesser extent, the Kia EV6 GT), this coding includes ‘realistic’ simulation of ‘noticeable gear-shift jerks, gear-specific drag torque – comparable to the engine-braking behaviour of a combustion-engined car – and a virtual rev limiter ensure authentic feedback.’
A new Porsche Electric Sport Sound adapts to this behaviour outside as well as inside the car, assisting with the experience. The E-Shift mode is activated by a dedicated button. You also get a virtual rev counter and gear indicator display in the instrument panel.
Porsche E-Shift only comes as standard on the Taycan Turbo GT, but the necessary ‘GT-sports steering wheel with paddles’ is an option right across the range. Each version has specific ‘transmission mapping and sound characteristics’ to match the various levels of performance. Intriguing.
And the new infotainment system?
This enhancement to the Porsche Communications Management (PCM) setup is called Porsche Digital Interaction (Porsche DI, rather than PDI – presumably to avoid confusion with pre-delivery inspections), and is the same as that already available in the Macan Electric and Cayenne Electric.
As well as clearer graphics you also get a 3D model of the car in a colour that matches the real one, functioning as a focal point for interacting with the various customisable systems and controls. There are also widgets, themes, and broader integration with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, plus improved OEM navigation.
An increased number of apps, improved, AI-powered voice control with more conversational interaction, and a more powerful 25W magnetic wireless charger for your phone round out the upgrades.
What about those tyres?
These are a new ‘summer tyres range plus’ option available for 20-inch wheels.
When fitted to entry-level rear-wheel drive versions of the Taycan saloon and Sports Turismo, their reduced rolling resistance is worth an extra 12 miles of driving range per charge, bringing the total up to that theoretical 435 with the Performance Battery Plus.
And finally… the Manthey Kit?
This is the first time Porsche has offered to factory fit a Manthey performance package – though it’s available as a retro-fit, too. Only applicable to the GT Turbo with Weissach Package, this includes a distinctive set of aero upgrades as well as changes to the chassis and the powertrain.
An adjustable front diffuser and rear wing, new rear diffuser and larger underbody air deflectors can more than triple the available downforce from 95kg to 310kg at 124mph; the carbon aero discs on the rear wheels aero-boost efficiency. Top speed increases from 189.5 to 192.6mph.
The specific 21-inch alloys are lighter than the standard 20-inch items and together with the included titanium wheelbolts save 3kg from the unsprung mass – though at the same time the brake discs get bigger, which might balance that out a bit. The entire chassis setup – which includes retuned Porsche Active Ride air suspension – has been recalibrated to suit.
You also get more power, thanks to some very specific fiddling with the powertrain. This sees the standard output boosted by 20kW to 600kW (804bhp) while Attack Mode is now 730kW (979bhp) in 10-second bursts, 30kW more than before. There’s torque boost during launch control as well, which is pretty much the last thing this car needed.
The result of all this was a new Nürburgring lap record for the ‘electric executive car’ class of 6:55.533 – nine seconds faster than the previous record holder, and 12 seconds faster than the Turbo GT Weissach (with the same driver).
And what price all this glory?
Although the 2027MY Taycan is said to be available to order now, there’s as yet no sign of it on the UK configurator. We’ll update you when we know.
