Porsche’s new Taycan model year gets simulated gearshift – for an additional charge

Porsche has unveiled the 2027 Taycan, with the new optional 'E-Shift' mode among the most notable updates. As expected, the refreshed electric sports car gains a virtual gearbox, though customers must pay extra for the feature. Porsche has not introduced major technical changes, but new tyres are claimed to increase range by up to 20 kilometres. The updated Taycan is available to order now.

Porsche has introduced a series of updates for the new Taycan model year. Among them, the single-motor entry-level variants are now available with low rolling-resistance summer tyres. According to Porsche, this increases the vehicle’s range by up to 20 kilometres. Combined with the Performance Battery Plus, the Taycan can now achieve up to 700 kilometres of WLTP range for the first time.

The infotainment system has also been refined for the new model year. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system now offers up to five times the computing power of its predecessor, resulting in faster response times, smoother menu navigation, and a noticeably improved overall performance. Porsche has also enhanced the voice control system to cover navigation, vehicle functions, media, and selected apps in the future, supported by the AI-driven Voice Pilot.

Porsche has also enhanced the Taycan’s digital features. Owners can now download infotainment system upgrades entirely ‘over the air’. In addition, the wireless charging tray for smartphones now delivers up to 25 watts of charging power, enabling charging speeds up to 1.5 times faster than before.

However, these are all minor adjustments. According to the manufacturer, the update does not alter the model structure or pricing. The Taycan remains available as a coupé saloon, Sport, or Cross Turismo in a total of 18 variants, with power outputs ranging from 300 to 760 kW. Prices continue to range between €102,600 and €241,100.

Despite these modest changes, one new feature—previously unmentioned and available for an extra €1,000—has attracted attention and sparked controversy: the Taycan now includes a virtual gearbox that simulates gear shifts with noticeable jerking sensations. This nod to the petrol era is paired with a reinterpreted sports sound and a virtual rev counter.

The so-called E-Shift mode is operated via two shift paddles on the steering wheel and offers eight driving modes, complete with the familiar traction interruption of a combustion engine. It is included as standard in the top-of-the-range Turbo GT model, while in all other versions, it is available as an optional extra for around €1,000. Rumours about Porsche developing a fake gearshift have been circulating for some time. Recently, Frank Moser, the model line director for Porsche’s two-door models, the 718 and 911, praised such a feature in an interview with The Drive.

electrek.co, newsroom.porsche.com