Family Feud: Audi RS e-tron GT vs. Porsche Taycan Turbo
On paper, the Audi RS e-tron GT and the Porsche Taycan Turbo are more similar than different. But in the real world…
In the dark days of the malaise era, companies like General Motors used badge engineering to maximize profits and support multiple marques. The nadir of American badge engineering was arguably the Cadillac Cimarron, which was a Chevy Cavalier wearing Caddy crests. But while badge engineering still exists, as this new video from carwow demonstrates — at least where the Germans are concerned — there’s a lot more to the process today. Here, we get to see host Mat Watson compare an Audi RS e-tron GT and a Porsche Taycan Turbo side-by-side, and it highlights just how different the corporate cousins are.
Since the drivetrains and batteries are specced identically, it’s really all about the presentation and tuning. The RS e-tron GT, unsurprisingly, is geared more toward luxury, and the cabin reflects that. The Audi supports Android Auto while the Porsche only has Apple CarPlay, and it also has physical buttons for the climate controls, while the representative from Stuttgart makes drivers use a touchscreen in the center console to make adjustments. Clearly, the Porsche’s minimalist environs came with an ergonomic cost.
On the road, there’s a night and day difference in driving dynamics. The Porsche embodies its sports car heritage by being a much more highly strung beast, with hyper-quick steering, a taut suspension, and finely tuned brake pedal feel. In comparison, the Audi is a more iron fist in a velvet glove, making it a better choice for folks who want a well-rounded ride that can also hustle in the twisties. One big similarity between the two cars? It’s basically impossible to see out the back of either of them.
In my opinion, there’s no winner here, as both vehicles are excellent examples of the burgeoning electric super sedan market. But this video is an interesting look at modern platform tuning, so check it out and let me know which car you’d pick for your daily driver!
Photos: YouTube