Which Model Year Taycan Should You Buy?

The Nugget

It doesn't matter what model year Taycan you buy. The J1 platform has remained mechanically consistent since its 2020 release, so limiting yourself to a specific year reduces your options unnecessarily.

Make it stick

🛠️ Mechanically, nothing has changed on the Taycan's J1 platform from 2020 to today
💻 What has improved significantly is the software, with major updates enhancing features and reliability
🔧 Focus on finding a Taycan that has had all recall work done, an updated heater, reasonable mileage, and good warranty coverage

There are internet rumors that the 2020 Taycan, as the first model year, is less reliable and "one to avoid"
However, there is no major evidence of inherent issues with the 2020 Taycans specifically
The Taycan in general is not the most reliable car, with various recalls and some common issues
But mechanically, the J1 platform has not changed significantly since 2020

The software controlling key EV functions like regen braking, battery management, and power delivery has seen significant upgrades since 2020
A major update in 2022 brought new features and capabilities to earlier model year cars
So earlier Taycans may have had more software glitches and bugs simply because the software was not as mature at release

Ensure all recall work has been completed, potentially including an updated heater (a common failure point)
Check that the car has reasonable mileage and good remaining warranty coverage, especially on the battery
An original Porsche warranty is ideal
Beyond that, don't limit yourself to certain model years - find the spec and deal that works best for you

"Mechanically, nothing has changed on the J1 platform since it's released in 2020 to today - the cars that are released and manufactured today."
"What really matters right now I think is having one that has had all the recall work done, potentially one that has got an updated heater, and of course one that doesn't have a huge amount of miles on the clock."
"It does not matter what model year car you buy... what matters are the other things I've mentioned in this video. Not limiting yourself to a specific model year is ultimately going to increase the choice that you've got of cars available and potentially get you a far better deal."

This summary contains AI-generated information and may have important inaccuracies or omissions.