Taycan is rewarding however it’s configured

OKAY, LET’S HAVE some fun. Let’s take a break from all the worries and furrowed brows that usually surround EVs and simply enjoy the driving. Right now, there’s plenty of baggage attached to EVs, which isn’t surprising, given that one of the words most often used when discussing these machines is ‘anxiety’ (of the range variety). Then there are the concerns about the efficacy of the charging network or the lifespan of the cars’ lithium ion hearts. Worry, worry, worry.

And of course for people like us, the rapid rise of the EV is also framed against a backdrop of the slow but fairly inevitable decline of our beloved internal combustion engine and, just as likely, the multi-ratio gearboxes they’re attached to. Yes, these fossilfuel-fed devices are nothing more than a collection of thousands of bits of metal and plastics, but put together, they’re so much more. Tell me your soul isn’t stirred by a high-revving Honda VTEC or a Lamborghini’s vocal V12 and I will check you for a pulse.

Make no mistake, the internal combustion engine contributes greatly to the grin factor, but as we’re about to discover, it’s not necessarily the be-all and end-all. Yes, it’s lovely to be propelled along by a reciprocating piston engine, but if the other dynamic ingredients are right, you will be surprised by how soon you stop missing it – something that’s gloriously highlighted by our triumphant top three here.

In fact, what’s arguably most pleasantly surprising about our leading trio is that they’re all quite different in the way that they dole out driver delights. Those of us who were concerned the adoption of electrification would lead to a one-size-fits-all approach will be heartened to learn that the Porsche Taycan GTS, Kia EV6 GT and BMW i4 eDrive40 each has its own distinct characteristics and qualities. They aren’t perfect (we will get to that), but as statements of intent, there are plenty of reasons to be cheerful.