Porsche’s little crossover continues to shake up the compact luxury crossover segment offering a blend of class-leading dynamics and refinement, not to mention grin-inducing performance.
Having just launched last year, the Macan carries over effectively unchanged other than the fitment of tri-zone climate control as standard equipment on both the Macan S and Macan Turbo. There’s also a new optional surround-view parking camera, which comes packaged with front and rear parking sensors. A traditional rear parking camera remains on the option list.
The entry level Macan S comes powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automated transmission and all-wheel drive. It’s one of the segment’s quickest vehicles, and boasts 340 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. If leaving everything in your dust is a priority, the Macan Turbo fits a bigger 3.6-litre V6 engine that makes a whopping 400 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. That’s as much power as the original Porsche Cayenne Turbo.
Loosely based on the same platform as the Audi Q5, the Macan rides on the same wheelbase but all other dimensions have been changed. The standard 911-inspired interior is nicely finished if a bit button heavy. Legroom and headroom in the second row is acceptable for two adults or three kids, but cargo space is down compared to its platform mate due to the sweeping fastback. It’s much more a rival to the BMW X4 than the upright X3 in this regard.
In Porsche tradition, both the Macan S and Macan Turbo can be loaded to the brim with a la carte options including adaptive air suspension, lane-keeping assist, radar cruise control, and even carbon-ceramic brakes for those destined for the racetrack. The base S remains a good value with leatherette and Alcantara power heated seats, a 7.0-inch touchscreen stereo, 918-inspired multifunction steering wheel, and xenon headlamps.
Pricing for the 2016 Macan S starts at $57,200, while the Turbo sells for $83,400.
