The Macan is a rip-roaring, road-shredding beast of an SUV. Its name comes from the Indonesian word for tiger - and it’s just as dominant and ready to pounce as the predatory feline itself!
The Macan is the first Porsche model to break into the compact SUV segment. Indeed, it sets new standards in the field of driving dynamics and enjoyment – on both sealed surfaces and uneven terrain. The sporting DNA of the Macan, as with all Porsche vehicles, is also immediately recognisable in the design.
The motor is unrivalled in its low, broad profile on the road. The wraparound bonnet and gently sloping roofline accentuate the overall impression of sporting elegance and potent dynamics. Many of the design elements have been taken from other Porsche sports cars and enhanced for the Macan, making it obvious to see from the very first glance that the Porsche Macan heralds the first sports car in the compact SUV segment.
The focus on agility continues into the Macan’s cabin. Sophisticated lines, precise transitions and high-quality workmanship create a harmonious fusion of athleticism, quality and elegance, while also subtly and stylishly emphasising the expansive stance of the car.
From the low front seats, the sloping centre console, the display and operation concept through to the extensive range of customisation options, the interior offers both a sense of familiarity and striking new features. In the driver’s seat, you’re aware that it ensconces you like a true sports car’s seat should.
Your eye is immediately drawn to the multi-function sports steering wheel, the design of which is based on the 918 Spyder. Additional multi-function buttons fitted for the telephone, radio and onboard computer, together with the ergonomically-positioned shift paddles, ensure your hands are free to stay on the steering wheel, helping you concentrate on the road ahead.
Three round dials with a centrally positioned tachometer combine to form the instrument cluster. The right-hand tube is home to the high-resolution colour display. The buttons for the most important functions are clustered in logical groups on the centre console, allowing for simple and intuitive operation of individual functions.
My test car, the Macan S, came equipped with a 3.0-litre V6 bi-turbo engine delivering 340 bhp. It also featured Porsche Traction Management (PTM) active all-wheel drive with an electronically controlled, map-controlled multi-plate clutch. This all-wheel drive is fitted on all Macan models.
A seven-speed double-clutch transmission transfers power as required and almost without any interruption in tractive force. This results in blistering acceleration and enables a 0 to 62 mph sprint of 5.4 seconds.
The mighty Macan then reaches a top speed of 158 mph, yet, surprisingly, fuel consumption figures are in the low 30s. Indeed, behind its leather-wrapped wheel, the Macan combines the typical handling characteristics that Porsche has represented right from the outset.
It possesses maximum acceleration and braking values, vast engine power, extreme agility and optimum steering precision. What's more, all of these features are teamed with a high level of comfort and everyday suitability.
Pros ‘n’ Cons
- Powerful v
- Practical v
- Entertaining v
- Build Quality v
- Costly X
Fast Facts
- Max speed: 158mph
- 0-62 mph: 5.4 secs
- Combined mpg: 31.4
- Engine: 2997cc 6 cylinder petrol
- Max. power (bhp): 335
- Max. torque (lb/ft): 339
- CO2: 212 g/km
- Price: £43,300
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