The sportscar among compact SUVs

The sportscar among compact SUVs

Mar 6, 2014  | Mechanical engineering 

The sportscar among compact SUVs
(Photo by: Porsche)

The new Macan is the sportscar of the compact SUV segment. A Porsche through and through, the Macan is setting benchmarks in terms of driving dynamics and enjoyment – both on paved streets and off-road terrain.

The Macan brings together the most powerful engine range in its class with the sporty seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) and one of the finest drive systems in the world – Porsche Traction Management (PTM) in conjunction with a sporty mix of tyres, fitted as standard. Furthermore, the new Porsche model line offers a choice of three sporty chassis versions, one of which features air suspension – an exclusive in the Macan’s segment.

The Macan is claiming the top spot in its segment from the very outset. The top model in the range, the Macan Turbo equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 biturbo engine and delivering an output of 400 hp (294 kW), as well as the Macan S equipped with a 3-litre V6 biturbo engine and delivering an output of 340 hp (250 kW), are defining a new performance class that competitor vehicles are yet to reach. The role of the high-torque powerhouse of the SUV trio has been assumed by the Macan S Diesel thanks to its 258-hp (190-kW) turbo diesel engine, which provides a torque of 580 Nm across a broad engine speed range. However, the Macan is not just setting the benchmark for driving dynamics – the vehicle also delivers the combination of efficiency, comfort and everyday suitability that has become a defining feature of the Porsche brand. 



The sporty DNA of the Macan, as with all Porsche vehicles, is immediately recognisable in the design. Many details are reminiscent of the iconic 911 sportscar and the technological benchmark 918 model, and the Sports Utility Vehicle is unrivalled in its flat and broad profile on the road. The wraparound bonnet and gently sloping roof line accentuate the overall impression of sporty elegance and powerful dynamics. Many of the design elements have been taken from Porsche sportscars and enhanced for the Macan, making it clear to see from the very first glance that the Porsche Macan heralds the first sportscar in the compact SUV segment.

Extensive features, unique options

The range of equipment fitted on the Macan as standard is extensive, and includes the all-wheel drive, PDK, multi-function sport steering wheel with shift paddles, large wheels, high-performance audio system and an electrically operated tailgate. The list of optional special equipment offers further exclusive highlights, such as the air suspension system: The Macan is the only vehicle in its segment to feature such a system. There is also the Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) system, which has been specially tailored to the Macan. This system distributes varying levels of drive torque to the rear wheels and works in conjunction with an electronically controlled rear-axle differential lock. The list of Porsche options includes the much sought-after dynamic high beam forming part of the Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus), which continuously adjusts the headlight level in keeping with the traffic ahead and any oncoming traffic. A choice of premium-quality audio equipment is available in the form of the optional sound systems from Burmester® and Bose. 

The Macan is "Made in Germany", produced at the Leipzig plant. Porsche has invested around EUR 500 million into the site there, expanding it into a fully-fledged plant with its own bodyshell construction facility and paint shop. The new production line is set up to produce around 50,000 vehicles per year – all manufactured with the utmost precision and to the highest level of quality. With the introduction of the Macan, Porsche is writing another chapter in its ongoing success story in Leipzig.

Via Porsche
Image,video ©: Porsche