The suspension is excellent, too, and ensures that all models are terrific fun to drive. For even more composure and better ride quality, you can add air suspension. It lowers ride height and basically enhances the car’s cruising abilities.
In terms of its engines, the Macan S diesel is an absolute steel. It’s relatively inexpensive to buy outright, delivers 258bhp, covers the 0-62 dash in 6.3 seconds, and returns 45mpg economy. It’s the sole diesel, and as the Macan’s entry-level model, it’s quite the performer.
However, the petrol engines have more sex appeal. A turbocharged 3.6-litre engine powers the Macan Turbo. It does 0-62 in less than 5.0 seconds, keeps going until 165mph, and benefits from the brand’s intelligent PASM suspension setup for sharper handling.
Add the Performance Package, and you can boost its 0-62 time to 4.4 seconds while increasing its power to 434bhp. It also adds a sports exhaust and bigger brakes for a formidable package.
The GTS Macan model gets this system as standard. Powered by a meaty twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine, it pumps out 355bhp, doesn’t cost as much as the Turbo model, but can still do 0-62 in 5.2 seconds.
As mentioned, the diesel is pretty frugal for a car of this type, but the petrol models are much more expensive to run. Porsche claim the Macan Turbo model can return 31.4mpg economy, but we reckon you’ll find that hard to match. Add the aforementioned Performance Package, and that figure gets pegged back to 29.7mpg.
Inside, comfort and insulation are both good, while the dashboard has been designed to be both sporty and durable. It should stand up to whatever you and your family throw at it, while a beautiful clock, a DAB radio and electrically adjustable seats are all highlights.
Practicality-wise, the Macan fares well. Those upfront get plenty of room, the electrically adjustable seats make it easy to get into the right seating position, while the car’s height ensures headroom is good for all. That said, adding the panoramic sunroof reduces rear seat headroom.
Three people in the back should be well accommodated, with knee room decent. There is no option for seven seats, while the boot measures 500-litres. Fold the rear seats down, and you can extend it to 1,500-litres. Its wide opening is a bonus.
Price:
Porsche – £45,900 – £69,500