Porsche Macan: performance, motor & drive
The Macan drives exactly like a Porsche should, electric or otherwise
Rather than just focussing on all-out power, Porsche’s engineers have given the Macan a satisfying level of driver engagement, too. The steering is well-weighted and precise, the acceleration is brisk but easy to modulate, and the brakes go through a silky smooth transition between regenerative and mechanical operation. The level of stopping power from the regenerative braking system isn’t adjustable, though.
The suspension is quite firm, which means the Macan can quickly become unsettled over potholes and bumpier road surfaces at lower speeds. Once it hits the motorway, though, Porsche’s baby SUV settles down into a much more refined and compliant cruiser.
Our test car was fitted with the base 20-inch wheels as well as optional air suspension, and these do help to settle things down at lower speeds. However, the air suspension is a £2,064 option on the entry-level Macan 4.
Porsche Macan 0-62mph, top speed and acceleration
Although it’s more likely to be used as an upmarket family car rather than an all-out performance machine, the Macan still provides plenty of oomph (this is a Porsche after all). The dual-motor powertrain produces 402bhp and 650Nm of torque in the standard Macan 4, and this will propel it from 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds and then onto a top speed of 137mph.
Those are certainly respectable numbers, but those who like to combine the school run with a rapid trip down a German Autobahn will be better catered for by the Turbo variant instead. This uses the same powertrain but power is boosted to 630bhp and 1,130Nm of torque. As you’d expect, this slashes the 0-62mph sprint time to a ferocious 3.3 seconds, while the top speed stands at 162mph.
Handling
There’s no mistaking that this is a bulky SUV, and the Macan’s hefty kerb weight does have a noticeable impact on its agility. Helping to keep this contained, the new model’s centre of gravity is 140mm than the previous model’s.
As well as its lower centre of gravity, the Macan offers up plenty of grip to go with its direct steering. It all makes the car consistently enjoyable and capable in the corners.
