Porsche Macan unveiled at LA motor show 2013, Indian launch in 2014
Porsche has unveiled the new Macan, its second SUV and fifth model on sale overall. The Macan is built on Audi's Q5 platform and Porsche will roll out the first set of this SUV from its Leipzig factory, which already manufactures the Panamera and Cayenne.
Typical Porsche design cues can be seen in the Macan. In fact, one can't be faulted for calling the Macan a baby-Cayenne, except for perhaps an awful lack of imagination. And just like the Cayenne, this one is a sports car in SUV's clothing. The sporty pretensions are accentuated by the wraparound bonnet and gently sloping roof line.
The Macan can also be ordered with 21-inch wheels (regular 19-inchers) with mixed width tyres. At the rear, the lights are LEDs with the diffuser being flanked by twin tail pipes, the size of which depends on the Macan variant selected.
Speaking of variants, there are three on offer distinguished by their engine specifications - S Diesel, S and Turbo. The least powerful of the three is the S Diesel with a 3.0-litre V6 engine which makes 258PS and claims a 0-100kmph dash in 6.3 seconds. The next in line is the 3.0-litre V6 bi-turbo engine (the S) which is good for 340PS and takes 5.2 seconds for the 0-100kmph run. The range-topping Turbo version boasts 400PS of max power. It completes the run to 100kmph in just 4.8 seconds. Porsche PDK double-clutch transmission is fitted as standard for all the variants and so is Porsche Traction Management (PTM) active all-wheel drive. An optional Sports Chrono package further drops the 0-100kmph timing by a tenth of a second. Porsche says that despite the performance notions of the Macan, it still delivers best in class fuel efficiency figures.
The interiors are typically Porsche with a multi-function steering wheel. Here also, the configuration depends on the trim you choose. For example, the S has a piano black package with Alcantara seats, while the Turbo S has adaptive sports seats done in leather. Powered seats with memory functions that can be adjusted in 18 ways are standard in the Turbo. As far as riding comfort goes, Porsche offers the Macan with an air suspension which at Normal mode lowers the ground clearance by 15mm, while at High level raises the height by 40mm. The maximum possible ground clearance is 230mm, which can be activated between 0-80kmph.
The Macan is priced at $43,300 (US) and will be Porsche's star attraction at the upcoming Auto Expo 2014 in Delhi.