PORSCHE MACAN

OLD LEGS, BUT RUNS LIKE THE WIND

- PETER ANDERSON

WHEN IT comes to infusing Porsche DNA with an SUV, the Macan arguably does a better job of it than the Cayenne. The Macan is lighter, lithe and with a shorter, sportier wheelbase – which is why the Porsche look works better on the Macan as well.

To keep the Macan feeling fresh before an EV version arrives alongside it in 2023, Porsche has activated another update comprising interior, exterior and performance tweaks.

The changes build upon the Macan’s 2019 facelift and redesigns the front bumper around a new grille. Meanwhile, at the rear, the new bumper insert is separated into sections that better accentuate the outboard exhaust tips.

The range has also been consolidated to three variants, for now, starting off at $84,800 for the base Macan, then jumping to the Macan S at $105,800. Finally, the GTS now tops the range in lieu of a Turbo at $129,800, representing a $17,500 increase on the previous GTS.

Mechanically, Porsche has gifted the whole range extra grunt. Keep in mind all of them are all-wheel drive and equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The base variant is powered by what Porsche claims is a new turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder, offering 195kW/400Nm (up 30Nm). The S now uses the 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 that has powered the GTS since 2019, along with its 280kW/520Nm tune.

The GTS inherits the old Turbo’s 324kW/550Nm, scores new larger 21inch wheels and an upgraded Porsche Traction Management system that prioritises power to the rear. It also scores the Turbo’s tungsten-carbide coating on the brake discs, which means a harder surface and less dust.