The Zuffenhausen show their new entry-level model in the world of SUV. The Porsche Macan gets a four-cylinder in-line engine with turbocharger, which should be tailored specifically for the sporting aspirations of the brand. According to the manufacturer, consumption should be limited, while driving dynamics should be at the usual high level. But are four cylinders enough for a barely 1,8-ton heavy SUV? Especially when this SUV is labeled with the Porsche label?
Old Porsche fans will shake their heads anyway with any Cayenne or Macan. A Porsche with a high center of gravity, space for at least four people and without a six-cylinder boxer engine? A no-go for this clientele. But while these voices, which are becoming ever quieter, continue to argue about air cooling and cylinder position, the SUVs from Stuttgart in particular are selling dazzlingly - and also as diesel. So the buyer is not too interested in the old values, but above all in the image, the quality and what comes out at the back - namely the sporty driving characteristics.
The supercharged 2.0 liter delivers 252 hp between 5.000 and 6.800 revolutions and distributes this power to all fours. The standard PDK - the Porsche dual clutch transmission - sorts the gears so quickly that after just 6,7 seconds the speed is 100 km / h. With the optional Sport Chrono Package, this sprint is even two tenths faster. The end is at 229 km / h - not very much for a Porsche, but plenty for an SUV. Consumption should also keep in check with the four-cylinder turbo engine. Depending on the tires, the Porsche Macan should manage with 7,2 to 7,4 liters per 100 km according to the NEDC.
To implement this performance and the combination of sportiness and efficiency, the unit naturally has the appropriate properties. The turbocharger delivers two bar of boost pressure, has a large intercooler and injects the gasoline directly. In addition, variable control times with the VariaCam Plus help the Porsche Macan to combine sportiness with frugality by continuously adjusting the intake and exhaust camshafts. Economy is also made possible by the torque of 370 Nm, which is already available at 1.600 rpm and thus allows the PDK to select a high gear early. The standard all-wheel drive “Porsche Traction Management” is also intended to ensure the appropriate driving dynamics, with an agile chassis and precise steering ensuring fun when cornering. You can optionally choose air suspension with level control and active dampers.
By contrast, the SUV based on the Audi Q5 comes with a wide range of equipment as standard. The scope includes comfort seats that have an 8-way adjustment ready for the driver and offer a central section in Alcantara. The latest generation of Porsche Communication Management is also on board. A lane departure warning system ensures safety, while the automatic tailgate increases comfort. Visually, there is little separating the entry-level Macan from its stronger brothers. The side window strips are finished in matt black and therefore go well with the black brake calipers. In the gear train, 18-inch light alloy wheels are used as standard, while the exhaust system with two individual tailpipes made of brushed stainless steel ensures a strong finish - at least visually. If you want to experience the sound, you have to have 55.669 euros ready on the one hand and wait until June 2016 on the other.