Porsche has given its Macan SUV (sports utility vehicle) an extensive update.
But looking at it from the front, you might find it hard to tell if it is the new model or the old one, despite the redesigned grille, intake apertures and headlamps, which are now LED units.
It’s far easier to tell the new Macan from the old one when seeing it from the rear. The latest model sports the full-width tail lamps that are now common across the entire Porsche range.
Inside, the biggest change is the new, larger 10.9-inch infotainment display. The optional Sports steering wheel with the sport response dial that’s part of the Sport Chrono Package, is new for the Macan range.
Other improvements are related to the connectivity for the Porsche Communication Management system. For instance, there is online navigation that takes data from the Connect Plus Module and provides real-time traffic updates.
There is a raft of driver assistance functions, such as adaptive cruise control with autonomous braking. In crawling traffic up to 65km/h there is a semi-autonomous steering function that helps you stay in your lane.
Systems such as these are precisely what buyers are looking for in a Porsche right? Well, times have changed, but Porsche still stands for an outstanding driving experience.
Indeed, despite the inclusion of these “novelty” items, the Macan has become an even better driving instrument than before.
The Porsche Macan S now puts out 350hp and 480Nm of torque
The Macan’s behaviour on the serpentine roads of Mallorca was fabulous. Despite its taller stance compared to actual sports cars, it could be flung around with such abandon and enjoyment.
I felt like the handling of older Macan S had been transferred to the base Macan, and the agility of the previous Macan Turbo has been conferred on the new Macan S.
Responsible for the enhanced dynamics of the new Macan S are the bigger wheels and tyres, as well as the lighter and stronger suspension components.
The Macan S is powered by new a turbocharged 3-litre V6 that delivers 349hp and 480Nm, or 14hp and 20Nm more than the previous model.
The power is sent to all four wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The benchmark zero to 100kmh time is now 5.1 seconds, or 0.1 of a second faster than before.
This doesn’t sound like much on paper, but really, it is hard to come back from driving it without a smile on your face. The Macan S and its ability to blend sporty handling with a decent drive ensure this.
Further proof of this is the fact that the Macan is the most successful Porsche model to date. In the four years since it was launched, over 350,000 units have been sold.
But don’t just take my word for it. A short drive in it should prove that it delivers that sporty feel that has not only eluded the rest of the SUV horde, but also some of the sports cars out there.
Porsche Macan S 3.0 (A)
Price: From $288,788 without COE
Engine: 2,995cc, V6, 24-valves, turbocharged
Power: 349hp at 5,400-6,400rpm
Torque: 480Nm at 1,360-4,800rpm
Gearbox: 7-speed dual-clutch with manual select
0-100kmh: 5.1 seconds
Top speed: 254km/h
Fuel consumption: 10.4km/L (combined)
Agent: Stuttgart Auto
