The Word "Perfect" Comes to Mind

“Macan” makes you realize that "sports car" isn't a single definition. The "Macan Turbo," in particular, with its impressive 294kW (400ps) of power, is a sports car that is entirely different from the sports coupes represented by the911, a feat that commands admiration.

As many readers may know, Porsche's SUV lineup consists of theCayenneand this Macan. The first-generation Cayenne, launched in 2002, with its heavy body, left me with the impression that even Porsche needed some trial and error in the SUV segment. The Macan, launched in 2014, benefits from over a decade of experience and is wonderfully sporty.

In the Japanese market, the Macan is offered in four models: the 2-liter 4-cylinder "Macan," the 3-liter V6 "Macan S," the "Macan GTS" with increased output and torque from the same engine, and the 3.6-liter V6 "Macan Turbo."

The standard models are already quite well-executed, offering a sporty driving experience, which is part of the Macan's appeal. So, how to describe the top-tier Macan Turbo? It's difficult, but the word "perfect" comes to mind.

The Macan has a body length of 4,680mm, about 17.5cm shorter than the Cayenne (the Turbo is 4,699mm). The Turbo is powered by a 3604cc V6 twin-turbo engine at the front, producing a maximum output of 294kW (400ps) and a peak torque of 550Nm. While it's fundamentally the same unit as the "Cayenne S," the latter has higher power output.

This is a result of Porsche's marketing, which emphasizes the hierarchy between models. The Cayenne S (11.4 million yen) is equipped with an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission, differing in character from the Macan Turbo (10.28 million yen) with its 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Driving the Macan Turbo offers a thrilling experience, making you wonder what more could possibly be desired.

The Macan's fundamental appeal lies in its focus on enhancing driving quality. From the weight distribution achieved through its transmission layout to its rear-wheel-drive bias despite being all-wheel-drive, it has been meticulously engineered with sportiness as a priority. It is a sports car in the guise of an SUV.

The Joy of Feeling One with the Car

The Macan Turbo presents a peculiar sensation: the driving dynamics are those of a sports car, yet the seating position is high. It's a driving experience with a sense of mismatch, or rather, it's a unique experience only possible with the Macan Turbo.

It boasts a generous 500-liter trunk, and the interior offers ample space for four adults to relax comfortably, along with excellent sound insulation for enjoying music. Yet, it delivers explosive torque, a smooth engine that revs effortlessly, and precise handling. This seemingly impossible combination has been realized. Furthermore, its relatively compact body, at just under 4.7 meters, is also appealing.

Despite weighing two tons, the maximum torque is available from 1,350 rpm. The torque delivery is likely finely tuned, as there was no moment where the car felt heavy. You can subtly control the vehicle's speed by modulating the accelerator pedal, and the sensitive response to steering inputs further enhances the joy of feeling one with the car.

This vehicle, with a height of 1,625mm, offers handling that rivals, and even surpasses, many sedans and even some sports cars. The test car was equipped with the optional air suspension system. The suspension travel is not excessive, providing a firm, car-like ride. The driving feel is natural.

I used to think of SUVs as a somewhat rugged, urban interpretation (like pairing flannel pants with work boots), but the Macan Turbo is a sports car with a high ride height. It is that refined.

An Ergonomic Layout Designed for Sports Car-Like Operation

"As creators of sports cars, we are convinced that the driver and car becoming one is of paramount importance." This statement is prominently displayed in the interior section of the Macan Turbo's page on the Porsche website.

The ergonomic layout, prioritizing handling and designed for seamless sports car-like operation, is one of the Macan Turbo's key features. The 7-speed, dual-clutch "PDK" transmission, which allows drivers to enjoy shift changes in a racing style, also includes paddle shifters on the steering column. However, with an engine that delivers ample torque across a wide range, manual shifting isn't necessary to enjoy the acceleration.

The lightweight steering wheel, made of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic, is wrapped in a soft, comfortable leather grip designed for anti-slip at the "9 and 3 o'clock" positions. While an option, its lightness contributes to a nimble steering feel, making it a fitting feature for this fast, sports car-like model.

Porsche Macan Turbo | Porsche Macan Turbo
Body Dimensions | Length 4,699 × Width 1,925 × Height 1,625 mm
Wheelbase | 2,805 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,655 / 1,650 mm
Weight | 1,980 kg
Engine | 3,604 cc V6 Twin-Turbo
Max. Output | 294 kW (400 ps) / 6,000 rpm
Max. Torque | 550 Nm / 1,350-4,500 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed PDK
Drivetrain | 4WD
Front Suspension | Double Wishbone
Rear Suspension | Multi-link
Tires Front/Rear | 235/55R19 / 255/50R19
Brakes | Ventilated Discs
Top Speed | 266 km/h
0-100 km/h Acceleration | 4.8 seconds
Price | 10,660,000 yen