Test Drive: The New Porsche Macan on Mallorca | Porsche

Porsche Macan | The Porsche Macan

Test Drive: The New Porsche Macan on Mallorca

First introduced by Porsche in 2013the compact SUV,Macanbecame a global hit, partly thanks to the SUV boom. Motor journalist Tatsuya Kushima test drove the latest model, which received a minor update and was announced at the Paris Motor Show in October 2018, on the island of Mallorca, Spain.

Text by KUSHIMA TatsuyaPhotographs by Porsche

Lighting Elements Redesigned Similar to Panamera and Cayenne

The "Macan," Porsche's urban compact SUV, is undeniably popular not only in Japan but worldwide. From its release in 2013 to the end of 2017, cumulative global sales exceeded 318,000 units. Indeed, I recall the significant buzz surrounding its debut.

Therefore, this first minor change has been a process of evolutionary refinement. Naturally, there's no need to drastically alter a model that sells so well. Andit had its Japan premiere on December 19, 2018.Sales are expected to begin around the summer of 2019.

I had the opportunity to test drive the new Macan at an international media test drive event held on Mallorca, Spain, last November. I was thrilled to get behind the wheel so soon after its announcement at the Paris Motor Show in October.

The most notable exterior change is to the lighting. This includes the four-point LED headlights and the rear combination lamps, designed to connect the left and right sides with a single line.

At night, the headlights emit four points of light, asserting its membership in the Porsche family. This design is also seen in thePanameraandCayenne, and992 "911", which also feature similar three-dimensional rear light units. The rear view unmistakably identifies it as a new-generation Porsche. Other changes include the bumpers and exhaust tips, but they are less prominent compared to the front and rear lighting.

While interior changes are minor, the elongated central monitor on the instrument panel is a significant point. The air vents, previously located to the sides of the monitor, have been moved below, allowing for a wider screen. This naturally enhances visibility and usability.

Porsche Macan | The Porsche Macan

Test Drive: The New Porsche Macan on Mallorca (2)

Driving Performance Clearly Evolved from the Previous Model

So, how has the driving performance changed?

This minor change involved significant updates to the chassis and powertrain. I test drove the "Macan" and "Macan S." As before, the Macan is equipped with a 2-liter inline-4 turbo engine, and the Macan S with a 3-liter V6 turbo, both paired with the 7-speed PDK.

However, the Macan S's V6 unit has been upgraded from the previous model's 340 ps and 460 Nm to 354 hp and 480 Nm for both maximum output and torque. For reference, only the 2-liter Macan was announced in Japan, producing a maximum output of 252 ps and maximum torque of 370 Nm. The lineup is expected to expand sequentially with the Macan S and Macan Turbo.

Nevertheless, the driving experience felt distinctly different from the previous model. The increased body rigidity seems to have stabilized cornering behavior, providing a greater sense of confidence. The joy of steering has also doubled, likely allowing for higher cornering speeds.

Delving deeper, the new model features optimized anti-roll bars, springs, and dampers, along with a partial aluminum front suspension contributing to a 1.5 kg weight reduction. Indeed, the benefits of the refined suspension are directly reflected in the steering response.

Porsche Macan | The Porsche Macan

Test Drive: The New Porsche Macan on Mallorca (3)

New Generation Porsche Communication Management Equipped as Standard

The ride comfort has also significantly improved. The test vehicles in Spain were equipped with large 20-inch wheels for the Macan and 21-inch for the Macan S, yet neither exhibited any superficial harshness or choppiness, both offering enhanced comfort over the previous model.

The standard wheels are 18 inches, but even with these, daily use should be unproblematic. The Macan S, in particular, with its air suspension, provided a firm road feel while maintaining a remarkably smooth ride. Driving at slower speeds felt akin to a luxury sedan. This would be the choice for long drives.

This concludes my first impression of the new Macan driven on Mallorca. Regardless, the way it becomes one with the driver the longer you own it is truly Porsche.

We also need to consider how many of the latest interface and comfort features will be included in the Japanese specifications. However, the Japanese announcement materials state that the new generation Porsche Communication Management (PCM), which connects to the internet at all times, will be standard. Additionally, it will feature voice recognition for setting navigation destinations simply by speaking. In essence, usability appears to be uncompromised. Moreover, the fact that these added features come without a price increase is also appealing.

I've heard that many Macan owners are new to the Porsche brand, and in that sense, the Macan has successfully established itself as an entry-level model. Porsche, aware of this, has poured immense effort into this vehicle. It is truly remarkable.