S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
Sport Edition AWD
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
Turbo Performance Package 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
GTS 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
Sport Edition AWD
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
GTS 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
Don’t want to go far?
Find all cars near me?S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
GTS 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
Overall Rating
2018 Porsche Macan generates 252 horsepower, while the top engine skyrockets to 440 ponies. All-wheel-drive comes standard along with a seven speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The base price is $ 47,000.
If you ever wondered just how much power a compact SUV can have on tap, get ready because Porsche just might have answered the question for you. The 2018 Porsche Macan is a sports car hiding in an SUV's clothing. Providing thrilling performance and exquisite quality that's synonymous with Porsche, the Macan is easily one of the best compact SUVs in the market right now.
Like every other automobile, the Macan does have some flaws, though. It struggles with rear-seat legroom and cargo space, along with the absence of some of the standard features like Android Auto that is quite common in almost every affordable vehicle in the market. Not to mention its high price. The Audi Q5 and the Mercedes GLC 300 are a couple of worthy rivals that can be considered.
Although even the base trim comes equipped with a decent amount of standard features and moving higher up the trim adds even more features, but to truly make the Macan your own you'll have to go through Macan's extensive options list. The options list brings the Macan's top trim's features as add-ons to the base trims, as well as adds countless trim, color, and material customization choices.
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
GTS 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
S 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
GTS 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
2018 Porsche Macan generates 252 horsepower, while the top engine skyrockets to 440 ponies. All-wheel-drive comes standard along with a seven speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The base price is $ 47,000.
If you ever wondered just how much power a compact SUV can have on tap, get ready because Porsche just might have answered the question for you. The 2018 Porsche Macan is a sports car hiding in an SUV's clothing. Providing thrilling performance and exquisite quality that's synonymous with Porsche, the Macan is easily one of the best compact SUVs in the market right now.
Like every other automobile, the Macan does have some flaws, though. It struggles with rear-seat legroom and cargo space, along with the absence of some of the standard features like Android Auto that is quite common in almost every affordable vehicle in the market. Not to mention its high price. The Audi Q5 and the Mercedes GLC 300 are a couple of worthy rivals that can be considered.
The 2018 Porsche Macan is available in 5 trim levels: the base, S, and Sport Edition. An All-Wheel Drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission are standard across the trims.
Trims |
Macan |
Macan S |
Macan Sport Edition |
---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$ 47,800 |
$ 55,400 |
$60,400 |
Key Features |
18-inch Macan wheels |
All Features of Macan, plus: |
Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) |
Four-piston aluminum monobloc fixed calipers at the front, single-piston floating calipers at the rear. |
18-inch Macan S wheels. |
Driveline Traction Control |
|
Porsche Traction Management (PTM) active all-wheel drive. |
Six-piston aluminum monobloc fixed calipers at the front, single-piston floating calipers at the rear. |
Auto-dimming day-night rearview mirror |
|
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). |
|
Adaptive Headlights | |
Porsche Communication Management (PCM). |
|||
SPORT button. |
The Macan gets fancier as you move up the trim levels, but it also gets expensive. While the base level starts at $48,000, the top-end trim starts at $ 87,000. And that price is without any customization! Keeping the performance to price ratio in mind, the Macan S seems like a nice buy. It has more power and capability than most would ever need, while still being docile enough for everyday drives. It also has access to a long list of options out of which the Premium Package Plus best suits the Macan S.
We Recommend
Although even the base trim comes equipped with a decent amount of standard features and moving higher up the trim adds even more features, but to truly make the Macan your own you'll have to go through Macan's extensive options list. The options list brings the Macan's top trim's features as add-ons to the base trims, as well as adds countless trim, color, and material customization choices.
The Macan uses five different engines for the different trim levels. The base model of the Macan is the first one ever to use a 4 cylinder engine. Now, this engine may look underpowered on paper, but it has enough power to propel the Macan from 0 - 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds. All other models use a V6 motor.
The S and GTS models use a 3-liter twin-turbocharged V6, and the Turbo and Turbo with Performance Package use a larger 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged V6. All engines are teamed with an AWD drivetrain and a 7-speed PDK automatic transmission. The following table compares the base Macan's engine with the base engines of other competitors:
Model |
Porsche Macan |
Jaguar F-Pace |
Audi Q5 |
Mercedes GLC 300 |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$ 47,800 |
$ 42,065 |
$ 41,500 |
$ 40,050 |
Engine |
2.0 Liter Turbocharged Inline 4 |
2.0 Liter Turbocharged Inline 4 |
2.0 Liter TFSI Inline 4 |
2.0 Liter turbo Inline 4 |
Transmission |
7 Speed Automatic |
8 Speed Automatic |
7 Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic |
9 Speed G-Tronic Automatic |
Power |
252 hp @ 5000 rpm |
247 hp @ 5500 rpm |
252 hp @ 5000 rpm |
241 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Torque |
273 ft-lbs. @ 1600 rpm |
269 lb-ft @ 1,200 rpm |
273 ft-lbs. @ 1600 rpm |
273 ft-lbs. @ 1300 rpm |
The Macan is more of a sports car than an SUV, so it's no surprise that each engine matches or beats the acceleration and power of almost every class rival. The Audi Q5 matches the Macan's base engine's power, but moving to higher engine options puts the Macan in the lead. With great power, comes great CO2 emissions. Although the Macan delivers more power than most competitors, this is not good news for Mother Nature. In a year, the Macan emits around 8 tons of CO2 at 15k miles/year.
The Macan has a different engine for each one of its trim levels, and each engine delivers acceleration and power that suits Porsche's persona.
All engines are mated to Porsche's 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission called Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) which delivers quick and smooth shifts.
Model |
Porsche Macan |
Jaguar F-Pace |
Audi Q5 |
Mercedes GLC 300 |
---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
6.3 sec |
6.4 sec |
5.9 sec |
6.3 sec |
Quarter mile |
13.4 sec @ 99.1 mph |
13.8 sec @ 99.6 mph |
13.5 sec @ 94.6 mph |
15.2 sec @ 89.6 mph |
Engine |
2.0 Liter Turbocharged Inline 4 |
2.0 Liter Turbocharged Inline 4 |
2.0 Liter TFSI Inline 4 |
2.0 Liter turbo Inline 4 |
No matter which engine you choose, the Macan would be a cut above the rest in terms of performance and agility. The base model goes from zero to sixty in 6.3 seconds, while the top engine crosses the 60 mph mark in just 4.4 seconds. The Audi Q5 is quicker than the base engine of Macan, but the higher engines blow away the competition with their immense power. This performance comes at a price, though. Along with being the most powerful and agile compact SUV, Macan is also the thirstiest, putting up some of the worst numbers when it comes to fuel economy.
The Macan may look like an SUV, but it moves like a sports car. The 2018 Porsche Macan’s drivability and handling are at par thanks to its quirkiness. The steering is sharp and handles well even at tight corners. The steering feedback is better than other SUVs, but still, a bit more driver feedback would enhance the driving experience a lot.
Each model offers a sports mode to further increase the driving experience. There is also an option of available air suspension to handle rough roads. Macan is no off-roader, but it can still handle small patches of rough terrains. In short, the Macan is as athletic as expected.
Although the Macan delivers impressive acceleration and picks up, it struggles to come back to a halt. The brake pedal feels light and soft for a vehicle this size. Even all-season tires didn't have enough traction to improve their panic brake abilities.
Model |
Porsche Macan |
Jaguar F-Pace |
Audi Q5 |
Mercedes GLC 300 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Brake pads front (in) |
13.6 |
12.8 |
13.3 |
13.5 |
Brake pads Rear (in) |
13.0 |
12.8 |
13.0 |
12.6 |
Curb weight (lbs) |
3902 |
3880 |
4045 |
3891 |
60-0 MPH |
120 ft |
121 ft |
112 ft |
112 ft |
Weighing at just over 3,900 pounds, the base Macan is also the lightest Macan ever. But even with a lighter weight and brake pads that are larger than the competitors', Macan takes 120 feet to go from 60 mph to standstill. Compared to the likes of Q5 and GLC 300, the Macan's braking abilities seem below average for its class.
Evidently, carrying heavy loads is not in Porsche’s DNA and the Macan follows the same principle. Despite all its aggression, all its vigor is put to the use of extracting impeccable performance on the roads. Besides, even we as buyers of this beasty SUV do not expect any explicit promise for towing heavy loads. Rather, just an exuberant display of straight-line performance.
Model |
Porsche Macan |
Jaguar F-Pace |
Audi Q5 |
Mercedes GLC 300 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Towing Capacity (lbs.) |
4,409 |
5,290 |
4,400 |
3,500 |
When the 2018 Porsche Macan is equipped with the optional towing package, it gets a trailer receiver without a tow ball that tops out at 4,409 pounds of braked trailer weight. Although these numbers aren't jaw-dropping, and rivals like the Jaguar F-Pace are much better at towing, a 4,409 pounds of towing capacity is exceptional when you compare it to other Porsches. The towing package adds a trailer receiver but does not add a trailer brake controller. If you want to add this much-needed feature to your Porsche, there are always aftermarket options.
The fuel economy is not one of Macan's strong suits. While it delivers great acceleration and luxury, it lags behind the competition in terms of mileage. The segment average seems to hover near the 24 miles per gallon figure, but the 2018 Porsche Macan settles for 22. Fuel economy may not be a deciding factor for someone who can actually afford a Porsche, but still, Macan is one thirsty beast!
Model |
Porsche Macan |
Jaguar F-Pace |
Audi Q5 |
Mercedes GLC 300 |
---|---|---|---|---|
mpg city |
20 |
22 |
23 |
22 |
mpg highway |
25 |
27 |
27 |
28 |
mpg combined |
22 |
24 |
25 |
24 |
Porsche did try to improve the fuel economy by equipping Macan's front grille with a shutter door. The door closes during low speeds when cooling requirements are low to improve Macan's aerodynamics. At higher speeds, the door opens to cool down the engine. This is done to improve the fuel economy, we can only imagine how disappointing the numbers would have been if Porsche has not added this advantage!
It comes with no surprise that the most expensive compact SUV in the market has the most comfortable and high-quality interior. The 2018 Porsche Macan may be the cheapest vehicle in the Porsche arsenal, but in no way did they compromise with quality. The aluminum borders and dynamic layout of controls give the interior a clean finish. Even the base trim is full of top-notch materials.
The seats are well-bolstered to stand Macan's high speeds. The instrumentation is clear and simple, but like Porsche's sports cars (that Macan essentially is) the rev counter is in the center. Another thing you would have to get used to is the Porsche's tradition of having the key to the left of the steering wheel.
Model |
Porsche Macan |
Jaguar F-Pace |
Audi Q5 |
Mercedes GLC 300 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Passenger capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Front - Head/Shoulder/Leg (in.) |
39.4/-/33.1 |
37.8/57.7/40.3 |
41.7/57.7/41.0 |
41.9/57.3/40.8 |
Second - Head/Shoulder/Leg (In.) |
36.3/-/32.3 |
37.5/55.8/37.2 |
39.3/56.5/37.8 |
38.5/56.5/37.3 |
The 2018 Porsche Macan can accommodate 5 people. Leather and Alcantara front seats are standard in all trims. The driving position is slightly elevated, which improves the visibility which is a bit diminished by the thick roof pillars. The front seats are 8-way power adjustable and include thick bolsters to offer excellent support. If you still want more, 14 and 18-way adjustable seats are available, too.
The second row feels a bit tight. It is perfect for two mid-size adults or three children. The headroom is no problem thanks to Porsche's coupe-like roof flow. The problem for the taller passengers in the backseat would be the legroom. Porsche reduced their wheelbase by 3.5 inches in 2015, and since then it seems like legroom in the backseat is what paid the price. The 2018 Porsche Macan Interior Features:
At first glance, the vast number of buttons surrounding the touchscreen appear confusing, but a few minutes with the system is all that it takes to become familiar with their operation. The 7-inch touch screen is responsive and receives a makeover for 2018 and now supports multi-touch.
Although the Macan offers Apple CarPlay for easy connectivity with iPhones, Android users would have to settle for classic connection options as Android Auto is not available. The standard system includes and for those who appreciate the quality of music a bit more than others have the option of upgrading to:
There was a lot of thought that went into redesigning the 2018 Porsche Macan inside and out. Sadly, cargo space was neglected. With the rear seats up, Macan only offers 17 cubic feet of storage, which is too low for its class. Folding the 40/20/40 split rear seats increases the space to 53 cubic feet. It's not less but other rivals do much better here.
Model |
Porsche Macan |
Jaguar F-Pace |
Audi Q5 |
Mercedes GLC 300 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Volume (ft.cube)(w/Rear seats fold) |
53.0 |
64.0 |
57.3 |
57.0 |
Loading Capacity (lbs.) |
14,88 |
900 |
13,44 |
16,00 |
Towing Capacity (lbs.) |
44,09 |
52,91 |
44,00 |
35,00 |
The split-folding rear seats allow you to fold down just a section for extra cargo room while still seating more than one passenger. The seats, however, don't lie completely flat. The cargo area has tie-down loops, which is a nice addition, and they easily lie flat when not in use.
The best way to describe how the 2018 Porsche Macan looks would be to imagine Porsche Cayenne and Panamera's teenage kid. The Macan's tapered nose, low roofline, and fast backlight are quite reminiscent of the bigger Cayenne and Panamera.
Model |
Porsche Macan |
Jaguar F-Pace |
Audi Q5 |
Mercedes GLC 300 |
---|---|---|---|---|
curb weight(lbs) |
3,902 |
3880 |
4,045 |
3891 |
Length(in) |
184.9 |
186.3 |
183.6 |
183.3 |
Width(in)(w/o mirror) |
75.7 |
81.5 |
74.5 |
74.4 |
Height(in) |
63.9 |
65.0 |
65.3 |
64.5 |
Ground clearance(in) |
7.8 |
8.4 |
8.2 |
8.3 |
Wheelbase(in) |
110.5 |
113.2 |
111.0 |
113.1 |
Track width(in) F/R |
65.2/65.0 |
64.6/65.1 |
63.6/63.3 |
63.9/63.7 |
The GTS and Turbo trims have a unique and aggressive front fascia. The matte-black finish on the side blades of GTS along with a more dynamic color scheme and a 10 mm lesser ground clearance add to its sportier look. A Front spoiler lip and squared-off quad exhaust outlets are the standout features of the Macan Turbo.
The standard headlights on all trims boast bi-xenon headlights and fog lights. Another great feature is the small liftgate-release button hidden on the rear windshield wiper. This obviates the need for a large handle in the rear door, which would be an eyesore in the 2018 Porsche Macan's great design. Some other standard features include:
The new Porsche Macan has not yet been tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Although it is a safe bet based on the previous Macans' crash tests and the added safety features this year that the 2018 Porsche Macan will do equally well, if not better. The total standard and available safety features are impressive, yet not as impressive as the features of rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC and the Volvo XC60, whose safety matches their luxury. The safety features available in the 2018 Porsche Macan include:
The Jaguar F-Pace is at par with the Macan when it comes to redefining an SUV's capabilities. Driving an F-Pace instills confidence in the driver thanks to its gripping drive. The F-Pace also has an array of powerful engine options, but the Macan's engines still outperform them. The F-Pace is good, but Macan is simply better.
But the F-Pace's Ace in the hole is its diesel engine. This is unique for a compact SUV. A diesel engine means a better fuel economy, which puts Macan's already bad economy to further shame. Even the interiors of the F-Pace are a bit more upscale and spacious than the Macan. Overall, the Macan might be a better performer, but the F-Pace is a better alternative once the cost is taken into consideration.
It's no surprise that the Porsche Macan and the Audi Q5 are the closest rivals, as both are the progenies of Volkswagen. While the Macan is more powerful and customizable, the Q5 has more cargo space and more tech features.
Although the Macan beats Q5 in terms of power and acceleration, Q5 doesn't lag as far behind as other competitors do. Another point that tips the scale in Q5's favor is its cost. The Q5 is almost $ 6,300 cheaper than the Macan. So as long as your priority is getting the most powerful and fun to drive SUV, go for the Macan. But if you are ready to compromise just the tiniest bit with power for an overall better car, then Audi Q5 is right for you.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC lacks Macan's agility but provides impressive comfort at a much lower price. The extruding look of the Macan proves to be deceiving as its interior is not so roomy, whereas the GLC 300 is quite roomier than the Macan though its exterior dimensions are lesser than the Macan.
Still, at the end of the day, power and performance are what matters for the price paid. So spending a few extra bucks for better performance and power makes the 2018 Porsche Macan, a better choice if one can compromise with its less roomy space and cargo.
The Macan is Porsche's least expensive car and could be a ticket into this posh brand for many. Don't let this fool you about its price, though. The 2018 Macan is the most expensive compact SUV on the market. Being almost $ 8,500 above the class average, a fully loaded Macan can reach up to $ 90,000! Fortunately, there are cheaper yet worthy alternatives in the market. Porsche's corporate cousin, the Audi Q5, is a great alternative if you can compromise with speed and power. Both provide exceptional interior quality, but the Q5 takes the lead in the cargo space and safety feature department.