THE NEW MACAN TURBO moves into the top spot in the Porsche compact SUV model range with its new 2.9-litre, six-cylinder biturbo engine. Extensively reworked, the new model offers 324kW (440hp), ten percent more than its already muscular predecessor, from 20 percent less displacement.
With the optional Sport Chrono Package, this car can get from a standing start to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds – three tenths faster than before with a top speed of 270 km/h (an increase of four km/h – something you’re sure to appreciate on the daily school run). Deceleration has also been improved: the new Macan Turbo comes with the powerful Porsche Surface Coated Brake (PSCB) fitted ex-factory, as part of the optimised chassis.
Externally, the Macan Turbo is characterised by the styling features of the revised model generation. The new top model also sets itself apart with unique accents such as the Turbo-specific front apron and the fixed roof spoiler with its double-wing design. Drivers and passengers alike benefit from the Macan’s enhanced interior, which includes adaptive 18-way sports seats and the BOSE Surround Sound system.
Powerful biturbo engine with central turbo layout
The new Macan Turbo’s 2.9-litre engine, already in use in Cayenne and Panamera models, is part of the latest-generation engine with a central turbo layout. Both exhaust turbochargers have been arranged inside the V of the cylinders. The cooled exhaust manifold has been integrated into the cylinder head for highly efficient combustion. The short exhaust paths between the combustion chambers and the turbochargers permit rapid build-up of power and a spectacularly spontaneous response. The engine delivers 30kW (40hp) more than the 3.6-litre, six-cylinder turbo in the predecessor model and a maximum torque of 550Nm between 1800 and 5600 rpm. Power transmission is provided by the seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox and Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive. Combined fuel consumption stands at 10.0L/100 km.
Optimised chassis with the Porsche Surface Coated Brake
The new Macan Turbo comes with the Porsche Surface Coated Brake (PSCB) as standard. These high-performance brakes are exclusive to Porsche and, with a tungsten carbide coating on the discs, offer a faster response, less wear and up to 90 percent less brake dust (something that seems to be a particular affliction with European cars) compared with conventional cast iron brakes. The high-gloss brake discs and white painted brake calipers are characteristic for PSCB and are now available as an optional extra for all other Macan models as well.
The height-adjustable air suspension with optimised rolling pistons and new shock absorber hydraulics are standard on the new Macan Turbo in Australia, while Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) and the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) are available as an option for a further increase in dynamics. The 21-inch 911 Turbo Design wheels come as standard.
Unique design with turbo front apron and double wing at the rear
The new Macan Turbo gets an exclusive front apron, with three large air intakes and high-level front lights, as well as the standard LED headlights including the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS).
From the side, this top model sets itself apart with 21-inch 911 Turbo Design wheels, Sport Design side skirts and Sport Design exterior mirrors in body colour. The specially developed fixed roof spoiler with its double-wing design is typical for the Turbo model. The sports exhaust system, fitted as standard, identifies itself with unique, silver twin tailpipes.
18-way sports seats and surround sound system as standard
Befitting its lofty price, the Macan Turbo offers high levels of equipment. Adaptive sports seats with smooth leather upholstery, electric 18-way adjustment and a comfort memory package are standard features. The high-quality ambience is rounded off by the Alcantara roof lining and the brushed aluminium interior package. The heated GT sports steering wheel, which is familiar from the 911, is available as an option for sporty drivers.
Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with a 10.9-inch full HD touchscreen is fully networked as standard and connected to a BOSE Surround Sound system with 14 loudspeakers and a total output of 665 watts. It includes online navigation with real-time traffic information and voice control as part of the Navigation and Infotainment Package. Other standard features include Porsche Connect Plus, which comes with an LTE telephone module, a SIM card reader, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot and numerous Porsche Connect services.
The options list now includes a heated windscreen and an ioniser to improve the interior’s air quality. Adaptive cruise control is also available.
The new Macan Turbo standard equipment list specific for Australia includes Porsche Entry & Drive, front seat heating, comfort lighting package, 21-inch 911 Turbo Design wheels, Surround View, privacy glass, air suspension including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), automatically dimming mirrors, side airbags in the rear compartment, digital radio and wireless Apple CarPlay with Siri voice recognition.
The new Macan Turbo is available to order now. It is priced from $142,000 (plus on road costs) and will arrive in Australia in October 2019.
Once we have tested and assessed the new Porsche Macan Turbo, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.