An entirely new model line is big news for Porsche, and while the Macan SUV isn't another sports car the German firm promises it'll be the most dynamic model in its class. Not only that, but it's even relatively affordable in Ireland. Certainly it sounds promising, the initial engine line-up consisting of a 3.0-litre V6 bi-turbo petrol engine with 340hp in the Macan S, a 400hp 3.6-litre V6 bi-turbo unit in the Macan Turbo and a Macan S Diesel with a 258hp 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel. All are allied to a seven-speed PDK automatic transmission, driving all four wheels via Porsche Traction Management (PTM).
Exterior
Porsche doesn't really do radical with design so the Macan is the usual mix of 911 signatures and compact SUV proportions. Unsurprisingly perhaps, it shares its look with its bigger Cayenne relation, though more sculptural flanks - which Porsche says ape those of the 918 hypercar - do lower and broaden its stance. Customisation of the sides is possible via lower sideblades, Porsche describing them as 'dynamically formed inserts that are available in different materials as an option'. The Turbo gets a more distinctive, aggressive look, with what Porsche calls 'C-Blade' air intakes on either side.
Interior
The cabin, like many of the exterior elements, takes its influence from the 918 Spyder, the multi-function steering wheel being derived from Porsche's flagship model. Otherwise it's all familiar Porsche, with a simple, uncluttered layout. In front of the driver there are the usual three circular instruments dominated by the central rev counter, while the right-hand tube contains a 4.8-inch high resolution colour display for the various drive and infotainment functions. A sloping centre console like that on the 911, Cayenne and Panamera contains the traditional PDK shifter and numerous controls for entertainment, comfort and driving options - all coming with a Sport button.
Mechanicals
All of the launch engines are turbocharged, though only the flagship 400hp model wears the haloed Turbo badge. Three suspension systems are offered: conventional steel springs and normal dampers, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with steel springs and a full air suspension system.
For all the performance on offer the Macan's drivetrain is designed to eke every possible mile out of the fuel tank, coming with stop-start as standard, while there's a coasting function, electrically powered steering, active cooling shutters and regenerative braking and overrun power used to charge the battery rather than causing parasitic drain from the engine itself. Porsche Traction Management comes as standard, but there's also the option of Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, Sport Chrono (dropping the 0-100km/h time by 0.2 seconds on all) incorporating launch control.
Anything else?
It would be remiss to discuss a new Porsche and not mention the numbers. The Macan S is able to reach 100km/h in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 254km/h, the Macan Turbo 4.8 seconds and 265km/h and the Macan S Diesel 6.3 seconds and 230km/h. Fuel economy for the diesel is 46.3mpg with CO2 of 159g/km, the Macan S managing 32.5mpg and 204g/km and the Turbo 31.7mpg and 208g/km - those figures changing slightly depending on wheel specification. And prices? The S starts at €76,864 in Ireland, the S Diesel is €69,741 and the Turbo €105,266. Sales start in April, and Porsche has capacity to build around 50,000 a year in its German plant.