Porsche Macan S In Electrifying Form

THE ANNOUNCEMENT that future models of the Porsche Macan will be all electric should spark the local Porsche community into action.

Many Macan owners in Singapore would be living in landed property, so charging will not likely be an issue. For those in condominiums, it’s probably time to charge into the management committee and get some charging points organised.

But, more importantly, how will an electric Macan perform? We will not have to wait long to find out, since Porsche has announced the next generation Macan should roll out by the start of the next decade.

The all-electric Porsche Taycan, due in 2020, may provide some hints about the direction Porsche’s electric vehicles will be taking.

Meanwhile, to celebrate the progress Porsche has made with the internal combustion engine,  the Macan S is in place to reinforce this compact SUV’s presence as a rising star with a wider reach.

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Porsche Macan

The relative newcomer to the Porsche fold has fitted nicely into that entry-level space where a smallish SUV wearing the Porsche badge would be welcomed.

The SUVs have certainly helped Porsche charge forward, with the Cayenne hitting the road first.

The Macan has grown in popularity since it allows the Porsche branding greater versatility at a friendlier cost entry point. While the Macan makes for a good set of wheels for a general run around, Porsche’s steroidal model, the Macan S delivers a performance  that is vastly more engaging than the price differential.


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Porsche Macan

Design Upgrade

With its compact dimensions, the Macan S also delivers the latest technology and the Porsche family look. Its light clusters use LED technology smartly, and the rear bank incorporates the brand logo for a contemporary look.

The Macan’s size allows it to get away with more unusual colours without looking like it’s trying too hard.

That sense of fun carries through to the interior where the alcantara steering wheel and shifter take away from an otherwise serious leather and industrial carbon fibre and black glass look. However, that said, the alcantara steering doesn’t really work if you have sweaty palms or just don’t like the feel of it. Since it’s an option, you can choose regular leather.

While there’s a big 10.9″ screen to provide all the details about setting up the car, the three circular dials on the dashboard in the driver’s line of sight provide more than enough information for anyone behind the wheel. From the music selection to navigation, and the state of the engine and the speed you’re travelling at, you get what’s needed.

The new Porsche Communication Management system allows for greater connectivity with your smart devices. Some steps require a few pokes at the screen, but once you’ve got to where you need to be, the sound and performance are good for your journey.

Two USB charge ports and connectivity ports in the front centre console work for now, though if USB Type-C becomes de rigueur, things may have to change. Going wireless  — Bluetooth and Qi — is still the best bet.


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Porsche Macan

Good To Go

The moment you turn the ignition key, the Macan S becomes pleasing to the eye and ear.

The purr of the 3-litre V6 ready to whisk you away is a promise it keeps quite well. The engine, first introduced in the Panamera, has also benefitted from time with the Cayenne before being placed in the Macan. The mono twin-scroll turbocharger located in the inner V ensures snappy response times, with high torque at low engine speeds.

For those not satisfied with the acceleration as such, hit the boost button on the steering wheel and feel the surge of power. No neck-jolting moves, just smooth, sustained power that lets you keep upping the pace.

Porsche Macan

While many luxury vehicles try to isolate its occupants by providing a magic carpet ride, the Macan S lets you feel the power through the seat of your pants. It’s quite enjoyable getting that kind of feedback and it certainly enhances the experience for those who like to drive. I mean, if you don’t, then why are you in a Porsche?

To cater to an audience with a wide range of driving skills, Porsche has replaced some steel components with aluminium, bringing down the weight and helping to deliver improved steering and a more comfortable ride. Even the brake pedal has had its weight shaved by 300g, and via a shortened lever arm, results in more immediate braking, which is ideal for those who fancy pushing the Macan S a bit more. The PCCB ceramic brake system is also an option.

Let’s hope the enjoyment of driving the Macan S is replicated, or enhanced, in its electric form.


Porsche MacanPORSCHE MACAN S RATING:

Styling: 7.5/10

Interior: 8/10

Connectivity: 8/10

Ride: 9/10

Handling: 9/10

Power: 9/10

Overall: 9/10


TECH SPECS

Engine: Turbocharged V6

Capacity: 2,995cc

Max Power: 260kW

Max Torque: 480Nm

Transmission: 7-speed PDK

Efficiency: 9.6L/100km

VES Band: C2

CO2: 219g/km

0-100kmh: 5.3 seconds

Top Speed: 254kmh

Retail price: *$288,788

www.porsche.com.sg

Please reconfirm price with dealer.

Read more STORM car reviews HERE.

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