The Macan's next-gen replacement won't be forgoing fun exhaust noises.Some news is brewing around the next-gen Porsche Macan's internal combustion successor. Recent developments include some supposed new details and spy photos of a test mule unearthed by AutoBlog and autoevolution.Apparently, the Macan's next-gen gas-powered successor is starting to come to light as engineers continue testing. The latest find adds to the anticipation for Porsche's next entry-level crossover as many are still wondering when its gas-powered replacement is going to arrive.An Porsche dressed as an Audi, for nowZuffenhausen's best-seller recently came under scrutiny after Porsche attempted to convert the Macan into an EV. They successfully did so, with the latest Macan Electric.AdvertisementAdvertisementBut of course, as pure as Porsche purists come, many expressed their disinterest in the electrified SUV. The effects of the backlash were so profound, Zuffenhausen reversed course and revived the prospect of a next-gen gas-powered Macan replacement.However, that still couldn't defeat the inevitable end of the previous Macan. Thus, leaving fans even more eager for the next phase.The test mule looks awfully a lot like an SQ5, but that's not as obscure as you think. - Credit: AudiNow, spy photographers apparently caught its test mule running about in Europe. The pictures show what appear to be an almost Audi Q5-like SUV.But according to the supplied materials, it's actually the gas-powered Macan's successor, wrapped up in Audi sheetmetal. Which, really isn't all that surprising, considering Porsche and SUVs share a lot in common.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe outgoing Macan used the same platform as the fifth-generation Audi Q5. Or VW/Audi Group's MLB global modular platform.Don't expect it to be called the MacanThe Macan name is apparently being reserved strictly for the Electric model. - Credit: PorschePorsche's marketing team is also looking to further differentiate the Macan Electric from it's gas-powered sibling. So, they're apparently giving it a new name.Rumor says it'll be called the "Octan." It'll use VW/Audi Group's latest Premium Platform Combustion architecture. Which, in essence, is an evolution of the same, original MLB platform underpinning the old Macan.The last chance to order an outgoing Macan from the factory is quickly approaching. - Credit: PorscheMechanical details are sparse. But we wouldn't expect much of a deviation from the old gas-powered Macan's formula.AdvertisementAdvertisementWe anticipate further use of VW's EA 888 turbo-four, along with some possible high-performance six-cylinder variants. Additionally, Porsche's electrification efforts aren't on a complete stop. So, it also wouldn't be too far-fetched to expect more gas-electric hybrization as well.About the Author: Chris Chin is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, trucks and anything else with four wheels. He has over a decade of experience writing news and reviews but considers himself an enthusiast first, with a passion for classics and European cars. His daily driver is a 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL with nearly 250,000 miles (87,000 are his).Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.