Porsche has released its new Macan range – with a R500,000 price difference between the standard Macan and the top-end GTS version.
This new generation of Macan offers more features, better performance, and an updated design, with the GTS getting exclusive abilities and the most powerful engine.
Below, we find out what the extra R500,000 gets you in the top-end Macan.
Design
The Macan has received a new look, with the redesigned front being the most noticeable change.
Porsche also redesigned the rear diffuser and added the Dynamic Light System and Sport Design mirrors as standard.
Being the most performance-orientated version of the Macan, however, the GTS receives an even more aggressive look.
This was achieved through blacking out the front bumper, side window trim, Porsche logo, exhaust tips, and lights.
Furthering this daunting design are 21-inch rims – compared to 19-inch alloys on the base Macan.
Features
According to Porsche, the new Macan has a “substantially enhanced interior with a modern and elegantly designed centre console”.
Running along this centre console are touch-sensitive surfaces that have replaced the tactile buttons of the previous generation.
Features controlled by these new touch buttons are the three-zone climate control and traction control. They also manage the sports exhaust and heated seats on the GTS.
Lying between these touch-sensitive surfaces in the centre of the redesigned transmission tunnel is a shorter gear shifter, while the now-standard analogue clock sits above the 10.9-inch infotainment system on the dash.
This infotainment system features a navigation system and over-the-air updates, along with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and voice control functionality.
Alternatively, it can be controlled via the new multifunctional GT Sport steering wheel that is also found on the Porsche 911 Carrera.
This steering wheel can control the partially-digital instrument cluster, too.
The interior of the GTS then stands out above the base Macan with a carbon fibre interior package, 18-way electrically-adjustable Sports seats, Race-Tex fabric upholstery, and contrast stitching with GTS lettering.
Additional features found on the Macan range are automatic wipers and LED headlights, which have speed-sensitive range control, dynamic cornering, an adverse weather function, and “welcome home” lighting.
Safety
The thorough implementation of driver assistance features and safety systems ensures excellent passenger protection in the updated Macan.
These features include lane departure warning, cruise control, park assist with a visual aid, vehicle stability management, and trailer stability assist.
As a result, the Macan receives a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.
Performance
Power and performance is where the Macan GTS really outshines its entry-level sibling.
The standard Macan comes with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, twin-turbocharged engine that produces 195kW and 400Nm.
This engine is connected to a seven-speed automatic transmission, allowing acceleration from 0-100km/h in 6.2 seconds – and for the Macan to reach a top speed of 232km/h.
A higher top speed of 272km/h and a faster 0-100km/h sprint of 4.3 seconds is achieved by the GTS.
It is the engine that differs between the two, as the GTS has a 2.9-litre, V6, biturbo motor that pushes out 324kW and 520Nm.
This extra power is matched by the stopping force of six-piston brake callipers on the GTS – while four-piston callipers are present on the base Macan.
The higher performance and better braking of the GTS is complemented by improved handling through Porsche’s Active Suspension Management, which continuously regulates the dampening of each wheel.
Sports air suspension further improves this handling through lowering the ride height by 10mm.
However, the base Macan does have better fuel efficiency – as it achieves an 8.7l/100km combined fuel consumption compared to 9.6l/100km for the GTS.
Price
The Porsche Macan has a South African price of R1,050,000.
The Porsche Macan GTS costs R1,551,000 in South Africa.
Both come with a 3-year/100,000km Driveplan maintenance agreement, and will be arriving in South Africa in January 2022.
Porsche Macan GTS
Porsche Macan
Keyword: New Porsche Macan – Cheapest vs Most Expensive