Porsche is keeping up with the growing competition in the high performance sport-utility segment with the latest iteration its Macan.
The recently introduced Macan is making its U.S. debut at the New York International Auto Show along with the new 718 and the retro racer, the 911R.
The Macan is the fourth in the line of the German sportscar maker’s Macan series after the Macan S and Macan Turbo and Macan GTS. The Macan is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder that is tailored for the small SUV.
The new 2.0-liter inline-four engine is designed to be sporty and efficient. It operates with up to 14 PSI of boost pressure, charge-air cooling, direct injection, and variable valve timing. VarioCam Plus adapts the intake and exhaust camshaft continually and also controls the lift of the exhaust valves.
(Porsche looks to the past with 911R and 718 Boxster. For more, Click Here.)
Thanks to 252 horsepower from 5,000 to 6,800 rpm and 273 pound-feet of torque available between 1,600 rpm and 4,500 rpm, overtaking maneuvers are completed confidently. The inline four is mated to a standard seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission featuring Auto Start Stop technology.
The partnership runs from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package featuring Launch Control. Top track speed is 142 mph. The new Macan GTS’ fuel efficiency rating improved 18% compared to the Macan S, getting an EPA-certified 25 miles per gallon on the highway, 20 mpg in the city and 22 mpg combined.
While it’s fast, the new Macan also handles well with standard active all-wheel drive and the Porsche Traction Management, as well as the agile suspension and precise steering. Air suspension with load-leveling control and the PASM system with adaptive dampers are optionally available only improving ride and handling characteristics.
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The maker notes that the new Macan weighs in at just 3,902 pounds, which makes it the lightest SUV made by Porsche, and that translates into particularly agile handling.
The 2017 Macan is available to order now with deliveries expected in July 2016. The Macan starts at $47,500, excluding delivery, processing, and handling fee of $1,050.
The 911 R and the 718 Boxster both represent the latest interpretation of driving pleasure and dynamics in their respective segments. The 911 R is the modern take on the original track-ready racer introduced and the new 718 Boxster reaches even further back to pay homage of the 718 Spyder produced in the 1950s and early ‘60s.
(To see more about the 911 R paying homage to its racing heritage, Click Here.)
The 911 R is a pure, uncompromised driving machine with a naturally-aspirated, 500 horsepower engine mounted in the rear. The 718 Boxster features extensive chassis enhancements and an all-new turbocharged, mid-mounted flat-four cylinder engine. The 718 Boxster is powered by a 2.0-liter engine developing 300 hp, while the 718 Boxster S utilizes a 2.5-liter powerplant making 350 hp.
