Porsche has revealed a new version of its recently-updated Macan SUV, aimed at keen drivers. The Macan T carries on the 'Touring' concept originally introduced by Porsche in the 1960s, and more recently applied to the 718 and 911. It sits between the current Macan and the Macan S in the line-up.
Turbo power, with Sport Chrono
Under the bonnet of the Macan T is the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine as in the entry-level Macan, a turbocharged unit putting out a not inconsiderable 265hp and 400Nm of torque. Interestingly, Porsche makes a point of saying that it helps give the Macan T a more agile feeling than the Macan S as the engine is nearly 60kg lighter than that model's V6 engine.
The keen of eye will notice that the Macan T's 0-100km/h time of 6.2 seconds is 0.2 seconds faster than that of the Macan. That's thanks to the standard Sport Chrono package on the new variant. As in all Macans, there's a seven-speed PDK automatic gearbox and 'Porsche Traction Management' all-wheel drive, though the latter has been tweaked for a more rear-biased split of the engine's output.
Bespoke chassis setup
The Macan T uses conventional steel springs in conjunction with the Porsche Active Suspension Management adjustable damping system, sitting 15mm lower than the regular model. The front anti-roll bar is stiffer, too.
Options to enhance the chassis further are adaptive air suspension (which can lower the ride height a further 10mm) and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus.
Macan T look inside and out
Externally, the Macan T can be identified by its Agate Grey Metallic accent colour, which is applied to the front, the door mirrors, the 'side blades' at the bottom of the doors (which also feature the Macan T script) and the roof spoiler, while high-gloss black is used for the quad exhaust outlets and window surrounds. The 20-inch alloys from the Macan S are drafted in, but painted in dark titanium to differentiate the T.
Inside, the Macan T features eight-way electrically adjustable heated sports seats upholstered in a mix of black leather and a Sport-Tex Stripe pattern, with an embossed Porsche crest found in the headrests of the front seats. Additionally, there's decorative silver stitching on the seats, headrests and steering wheel. The latter is the multi-function GT heated sports item with the driving mode switch and Sport Response button.
Available to order now, the Macan T is expected to retail in Ireland for approximately €100,000.