2015 Porsche Macan Designed for Performance On and Off the Road

Macan is a name derived from the Indonesian word for tiger, and is not to be confused with the word "macaw," which describes a type of parrot. Indeed, the new 2015 Porsche Macan is a performance-oriented SUV that the automaker claims "will set new standards in terms of dynamic performance, on pavement and on trails."

When the new 2015 Macan goes on sale next year it will initially be offered in S and Turbo trim, each equipped with a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, 7-speed automated manual transmission with paddle shifters, Porsche Traction Management (PTM) active all-wheel drive with an Off-Road driving mode, and automatic start/stop engine technology with a coasting mode to help improve fuel economy. The Macan S model's 3.0-liter V-6 engine generates 340 horsepower, producing acceleration to 60 mph in as few as 5 seconds and delivering a top speed of 156 mph, according to Porsche. The Macan Turbo has a new 3.6-liter V-6 engine rated to produce 400 horsepower, reaching 60 mph in as few as 4.4 seconds and having a 164-mph top speed.

The standard PTM system drives the Macan's rear wheels, automatically transferring up to 100% of engine output to the front wheels as is necessary. The Off-Road driving mode works at speeds below 50 mph, raising the Macan's ride height and adjusting the powertrain for optimum performance off the pavement. Porsche also equips the Macan with Porsche Hill Control, which allows the driver to set a specific hill ascent or descent speed between 2 mph and 18 mph, and the vehicle will automatically maintain that velocity. An optional Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus system varies the torque split at the rear wheels, improving cornering and handling capabilities regardless of the road surface, Porsche claims.

Standard equipment for the new Macan includes a 7-inch color touch-screen audio system with an Aha application that supplies access to Internet radio, social media platforms, and other online content when the driver's smartphone is paired to the system. Additional standard features include a reversing camera, 8-way power-adjustable front comfort seats, a multi-function sports steering wheel, and a power liftgate. The Macan also includes bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, and LED taillights.