VM Road Test Porsche Macan: This Electric SUV Must Deliver

The Macan is already leading the way into the new era, hopefully with customers on board: The new generation of the mid-size SUV is available only in electric form, but in the usual Zuffenhausen variations, graded according to performance. Visually, the 4.78-meter-long base model is indistinguishable from the more powerful versions Macan 4, 4S, or Turbo, and even a power output of 250 kW / 340 hp seems quite impressive for a base variant. Compared to its more powerful siblings, up to the declared Turbo without corresponding charging as an electric version, the Macan is driven exclusively via the rear axle. It's a lot of power for a mono-axle drive, and anyone who is once quickly driving on winding country roads or on slippery surfaces will quickly feel that not only the 250 kilowatts but especially the substantial 563 Nm of maximum torque struggle to be converted into appropriate propulsion.

Admittedly, on a dry track and with normal everyday driving without heavy accelerator inputs, it looks different, as the over 2.2-ton electric crossover brings its engine power very cautiously to the road and shows that the power is more than sufficient to be fast or even speedy. In this, the steering presents itself as precise across different speed ranges, while the tuning of the chassis and dampers is notably firm for what is inherently a less sporty base version. The substantial battery pack with a capacity of 100 kWh in the underbody not only plays a significant role in the tuning alongside a favorable weight distribution but also ensures, with a standard consumption of 17 to 20 kWh/100 kilometers, a maximum range of up to 640 kilometers.

High Curb Weight Dampens the Sporting Spirit

Is the Macan, despite its basic setup, a true Porsche or somewhat lacking in sporting prowess? Truly dynamic feelings don't emerge at 250 kW / 340 hp, partly due to the imposing curb weight. Even though the steering allows for precise navigation and the driving performance is adequate, the right thrust in all conditions needed to be impressed is missing. For that, it hardly needs to be the slightly more powerful Porsche Macan 4 with its 408 hp distributed over two axles, but rather the 330 kW / 448 hp of the Macan 4S, which in boost mode briefly surges to 516 hp. The additional torque is also significantly noticeable, as the 820 Nm leaves you breathless despite the 120 kilograms of extra weight.

The entry-level model is not the best choice, but probably one that for many potential customers, especially in regions without significant all-wheel drive penetration, will be just the right one – corresponding Porsche image included. However, to ensure these customers are securely captured, the overall package should be a bit more relaxed and comfortable. Electronic dampers can hardly compensate for this, because the 235 tires at the front and 285 tires at the rear with impressive 20-inch rims not only look good but also contribute to a certain overall hardness of the system. With even larger wheels, this is more noticeable in the stylishly finished interior, where at least four adults will find good space conditions and can expand the cargo area from 540 to 1,384 liters by folding down the rear seat. Under the front hood, there is also more space with a volume of an impressive 84 liters, more than just for the usual charging equipment.