What’s hot?
- Yes, the Macan looks like a scaled-down Cayenne, but the low, wide, coupe-like shape with its aggressive nose seems to work better with the Q5-platform’s shorter dimensions.
- Design cues such as the slim, 3D rear lights mean you’ll not confuse this Porsche SUV with its big brother.
- With its mixture of leather and metal trim, the Macan’s attractive, high quality interior is more than a match for the £43k list price. The 918 Spyder steering wheel is particularly nice to hold.
- It might be powered by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, but with 258bhp, the performance is more than a match for the sporting brand.
- If the refined, revvy nature of this engine doesn’t impress, the huge torque right from low down the rev-range will. The seven-speed PDK transmission is slick and smooth too.
- With its rear wheel drive bias and on optional air suspension, the Macan handles more like a sports car than a compact SUV. The electromechanical steering is well-weighted, with this Porsche demonstrating impressive grip, poise and virtually no body roll in corners.
- Although we didn’t get to try the Macan in the rough, we’re assured that it is as capable off-road as it is on it.
- This Porsche is a tall compact SUV, but even on our review car’s optional 20-inch wheels and air suspension, the ride was impressively refined and comfortable.
- The Macan Diesel S falls into the 27% company car tax band for 2014/15.
- The Macan Diesel is an agile performer, but despite all that power, it is still capable of 46.3mpg on the Combined cycle.
What’s not?
- It may be the sportiest diesel Compact SUV, but rivals have more rear legroom than the Macan.
- If headroom is a priority, then avoid the panoramic sunroof option.
- The boot is practically shaped, but with 500 litres, the Porsche isn’t the class-leader. However, it does have a standard split/fold rear seat, which when down increases this to 1500 litres of space.
- Standard equipment includes a DAB radio, climate control and leather trim. However, it’s disappointing that you have to pay extra for equipment such as Bluetooth and cruise control, which are standard on cheaper rivals.
- The diesel Macan is capable of over 40mpg, but the Porsche is expensive to buy and the 159g/km emissions means it is not going to be the most efficient company car to run.