Porsche Macan review

All Macan models are fairly expensive to buy next to key rivals, and Porsche doesn’t offer discounts. However, resale values are among the best in class, helping to keep PCP finance deals very competitive as a result.

Servicing and insurance costs are slightly higher than those of other posh SUVs and, with no diesel engine in the range, don't expect particularly great fuel economy from any of the engines; the 2.0-litre unit officially manages almost 40mpg, but the best we saw was low to mid-30s. At least in our experience the V6 powered S isn't much thirstier on a motorway run, but expect nearer 25mpg with a bit of town driving thrown in. You'll get better economy from an Audi SQ5 diesel. 

The Macan’s CO2 emissions, while competitive given its performance, are high and, combined with costly list prices, bump up benefit-in-kind (BiK) tax payments for company car users.

You get a fair bit for your money with even the entry-level Macan, such as 18in alloy wheels, a powered tailgate, cruise control, part-Alcantara seats, three-zone climate control, power-folding door mirrors and automatic lights and wipers.

Pricier models do add some extra kit, but focus mostly on sportier styling, different wheels and suspension, and more power under the bonnet.

Porsche didn’t perform particularly well in the 2020 What Car? Reliability Survey, finishing joint 22nd out of 31 brands. However, individually, the Macan performed well; it was the second most reliable luxury SUV.

While Porsche’s three-year warranty looks merely average, it is at least an unlimited-mileage policy.

The Macan received a five-star safety rating when it was tested by EuroNCAP, but it’s worth noting that it was tested under the 2014 regime, which was much less strict than today’s. 

Every Macan comes with six airbags, including head and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, and curtain airbags that offer head protection to both front and rear occupants. There’s also hill hold assist (so you don’t roll backwards during a hill start) and the usual range of electronic traction and stability aids. Porsche also fits a system that senses if you’ve just had a collision but are still moving; it automatically activates the brakes to try to reduce the likelihood of rolling into another vehicle. Lane departure warning is standard, while lane-keeping assistance and blind spot monitors are on the options list.

Automatic emergency braking (AEB) isn’t included. Considering that some value-priced city cars have this important feature, which can help prevent a front end collision with pedestrians, other vehicles and even large animals, it being merely optional on a car of this price is a big disappointment. An alarm and immobiliser are standard, and Thatcham Research awarded the Macan a high rating for prevention of theft and protection from break-ins.