- Doors and Seats
5 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
3.0TT, 6 cyl.
- Engine Power
265kW, 500Nm
- Fuel
Petrol (98) 9.2L/100KM
- Manufacturer
4WD
- Transmission
Auto (DCT)
- Warranty
3 Yr, Unltd KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
Porsche Macan GTS Quick Spin review
What is it?
The middle child in Porsche's compact SUV range. Nestled between the standard Macan S and more powerful Macan Turbo, the GTS brings a sporting edge to the centre of the Macan lineup.
What isn't it?
A genuine sports car. While Porsche insists every model in its range is a sports car, that's a load of marketing tripe. While this is an impressively fast, dynamically polished family crossover, it lacks the purity of a dedicated sports car.
What does it say about me?
That you had to have that badge. The Macan is the most accessible way - both financially and practically - into new Porsche ownership, the GTS' extra power and sharper reactions add street cred to the newest member of the Macan family.
Who else is buying it?
More people than you might think. The Macan has been a significant sales hit for Porsche, bringing many new customers to the brand.
What colours does it come in?
Porsche's palette is as deep as your wallet, and the Macan will come in just about any colour you want it to. The Macan GTS treatment includes black wheels, window tinting, lights, badges, exhaust tips and stickers. I reckon it looks spot on teamed with black paint here - what the tuner kids call a "murdered out" look.
If it were a celebrity, who would it be?
Gold-medal winning Olympic gymnast Simone Biles.
It's a new, compact and trendy member of a sporting generation that offers far more performance than you might expect. Just the right amount of sass, too.
Why would I buy it?
Because you want to buy Porsche's baby SUV, but you're worried the regular model isn't butch enough. Judging by the number of fashionable women spotted at the wheel of the regular Macan in capital cities, you might just be right.
Will it let me down?
Nah.
Does it cost too much?
While $109,200 is a fair chunk of cash, the desirable nature of Porsche's GTS pack - usually the sweet spot in its respective model line - makes it seem like relatively good value. Be prepared for the options sheet, though. Our test example has $16,000 in extras fitted, including coloured instrument dials and seat belts that help make the model feel special.
Will I get a deal?
It's a new machine, so you'll probably be better off bargaining on other members of the Macan family.
Will it get me noticed?
Yep, you'll be the friend with a new Porsche. But people might miss you if you order it in stealth-bomber spec.
Any gadgets I can brag about?
We like the powerful V6 engine with switchable sports exhaust, multi-mode suspension and clever power steering plus systems.
How's the cabin ambience?
Commanding. There are enough switches and buttons to make you feel as though you're in control of a high-tech military prototype. The fit and finish is exceptional, the grained, cool-touch black-anodised aluminium is worlds better than woodgrain and the instrument cluster could only be from a Porsche.
What's the stereo like?
Our example was fitted with $2650 worth of optional Bose surround sound system, a fine addition to a comprehensive motorcar.
Does it go?
Affirmative. The GTS scoots to 100km/h in five seconds flat when fitted with the $2690 sport chrono pack, which makes it 0.2s quicker than the Macan S, and 0.4s slower than the more powerful Macan Turbo. All three cars feature what is fundamentally the same engine, a turbocharged 3.0-litre engine that makes 265kW and 500Nm in GTS trim.
Does it like corners?
Yep. This machine has a surplus of grip thanks to its clever all-wheel-drive system, expertly honed suspension and fat Michelin tyres. While its sheer cornering speed is impressive, It doesn't feel alive in the same way that a two-door Porsche might.
What about bumps?
Pop the suspension in comfort mode. You're golden.
What about service stations?
The Macan's official 9.2L/100km economy isn't great. It gets worse if you drive it hard, too.
Would you buy one?
Tough call. The Macan is an impressive performer that brings much-needed spunk to the compact SUV segment, but there's a strong part of me that requires Porsches to have two doors and a six-cylinder engine. For almost the same money you can have a brand-new 718 Cayman.
What else should I consider?
Audi's ageing SQ5 is a key rival, as is the new Jaguar F-Pace. Thinking outside the box, Audi's upcoming S4 wagon matches it for space and pace, as does the homegrown HSV Clubsport LSA Tourer.
The Spin
Life, intensified.
The Translation
See, we told you a little Porsche SUV could be cool.
2016 Porsche Macan GTS pricing and specifications
Price: From $109,200 plus on-road costs
Engine: 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol
Power: 265kW at 6000rpm
Torque: 500Nm at 1650-4000rpm
Transmission: Seven-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive
Fuel use: 9.2L/100km