Porsche Macan Turbo 2019 Review

The upgraded Porsche Macan Turbo has arrived in Australia, packing 30kW more wallop from its new 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6.

Already doing duty in the Cayenne and Panamera, the new V6 replaces a 3.6-litre unit that formerly powered the Macan flagship.

Driving through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to all four wheels, the 2.9-litre engine is docile and subdued until you wake it up with an almighty prod of the accelerator. Then the raspy, sawtooth-edged engine note reaches a shrill but muscular crescendo all the way up to redline. The muscular sound is enhanced by opening the bi-modal exhaust valve with the press of a button in the centre console.

And it's not all about the engine's aural delights; for a shove in the back somewhat like being fired out of a cannon, just dial up launch control (selecting Sport+ mode) for some added fun. With the left foot holding the brakes locked on and the right foot pressing the accelerator all the way to the floor, the V6 will spin up to 5000rpm for a neck-snapping ride from standing start.

But even with all that storm and fury the V6 remains refined. There's very little vibration present, whether it's working hard or not. Driven more sedately the engine is thoroughly composed, ticking over at 1800rpm, for instance, at the open-road limit (100km/h). At that speed there's barely a murmur to be registered from the engine.

It's also relatively economical, consuming fuel at the rate of 12.1L/100km on a test loop, which dovetails with figures ranging between 11 and 13L/100km in urban commuting. The new engine is not as economical on paper as the larger 3.6-litre V6 it replaces, but the fuel consumption figure for the 2.9-litre engine is extrapolated from WLTP testing, and is close to real-world consumption.

Coupled to the engine, the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is slightly clunky at times, but provides very direct, aggressive shifts when used manually. Porsche chooses to have the transmission change up at the red line, (6400rpm), even when the box is being used manually.

The Macan continues to be based on the previous generation of Audi Q5 platform, which might explain in part why the Macan Turbo's roadholding is not quite at the same level as, another Euro performance SUV in the same ballpark for price, but developing more power and torque – the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio.

That said though, the Porsche's handling and roadholding remain highly commendable. In fact, the Macan Turbo's dynamic ability is a credible benchmark, even if it's not class-leading. Cornering, there are no signs of weight transfer, and the steering is direct, providing precise placement on the road. Brakes are strong too, with firm pedal pressure underfoot.

Although the Macan Turbo is fitted with adaptable air suspension, the ride comfort is jiggly over secondary level bumps – in comfort mode also – but body control is very good, even in sport mode on lumpy bitumen. And the ride is never punishing, whatever the setting or the road surface.

It's very quiet in the cabin and touring speeds, with just some wind and tyre noise in evidence at freeway speeds. At night, the headlights are exemplary, and feature auto high-beam assist.

Behind the wheel, the Porsche's ergonomic science is plain for all to see – and feel. Thumb holds for the steering wheel are one example – designed to keep your thumbs on the facing side, rather than locked around the rim. As another example, the gear shift lever falls within easy reach of the driver with the seat adjusted for precisely the right distance to pedals and steering wheel.

The instruments are easy to read too, although there is no head up display. Powered lumbar adjust is welcome, and the driver's seat, as well as being very aggressively bolstered contoured, has seat base extension and is a key component in the excellent driving position. If there's any fault in the seating, the cushioning is somewhat unforgiving on longer journeys.

In the rear, the legroom is adequate for adults, but headroom is compromised by the long sunroof (optional for $3370). Rear-seat occupants enjoy the benefits of adjustable vents, plus cupholders in the folding centre armrest and bottle holders in the rear door bins.

The boot is reasonably practical, at 488 litres capacity, and there's a a 12-Volt power outlet back there too. A space-saver spare resides under the boot floor, and that's not entirely welcome, but better that than a tyre repair kit when the Continental tyres measure different sizes – 265/40 R21 at the front and 295/35 R21 at the rear.

Much as the Macan Turbo provided plenty of smile-inducing thrills during its few days with the carsales team, it was annoying to have to re-connect a paired phone for music streaming. This is not the first time we've encountered this sort of problem with a Porsche product, but we thought that was well and truly resolved by now.

Still, if that – and lack of a head-up display – count as the Macan Turbo's major failings, we could live with that.

How much does the 2020 Porsche Macan Turbo cost?
Price: $142,000 (plus on-road costs); $166,670 (as tested, plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.9-litre six-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 324kW/550Nm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch
Fuel: 10.0L/100km; 12.1L/100km (as tested)
CO2: 229g/km
Safety Rating: TBA