2024 Porsche Macan EV unveiled

The wait is finally over and the Porsche Macan EV is no longer a figment of dreams and imagination - it is real and it wants your wallet. After numerous delays, courtesy of Volkswagen’s software issues, Porsche is now bringing the second generation of the Macan packed with new technology to the brim. There’s much to unpack here so let’s dive in.

There are two models available - the $84,500 Macan 4 with 408 hp twin-motor powertrain, and the beastly $107,000 Macan Turbo with 639 hp on tap. The Macan 4 gets 479 lb-ft of torque and deals with the 0 - 100 km/h sprint in 5.2 seconds (0 to 60 mph in 4.9 s). The Macan Turbo has a 833 lb-ft mountain of torque and cuts the sprint time down to 3.3 seconds (0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds).

Both models share the same 100 kWh battery pack, with 95 kWh capacity available for use. Courtesy of the permanently excited motors (both front and rear), combined with the Cd of just 0.25, regenerative braking capable of putting as much as 240 kW of electricity back into the battery, and clever software, the Macan comes with an impressive driving range. The Macan 4 offers up to 381 miles and Macan Turbo promises 367 miles on the WLTP mixed cycle. But if the new Macan sticks to city speeds, the range goes up to 487 miles for the base model, while the Turbo can stretch its legs to 475 miles.

Both models are based on the new 800V PPE platform. Finding an 800V capable charger may be an issue for now, but if successful - the Macan can charge at up to 270 kW. That translates to 10-80% recharge time of 21 minutes - in perfect conditions of course. But Macan has a trick up its sleeve - if it is plugged into a 400V DC charger, it simply splits its battery pack into two 400V parts, each capable of taking up to 135 kW charge. Home charging is supported at up to 11 kW - it is bound to take time though.

For the first time we get to appreciate the Macan without any camouflage, and although the last camo did not cover much, the finished Macan is quite a sight. Low-slung hood, with pronounced wings flanked by the signature DRL set - it’s all unmistakably Porsche. The headlights have been shifted down into the bumper and when not lit, they blend in well into the air vents. The rear lights are sleek and hug the entire rear, the entire vehicle is slightly longer and sits lower than the outgoing model (188.3 inches long, 76.3 inches wide and 63.9 inches high), the 22” rims (optional) fill in the arches perfectly - it’s a highly accomplished design, no doubt.

Step inside and the feel of an SUV is gone. The driving position is low, and the dashboard reminiscent of that from Taycan, spans wide but is kept low for an unobstructed view forward. The centre console sits high hugging both the driver and the passenger. 3 screens come to life with a flick of the ignition button - a dedicated 12.9” instrument panel and two 10.9” infotainment screens, one central and one for the passenger. Add to it an 87” HUD and an LED light spanning across the dash and doors, that not only illuminate but communicate as well - and we have a complete and fairly sophisticated package.

The infotainment system itself runs on Google’s Android Automotive platform. It is voice-operated, it offers a host of functions with clever navigation including charging stops, and it allows for third-party apps to be installed directly.

Thankfully, Porsche hasn't neglected or softened the driving experience. In fact, the company has stepped up its game, and the new Macan - at least on paper - seems like a very capable performer, stepping on the toes not only of its bigger sibling Cayenne but even the electric Taycan. We have the full air suspension (optional on Macan 4) with Porsche’s famous PASM electronic damping. The dampers now sport two-valve tech with much quicker response and much more precise control. There’s an optional rear-axle steering which cuts the turning circle down to 437 inches thanks to its 5 degrees of movement. All that combined with the low driving position, and low center of gravity translates to a car that will handle way better than its predecessor.

But the Macan is an SUV after all, and it doesn’t forget its load-carrying role. Porsche managed to squeeze in 19.1 ft³ of cargo space behind the rear seats, which extends to 47.6 ft³ with the seats down. Add to it the 2.97 ft³ frunk and a 4,410 lb towing capacity and we have one very capable SUV on our hands.

The wait is over, the new Macan is finally here and it comes to a very busy EV table bearing tons of gifts. Fast, capable, spacious, nimble - just not cheap or even affordable. Truly a premium, no-compromise EV, and with 800,000 units of the first generation Macan sold in the last 10 years, Porsche won’t have a problem finding buyers for the new version.

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