2015 Porsche Macan

While Porsche may still focus their most publicized efforts on the 911 sports car, the last decade has seen them expand into segments purists never saw coming. And such is the case again, with the compact Macan SUV - new for 2015.

Sharing its chassis with the Audi Q5, the Macan nevertheless is totally distinctive: with a clear 911 flavor up front, and an ultra-smooth rear, it’s longer and lower than the Q5, with a wider track front and rear. Wheelbase, though, is the same.

There are two Macans at launch: The Macan S, with a 3.0 liter twin turbo V6 rated at 340 horsepower. The Macan Turbo upgrades to a new-for-Porsche 3.6 liter twin-turbo V6 and 400 horsepower. Both are mated to the always great 7 speed PDK transmission. In our initial outing the S showed plenty of power, with the Turbo really stepping up the intensity; rewarding a heavy right foot with a loud growl and a near instant rush.

There are options-aplenty for both models. Adjustable damping control, an air-suspension to replace the standard steel springs, torque vectoring, sport chrono package with launch control…the list, and the dollar signs, go on.

All-wheel drive is standard, bringing dedicated “sport” and “off-road” modes with it—nothing too extreme, but enough to get you out of a jam. As for cargo carrying, its max of 53 cubic feet is a bit less than the Q5.

PATRICK LUCAS: ...if you’re expecting the Macan to be a sports car, it’s not going to be that, because it’s not a car…but this thing is just infused with so much Porsche DNA, and all of their latest and greatest technologies, that you’re really getting almost as complete a sport package as you could ever want…

JOHN DAVIS: On sale now, the Macan S starts around $51,000; the Macan Turbo jumps to $73,000.