2018 Porsche Macan Turbo with Performance Package

The days of doubting that Porsche can pack their level of performance into an SUV are long gone. So, for those of you who need compact ute practicality, but demand more thrill from the throttle, we suggest the 2018 Porsche Macan Turbo with recently added Performance package. 

At first glance there’s little to give this top of the Macan mix away. But looks can be deceiving. Step on the gas, and power pumps 10-percent over the Macan Turbo to a full 440 horsepower. That’s by way of a newly calibrated twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 with robust sounding sport exhaust. A 7-speed PDK double-clutch transmission triggers purposeful shifts while the torque keeps climbing.

The Sport Chrono package, with Sport Plus mode, is included too… and we think the punch produces a launch that’s as good as it gets. The All-Wheel drive also pitches in, so we actually bettered the company’s 4.2 second 0-to-60 claim.

Along with better acceleration… the Performance Pack’s sport chassis puts you about 4-tenths of an inch closer to the road. Porsche Active Suspension Management with air suspension keeps the ride comfortable while retaining great high speed stability. When it comes time to stop, larger, grooved front brake discs with 6-piston calipers bring you to a halt in a hurry. 

The Macan has only been part of the Porsche posse since the 2015 model year. And, they’re obviously following the 911 philosophy of gradually adding more power, pushing their wildly successful SUV up notch after notch. Whether or not Porsche makes a Macan Turbo S remains to be seen. For now, this 2018 Porsche Macan Turbo with Performance Package fills our need for space and speed. It’s on sale now starting at about $88,000.