Smaller than Porsche's Cayenne, the Macan bridges the gap between the company's popular large SUV and its iconic sports cars
Although it’s based on the same platform as the Audi Q5, the Macan shares few components. The front end of this new Porsche SUV features signature large air intakes.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Porsche designers tried to create a shape that combines utility with sports car design cues such as flared fenders wrapped around fat tires.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
The Macan is built in three versions - the most powerful is this top-of-the-range Turbo model, with 400 horsepower.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Wide, low-profile tires and multilink independent suspension give the Macan significant cornering grip.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
The Macan’s interior follows the pattern established by the Panamera and the new 911. Following Porsche tradition, the ignition is to the left of the steering wheel.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
A test drive through the former East Germany gave me the opportunity to try the Macan in a series of environments, from the autobahn to the winding streets of ancient towns.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Out on the German autobahn, the Macan was perfectly stable at speeds that would land you in jail back in Canada.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
The Porsche Macan in front of Porsche’s delivery centre in Liepzig, Germany.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
The Macan’s adjustable-height suspension and torque-vectoring power train worked well on an off-road test session.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Despite its sports car-like road manners, the Macan can handle side slopes of up to 45 degrees.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Although few drivers will use it, the Macan has an off-road mode that raises the suspension and lowers gearing.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Macan SUVs ready for the Porsche test track at Liepzig.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Fast laps on the track.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Porsche predicts the company will sell 50,000 Macans in its first year.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Porsche SUV division executive Oliver Laqua, shown here, says the compact SUV will bring a new generation of buyers to the iconic German brand.Peter Cheney`/The Globe and Mail
The Macan’s front suspension features a carefully calibrated electronic power steering rack and air-adjustable ride height.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Porsche engineer Peter Steinkirchner with an iPad illustration of the Macan’s rear suspension setup.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail
Yellow calipers indicate that this Macan is equipped with optional ceramic-composite brakes. They’re expensive, but have been a popular option on Porsche sports cars thanks to their reduced weight and ability to cope with the demands of high-performance driving.Peter Cheney/The Globe and Mail