2015 Porsche Macan S Review: Luxury SUV with True Sports Car Performance

As Porsche’s first attempt at a compact luxury SUV, the 2015 Porsche Macan S still happens to be the most fun-to-drive luxury SUV available nearly a decade after it was introduced. Porsche was never going to compromise on driving dynamics for luxury SUV status, the Macan S has sport-scar handling, rapid acceleration, a posh interior and it is still large enough to haul your family around. It really is one of the top all-around luxury SUVs to purchase used.

If you want a luxury SUV that is also a ton of fun to drive the 2015 Porsche Macan S is a fantastic SUV for you.

Exterior Design

The first impression you’ll have is the one you can have on a genuine Porsche, not an everyday SUV. Oval-shaped Porsche lights and engine lid add up to large air intakes in front that scream performance. The car’s side gets that distinctive coupe silhouette while it doesn’t restrict head space for rear occupants.

The LED tail lights in the rear, with twin exhaust pipe and a neat, imposing design will complete your impression of the Porsche SUV.

Although close to ten years have passed since its first launch, it will certainly not feel dated, as many rivals of the same age have.

Interior Quality

Slide into the cockpit of a Macan S and the Porsche care that went into this cabin becomes apparent. Soft touch materials, high-quality leather, brushed aluminum and rock solid build quality make for a luxurious experience inside the cabin of the Porsche. You get an easy access to suspension settings, climate controls, drive modes etc. With the abundance of physical buttons found on the centre console of the Macan S.

The three spoke, multifunction steering wheel feels athletic and a cluster consisting of a blend of analog instruments and a digital display.

There’s also a comfortable seating position which provides great visibility.

Engine and Performance

Underneath its hood, the 2015 Porsche Macan S packs a 3.0-liter, twin-turbo V6 gasoline.

Engine Specifications

PowertrainsEngine: 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6

Power: 340 horsepower

Torque: 460 Nm (339 lb-ft)

Transmission: 7-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic

Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)Top

Speed: 254 km/h (158 mph)0-100 km/h: Approximately 5.4 seconds0-60 mph: Around 5.2 seconds

Power comes via a twin-turbo V6 and it is strong and instant throughout the rev range, making pulling away from lights or accelerating into an overtake simply a breeze whether you’re in town or on the open road. But the real stand-out element of the Macan S has to be the gearbox – Porsche’s PDK. The gearchanges are blindingly fast and ultra-smooth and as a result the Macan S really does drive more like a sports saloon than an SUV.

Driving Experience

This is one thing where the Macan S really shines. In a sea of similar SUVs that feel heavy, the Macan feels light on its feet, well-balanced, and confident when the roads get curvy. The engineers worked with the suspension to make it perform at a level you typically find in a sports car without making you regret every speed bump.

The steering is communicative and the AWDsystem grips really well in dry as well as wet weather conditions.

This SUV performs beautifully regardless if you’re on highways, navigating traffic, or tearing through backroads in the mountains. With its selectable driving modes, you can also have it dialed up into the Sport or Sport Plus setting, or dial it down into a comfy cruiser.

Technology Features

The 2015 Macan S has some good tech packed inside.

Some standard features:

• Navigation system

• Bluetooth capability

• USB and Aux ports

• Premium sound system

• Voice controls

• Dual-zone climate control

• Power front seats

• Heated seats (depending on trim)

• Parking sensors.

• Power liftgate

• Cruise control

• Backup camera

Passenger Space

The Macan seats five occupants. Space is plentiful up front for those in the driver’s seat and their co-pilot – while there is space for adults in the rear for the occasional longer trip and it’s great for kids in the back. The seats are supportive enough that they don’t make you tired over longer distances – while the rear is not the best in class for space it’s plenty enough for families.

Fuel Economy

Just so you know though, you trade your fuel economy.

Here is what the fuel economy is roughly:

City – Approx. 12-13 L / 100km
Highway – Approx. 8-9 L / 100km
Combined – Approx. 10-11 L / 100km

You will want to use premium fuel with this vehicle to give it the most power. It may not be the most frugal SUV on the market, but you’re paying for it.

Safety Features

Porsche equipped the Macan S with a strong list of safety technologies.

Key safety features include:

• Multiple Airbags
• Traction Control
• Brake Assist
• Hill Hold Control
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors
• Rearview Camera
• Optional Lane Departure Warning
• Optional Adaptive Cruise Control

Reliability

As a rule, the 2015 Porsche Macan S has been a solid vehicle when it has been properly serviced and maintained. As is usually the case with most German luxury cars, the service costs are not going to be quite as inexpensive as those found in a conventional family-sized sport utility vehicle. Some of the mechanical failures that have been noted in several instances by past and current owners of the Macan S include those listed below.

Transfer Case Problems Leaking of Oil on vehicles with more miles than the ones with low miles.

The Cooling System. Suspension issues. Electronic sensors failing to work. Ideally, you’ll want to see full service records before you purchase one of these vehicles.

You definitely want one that has been maintained according to the recommended service intervals.

Ownership Costs

Costs will vary – servicing, Insurance and original Porsche parts come as the premium ownership to the car.

Annual upkeep is often based upon the amount you may well be travelling or on the car condition yet; the purchaser ought to recognize this might appear upon their bill.

Pros

Powerful twin-turbo V6 engine
Outstanding handling
Quick PDK transmission
Premium interior quality
Excellent all-wheel-drive performance
Comfortable ride
Strong resale value
Timeless exterior styling

Cons

Expensive maintenance
Rear seat slightly tight for taller passengers
Fuel economy could be better
Many desirable features were optional
Repairs can be costly outside warranty