Porsche Macan EV 2024 Review

In the increasingly crowded luxury electric SUV market, consumers are no longer just focused on brand appeal, but now place greater emphasis on a balance of performance, range, and practicality. As Porsche's first medium-sized SUV built on the PPE all-electric platform, the Porsche Macan EV officially launched this July with four configuration versions, ranging from the rear-wheel-drive base model to the high-performance Turbo. In this test drive, we explored the Macan 4 EV and Turbo EV, the two core models, to see if it can continue the driving pleasure of the fuel-powered Macan while meeting user needs for range and luxury in the electric era.

The exterior of the Macan EV retains the family-style design of the fuel-powered version but incorporates more electric-specific features in the details. The overall body dimensions are 4784mm×1938mm×1622mm, with a wheelbase of 2893mm. The side profile features sleek lines while maintaining the advantage of a high SUV seating position. The front eliminates the traditional grille and adopts a closed-off design complemented by a full-width LED daytime running light, giving it high recognizability; the rear LED taillights also adopt a full-width design, creating a simple and stylish visual effect when lit. The appearance differences between the base version and the Turbo version are mainly reflected in the body surrounds and wheels—Turbo versions are equipped with larger sporty wheels and dual-sided quad decorative exhaust outlets (which are actually design elements for the electric model), enhancing its sporty appeal.

Once seated inside, the Macan EV's interior continues Porsche's luxurious texture, incorporating more technological features. The center console adopts a layered design and is equipped with a standard 12.6-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 10.9-inch central touchscreen, both of which support CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, offering fluid operational experiences befitting a luxury brand. In terms of materials, all models come standard with leather seats, with the front seats offering power adjustment, and the Turbo version optionally available with a Burmester sound system (21 speakers). As for space, the 2893mm wheelbase provides ample rear legroom—a 175cm-tall passenger will find about two fists' worth of room between their knees and the front seat. The trunk offers 540L of cargo space, which can comfortably fit three 20-inch suitcases, meeting the needs of family use. Moreover, all models come standard with keyless entry, automatic windshield wipers, and automatic LED headlights, ensuring convenience features are well in place.

Regarding dynamic driving, the performance varies significantly across different models. Starting with the Macan 4 EV, it is equipped with dual motors at the front and rear, delivering a system-wide output of 300kW (408PS) and 650N·m of torque, achieving an official 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 5.2 seconds. In everyday driving, power response is linear and swift, and pressing the accelerator firmly gives a noticeable push-back sensation, making overtaking effortless. Steering feels precise, and the suspension tuning leans towards sportiness, while also doing a thorough job of absorbing vibrations when navigating speed bumps or bumpy roads, offering a balanced blend of handling and comfort. As for range, the official figure is 613km. During city driving (with air conditioning at 22°C), the actual range achievement rate was about 85% over 100km, showcasing stable performance. Fast charging from 10%-80% takes only 0.35 hours, which is suitable for long-distance energy replenishment needs.

The performance of the Turbo version is even more impressive, with a system combined power of 470kW (639PS), torque of 1130N·m, and a 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 3.3 seconds. The power output can be described as explosive. When switched to Sport mode, the throttle response becomes more sensitive, with a consistent sense of thrust throughout the acceleration process. The top speed can reach 260km/h. In terms of the chassis, the Turbo version is equipped with adaptive air suspension (optional). In Sport mode, the suspension becomes stiffer, and body roll is minimal during cornering; in Comfort mode, it absorbs most of the road vibrations, making it suitable for daily commuting. Noise control is well-managed, with wind and tire noise barely noticeable even at 120km/h on highways, and only a slight electric motor sound heard during rapid acceleration.

Overall, the core advantages of the Macan EV lie in three aspects: First, it inherits Porsche's handling DNA, delivering a precise driving experience even as an electric car. Second, it offers balanced performance in terms of range and charging, with a 100kWh battery pack paired with an efficient motor system that can meet the daily needs of most users. Third, it comes with rich configurations, including standard safety features (such as active braking, eight airbags) and comfort features (such as electric seats, automatic air conditioning), which make it highly competitive in the luxury electric SUV segment. Compared to similar models like the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz EQC, the Macan EV stands out more in terms of acceleration performance and brand value, especially with the Turbo version's unmatched performance capabilities.

This model is suitable for two types of consumers: One is family users who value driving pleasure. The balanced performance and spacious interior of the Macan 4 EV can meet the needs of daily commuting and family outings. The other is young consumers in pursuit of high performance. The explosive acceleration and sporty tuning of the Turbo version can provide a thrilling driving experience. However, it should be noted that many features are optional, such as the HUD head-up display and ACC adaptive cruise control, which require additional payment. Consumers with limited budgets need to choose options wisely.

In conclusion, the Porsche Macan EV successfully combines the brand's sporty DNA with electrification technology, retaining the driving pleasure of the fuel-powered version while meeting the range and technological demands of electric models. Whether for daily commuting or occasional spirited driving, it can handle it effortlessly, making it a worthy choice in the luxury electric SUV market.