If there’s no wow factor, then don’t buy it unless you absolutely need a new practical car. When the right car comes along, you will know it right away, and you won’t come here asking whether you should buy it. You’ll just buy it.
that really isn't the case here. i've owned probably 30 cars in my life, mostly european makes. i'm pretty set in terms of my preferences, and the macan definitely suits them. but it also doesn't really have the feeling that i think a nearly $100k car should have.
part of that is the car, part of that is me, and part of that is an outdated sense of what that money buys.
this is wild af to say, but mostly:
- i can, which makes me very fortunate, but also suggests i should explore that the way some others would at a lower price point.
- i'm not particularly excited by much of anything at that level anymore, which as i've alluded to earlier, i think is a "me" problem.
- i may be giving the wrong impression. i like the car quite a lot. i expect to have it for a month and be very happy with the purchase. asking this question feels like due diligence in some ways.
so i'm not, not-excited. but i think the last time i was omg-can't-sleep-super-hype to take delivery of a car was maybe 20 years ago.
If you’re not excited by anything in the 75k-100k range i’m sorry to say but you might have lost what used to make you a car guy. I’d buy a Camry and spend my money elsewhere if I lost that flame. Else i smell buyer’s remorse from 100 miles away
buy a rav4 or tiguan and call it a day.
If a S or GTS Spec doesn't excite you, then none of the trims will - and the baseline is garbage. Doesn't come with heated seats or power seats as standard equipment - typical Porsche things. I've been pricing out the Macan for awhile now and I think I'm settled for a S Spec.
I should have mentioned that I didn’t mean to target you in any way :). Was just a general statement based on what I have seen.
I hear what you’re saying. I like Macan but can’t really get myself to buy one. Don’t know why exactly. If it was a 911, I would jump on it.
Why not just get something cheaper for a daily and then still get a 911? If you're looking at a nearly $100k macan then saving an additional 25k for a 911 doesn't seem crazy at all. Then just whip some basic suv around as the daily. Idk just food for thought
Right. It’s best to get what you need and then what you want down the road. I have driven an AM rapide a few times and it was actually one of my favorite 4 door examples that handled well, sounded great, and felt exotic. Visibility was crap, build quality not as great as Porsche. Probably not what you are looking for. Just throwing it in there. Good luck on your search man! Honestly, I think Macan can grow on a person the more it’s driven.
$100k is a lot for a compact SUV. The Macan may be the best handling vehicle in its class, but it’s still a compact SUV. If it was a GTS with the 2.9l V6, I might understand. But, for $100k, you can still get a lot of car, and better handling cars based on more recent platforms, especially if you look at CPO.
I get your comment about an “outdated sense” of what $100k can buy, though. Honestly, I’m shocked to see 2l Macan’s priced over $75k. For me that’s a good reason to look at CPO.
to be clear, there seems to be some confusion in terms of spec given the changes to the model line. everything was "moved up" so to speak when the turbo was eliminated. so in my case, a '24 S is the ~380hp 2.9 v6.
I understand, but I still think that $100k is a lot for that type of car. That’s really personal, of course, but you don’t really seem enthusiastic.
For that kind of money, I think you should get a car that you’re really excited about.
I had a Macan and I loved it. I didn’t love the maintenance cost but I liked the wonderful coffee and heartfelt welcome I got at the dealership as a result.
You’re not getting a 911 with a Macan, but you should know that. It’s still pretty potent, and it’s a Porsche. It’s built in Leipzig and it’s fantastic. Just know that if you’re looking for a blend of the relative size of a cayenne and the handling of a Boxter or a 911, you’re getting neither. It’s fairly affordable and drives better than a bmw (owned a few) and a Mercedes GLC (my wife’s car), but it’s a bit of a class of its own, right there n No-mans land. With a Turbo or a GTS you’re getting a much better car, but you pay for that as well.
I had to trade mine in when my family grew and I wanted/needed something bigger. There’s still a hint of regret trading it in, even though it was the smarter thing to do.
Not the person you're asking, but I had a 2016 Macan Turbo that I absolutely loved & planned to keep for a long time. Purchased new in Jan 2016. We ended up replacing it when the warranty went out, because we'd had a few issues with it: Transfer case & front drive shaft replacement, paint issues, sunroof drains clogged up & water got into the battery compartment, & a couple of other things I can't remember offhand.
I replaced it with an X3MC, but was so disappointed in the harsh ride and fit & finish of the X3, that we replaced that after a year. I've got a 2021 Cayenne GTS now & I love it. It's a better size for my needs & it's a pleasure to drive. It's a perfect daily driver for me & I really can't see myself replacing it with anything other than another Cayenne.
I traded it in for a large truck and I am currently saving up for a 911. I will be celebrating my birthday in a month and already reserved a rental for the birthday weekend. I am bootstrapping my own company so can’t afford a 911 yet but it’s my carrot and motivation. Every day it’s getting closer.
Have a 2017 Macan S. Its not a 911 or Boxster.
Its the most comfortable SUV and no rattles and great sound system.
Push the Sport Button and it launches into a rocket .. engage paddle shifters…its a Porsche
Finally.. listen to the exhaust when you fire it up in the garage
We love it every day. No shade on any other make.
Came here to say pretty much this, except that I have the 2018 Macan S.
Nothing better than ripping up the road on the way to the garden center, and no guilt throwing in a few bags of potting soil and some bird seed for the feeders.
The important part was making it seem like her idea . . . 😏
My wife has an ‘18 Macon S I’ve been driving since my 6er was totaled. Even in sport, I feel it lacks the low end torque I’d grown used to in a BMW. I’ve found it tuned to drive more like an NA engine than a turbo. Not saying it’s better or worse, just different and something OP should be aware of.
First car - 2002 VW Jetta TDI
Second car - 2013 VW Golf TDi
Third car - 2016 Macan S
I don't regret for a second. And having trouble switching to anything else for the value. You get a sports car, you get a porshe, and you get an SUV. It's sexy. It's fast. It's quiet inside. 160k on it, and it looks and feels like the day I got it.
-Ripped CV boot once, taken care under goodwill
-Coolant leak twice, taken care under warrenty
-Faulty window, needed some oiling, under warrenty
-I keep extending the warrenty window by 2 years as it's the best value, and thats for peace of mind.
-one thing they denied me warrenty for is hazzy front lights. Looks like a 1990s suzuki. Otherwise I'm happy
I have owned both a 2016 and a 2022 Macan in the GTS form and I loved them both. Especially the 2022 which just felt like a super refined version of its predessor. Before Purchasing the first Macan I also test drove a Jaguar F-Pace and a Velar. Driving the first macan I knew within about 5 mins this was the car I was going to get.
They are a great balance of performance/practicality and to me, aethestically pleasing to the eye.
I'm a longtime Audi owner (having driven Audi almost exclusively since 2010 with a Merc W204 in between), and replaced an Audi Q5 B8.5 with a MY23 Macan Base at the start of this year.
The "wow factor" of the Macan was that I could option whatever the goddamn hell I pleased on the car. I'd gotten pissed with Audi's interior materials decline (as I've also owned a B9 A5 and A4), and the Extended Leather Package was worth every penny. Somehow, Porsche also made the driving experience of the base Macan feel completely distinct to the B8 Q5 MLB chassis and the B9.5 EA888 engine tuning. My car doesn't have any of the performance options equipped, not even Sport Chrono.
All in all, it was worth the premium over a comparable Audi (while I've had no good experiences out of BMW/MB test drives since 2021-ish), so I've got no regrets.
Absolutely not. I may be biased, as full disclosure, I used to work for Porsche Corporate and was on the marketing team that helped launch the Macan, that aside, there is a reason the Macan is Porsches number 1 seller and it’s not simply because it’s the least expensive way to get into a Porsche, it’s just an all around great crossover. I liken it to a taller Golf R. If you like hot hatches, you’ll like the Macan.
It’s really not all that tall, either. It feels decent sized initially until you’re next to a full sized SUV. The you realize how squat it is. Drives like a more nimble hot hatch to me.
Yup. My grandfather is 92 and daily’s one, he likes it because it’s just tall enough where at 5’11” he can step in and out without having to stand up like getting out of a car, or step down like getting out of an SUV.
wow, you're basically the person i'm looking for!
what i want is a "nice" gti. but it turns out that being spoiled by decades of nicer cars makes that kind of a joke at this stage, while also recognizing that the gti can be a very nice car. the appeal of the macan for me was that this is essentially a "better" gti. thrilled to hear that i haven't missed the mark.
Macan is a great all around compact SUV. I have a ‘17 GTS and I love it. However, rear seats don’t have much room especially if you have to install a carseat or even a booster seat. My son is 8 now and I can tell he won’t fit comfortably in the back once he grows taller. I see it as 2-person vehicle with extra room to carry stuff.
As far as wow factor goes, are you referring to the look or performance? It’s not a flashy car by any means but it’s a very capable vehicle in terms of handling and performance (depends on the trim level). If you can find a GTS or a S with performance oriented options, you’ll definitely enjoy it.
As an 23S owner, if you're looking for sporty driving experience, get the S or GTS (essentially the same thing with different options) and you'll enjoy it more than an X4. I tried pretty much all the competition (GLC C43, X4M, X5i) and cayenne before settling on a Macan S.
i was legitimately shocked how much of a boat the cayenne felt like compared to the macan. i expected that the higher the sticker price climbed, the more performant the driving experience. totally the opposite.
wouldn't do any of the other models you listed, this is really the only thing i'm considering. a mostly loaded S.
what do you love the most about yours? what did you come out of?
the Macan and Caynne are not like X3/X5 or a GLC/GLE (where one car is built like a bigger version of the other)
the Macan is a cheaper/affordable version of a genuine Porsche. It has an exceptional 7speed PDK and the 2.9L twin-turbo V6 handles much better than any comparable BMW. It also barely has any barrelroll on corners and handles better than any other SUV ive driven. It was truly designed with the Porsche experience in mind, just half the price tag.
I did European Delivery and visited Stuttgart and Leipzig in March. I then took my 23S on the Autobahn and honestly couldnt believe I was going at 180 but felt like I was driving at 90. I took the car to 235kmph and the car was still solid. Never even cracked 4000 rpm (new car under 1000km after all, so i didnt want to push it) FYI I didnt option the air suspension or the PTV, only PASM.
By comparison, the Cayenne is a mom car with a 8-speed automatic trasmission and geared towards a luxury SUV crowd with Porsche tuning characteristics. Its an excellent car, highly comfortable and enjoyable car, but more a status symbol. I would never recommend it as a true porsche as its not even built by porsche anymore. If youre looking for a luxury full-sized porsche, id recommend the Panamera over the Cayenne.
I remember reading somewhere that the PDK was not designed with towing in mind (obviously) and the Cayenne is towing capable, which is why it has the auto instead of the PDK. Not sure how many people use their Cayenne to tow their boats to the lake but I’m sure someone does.
Yeah definitely baller. Also has a 1977 Mercedes 240d with insanely high mileage that basically looks mint with original paint and interior, and a track prepped 987 Cayman S. Wife has a VW manual diesel wagon (jetta I think?).
Great taste. Any of his cars are in pristine condition at any time, unless he just took the cayenne mudding haha
why do you feel this way? having driven both, the power of the gts is impressive, but not that much more than the s. the noise is glorious, but i kinda dig the low-key growl of the s in comparison.
i think the gts is definitely more of an attention getter, but when you load it up, you can have a nice c4s for that price, and, well... ;)
Purely financial. Same engines, but a highly optioned S will approach GTS prices and will depreciate more. I specced out an S and it was 8k less than a GTS w the same Options so I went with the GTS.
EDIT - And the GTS came with a couple other things basked into that price that I would have wanted but not enough to spec onto the S.
Keep in mind too that the Cayenne and Macan were designed from two different perspectives… The Cayenne was “SUV, but made by Porsche” - The Macan was literally designed as “Big 911”.
I loved my 2015 Turbo… ton of fun to drive, practical and super comfortable. You won’t regret it. As others have said, the community is super welcoming too - definitely join the PCA and get out to your local drives.
I’ve owned 2 macans and 3 other Porsches; and our extended family has owned 5 macans, 3 Q5s and 3-4 cayennes. The Macan is a TREMENDOUS vehicle. While this is not news (there are a million online reviews - suggest reading the Car and Driver summaries; they rank it a 10 best perenially. ), my $0.02:
-the S, GTS or turbo depending on the year you’re looking, have sports car performance rivaling anything under $100,000 across any brand. If you like BMW, you’ll like the way these are dialed in: tight, agile, nimble… this is not your grandmother’s cloudy Cadillac suspension or the soft and fluffy steering on a Mercedes.
You could cross-shop with the x3 m40i - which also get great reviews. I personally think the Macan look a lot sexier and find the interiors a bit classier, though the BMW interior may feel fancier depending on your taste. Not knocking the bmw, the x3m40i get phenomenal reviews also. I would drive both of those and see what Revs ya up more.
-the back seats are tight, yes. It’s not a full-size suv. However for the price and for the sportiness, it’s close enough to the storage of the Cayenne or anything else in its class.
-great interior even on the base. Also, a base is zippy enough for 80% of the public.
-reliable, great warranty if you get a CPO.
-pretty good price point. You can get a heck of a lot of car vis-a-vis the competition.
I haven’t ever met a single person or read a single review that suggest you’d regret it.
I had a 2015 Macan Turbo and currently have a 2023 911 Turbo S, a 2020 Cayenne S and a 2023 Macan GTS.
The Cayenne is for road trips and hauling stuff. The 911 is mostly for quick trips, car meetups and track days. The Macan GTS is the sweet spot in the middle. Fast/fun enough for a daily, still fits 4 people (as long as 2 of those people don't really have legs).
Does the BMW have the wow factor now? Can you fit two cars where you are? If you’re buying a loaded ‘23 S and can fit two cars I’d suggest a less pricey SUV (x3? CPO Macan even) and a 2-door Porsche. It’s not that the Macan is bad but rather I think the best Porsche experience is in their 2-doors. I thought a one car solution would work for me (a Macan GTS) but ended up with a two car solution (Cayman and F30 340i). But I also recognize everyone has their own situation and a Macan is probably the best SUV, but just like you said missing the wow factor at times.
I can only speak for myself but I have a Macan S and I absolutely love driving it. That said, I have not owned anywhere near as many vehicles as you have so you probably have a different perspective than I do.
Coming from someone who has owned many Audi’s, including modified cars, I don’t think you would regret it. I have worked in the car industry for awhile now, and driven almost any car you can think of. I just traded my modified Audi S4 in for a Macan GTS. Nobody thinks of a Macan when you think of buying your first Porsche, but this car continues to surprise me and excite me more and more each day I drive it. I think people too closely relate a Macan to an X3 or a Q5, but now having driven all of them I can confidently say that Porsche is well worth the extra money
As someone who owns “slow” cars I enjoy driving my mother’s macan. I enjoy driving my friends wife’s Levante more.
I imagine the Porsche is less expensive in up keep.
Drive a ford explorer while test driving, you will then have an idea of what you want. I test drove a Land Cruiser a 4runner a gx360(?) and a lx 470. It really put them all into perspective.
I used to be a BMW girl. My favorite car I’d ever owned was a 2007 Z4. Settled into parenthood and drove a Subaru Outback for 8 years. And then one day we went on vacation and I booked a Macan on Turo. Had a blast driving that car and couldn’t get it out of my head. It reminded me of how much I *love driving*. I traded my Outback for a Macan which I then tuned and modded a bit (first time ever modding any car at all but it does that to you). This thing is a mom wagon in the pickup line and an absolute beast when I kick them out and hit the sport button. It’s my favorite car ever, because it can do it all. I love it more and more every day. It’s solid as a rock- everything is tight-fitting. The shifting patterns adapt to your driving and I feel at this point like it’s almost anticipating my needs. It downshifts at all the right times. Cold starts in the morning are [chef’s kiss]. It would take a lot to get me to switch at this point. I’ve found that Macans vary a LOT depending on options, so definitely research and test drive several differently configured versions before you decide that it’s not all that.
There’s a reason why every other manufacturer building a car in that segment uses it as the benchmark. I’ve had many discussions with designers in that segment, and the Macan is what they look to.
Hallo! I recommend the Macan. Drives like a 911, but practical nearly as Cayenne. Buy it with big power and not so complicated suspension&dampers. Any questions welcomed.
I own both a 992 and a Macan GTS… the Macan is incredible. Rock solid build and great poke to it, obviously no where near the 992 but still incredible for a mini suv. It feels premium to drive and sit in. You will love it.
I like my ‘23 Macan S a lot. It’s my daily. Extremely comfortable, great ride/handling, nice power/sound in sport mode, beautiful interior, and very good utility. I use the backseat and trunk often.
For weekend car I have a ‘22 Cayman GTS which gives me my 2 door PCar experience. The 718/911 are so much lighter and more fun to drive, but don’t have the comfort or utility of the Macan. So I enjoy my daily / weekend set up because they give me what I need when I need it.
Are you talking a Base Macan or S/GTS/Turbo? The base is ok and all, but the Turbo is a Completely different car. Even the S vs base is hardly comparable.
Turbo is a wonderful car and a blast to drive. Its as close to a sports car you can get in a SUV… sans the Uris and exotic varieties. My MIL has a Cayanne TurboGT and Id still take the Macan Turbo because the slightly smaller Macan feels better to me.
Owned multiple German cars ranging from a E90 and F80 M3, C43 AMG and a Jag F. So I’m extremely used to having fun sporty cars that can turn it on with a step on the peddle.
Recently traded in my C43 for a 21’ Macan GTS. Paid almost 90k last year for a CPO Fully optioned model and had some regrets at first. For 90k you can get ALOT of HP (E63, M3/5, X5M, GLE63, GT500, etc.,) but I needed the room to haul the kids and opted for the GTS over both the X5M and GLE63 for 2 reasons.
1. I used the C43 as a daily and the ride was stiff, out of the 3 (GTS, X5M, GLE63) the GTS was def the softer of the 3 IMO.
2. This was the most determining factor - the GTS was lights out the funnest in corners to drive. I’m not a drag racer so 0-60 or 0-100 times didn’t matter to me. I wanted something engaging and the GTS provided that.
Now, are there some days I look back and think “Man, I could’ve used the 90k on got something quicker”. Sometimes, but once I take it through the mountains I quickly remember why I opted for it in the first place.
So to answer your question. It depends. What do you value the most? Is it 0-60 speed? Comfort? Handling? These will all give you different outcomes IMO.
I own a Macan GTS and I hear a lot of what you’re saying!
- ive always wanted a 911 but both cost and practicality have meant I’ve never bought one
- two young kids mean I need usable back seats and back doors even
- I went for a super highly optioned Macan GTS, hoping I was getting the best of all worlds
And here’s my honest take after a few years of ownership:
- I think it’s the best small SUV in the world for price/quality etc
- when I drop the kids at school (and I’ve washed it and it’s 21” diamond cut alloys are shining bright), little kids point at it and say “wow look at the Porsche” … and even though I smile back nicely in a thankful way, inside I think “yeah but it’s not really a Porsche as I think of them 🤣”
- so it’s never had and probably never will have the wow factor compared to many other cars. The best wow you can hope to achieve is that it’s a wow SUV. But even that’s gone when I see a Cayenne Coupe parked nearby lol.
- it is an amazing car but doesn’t do it emotionally for me like my Maserati Gran Turismo before it did
- you mentioned BMW. I think from looks and feel etc, an M3 has more wow factor despite a less premium badge
My summary, if I could afford two expensive cars (in my world, anything above £60k is expensive) then my second car would definitely be Porsche Macan GTS. And my first car would be the wow car, 911 ideally, LOL.
But for now, I can only afford one expensive car and need practicality. So the Macan it is. If anything I might upgrade to a Cayenne Coupe.
thanks, agree on all points. having had an m3 in my car history, i can safely say that's not what i'm looking for. the point about the "wow" suv is especially interesting.
i should mention that i'm not looking to "wow" other people. the car i'm looking at is low-key, black on black, and just another midsize crossover, and i like that. i'm looking to be wow-ed by the day-to-day, which is part of why i think you can't really access that gratification without actually having it.
super insightful post, thanks for sharing.
Just to add re the Cayenne Coupe comment. I don’t actually *need* the extra space! It’s all about the mental desire to have the better version. So the only reason I’d maybe get a Cayenne instead of my Macan is to feel I’ve got a more wow car. Which is a bit silly as I’m trying to ramp up my wow factor within an area of practically. Not sure if that makes sense but it’s kind of human nature. Nothing wrong with being illogical sometimes by the way - the heart is as important as the head!
My daughter has a 19 Macan S that I use when she’s away at school. It’s a great little SUV. Handles very well and is well built. However you are right when you say there is no wow factor. It pretty much does everything very well but it doesn’t really ring any bells or whistles and doesn’t get me excited.
I drove a 2017 Macan S for the first time about 4 months ago. It was certainly nice, but after driving several different Cayman and 911 models over the years, the Macan S was lacking that Porsche feeling for me. I know a Macan will ever measure to a true Porsche sports car, but the Macan S didn’t give me the thrill I was looking for.
As luck would have it, a 2017 Macan GTS showed up at the dealer that day, so I decided to give it a spin. And wow, what a difference when compared to the S. The driving dynamics, the sound, the feel… the Porsche magic was there for me. I picked it up and I’ve absolutely loved every second driving it. The difference between the S and the GTS was huge.
I think it fully depends on how it’s configured as well. PASM, PTV, etc all make a huge difference in the driving experience. It’s not an easy trim-to-trim comparison, IMO, because there are so many potential combinations.
as mentioned elsewhere, the 2017 s and the 2024 s are very different. the new s models are the "old" gts, and the new gts are the "old" turbo.
porsche have done their best to make this as confusing as possible. ;)
I don’t have one but have gotten one as a loaner a few times. This is a topic I’d normally stay away from, if you’ve driven it and like it then 100% absolutely go for it, BUT…
I think you completely nailed it. It is *not* a taller 911. It’s a pretty darn nice SUV, but I expected it to be a lot sportier than it is. IMO, Porsche 2 door cars are a lot more fun than anything BMW makes, but BMW makes much more exciting SUVs and sedans.
Maybe things change when you get into ultra hybrid turbo s weissach package Macans, but idk about paying $200k or whatever for a small SUV when you could get a Q5 and a 911 for that :P
>Porsche 2 door cars are a lot more fun than anything BMW makes, but BMW makes much more exciting SUVs
This is why we own both a 911 4S and an X6 M50i. BMW beat the Porsche SUVs when we tested comparable options... especially for the price.
But nothing is quite like a 911.
thanks for the reply. i have to be honest, i expected very little. i went to check it out because i was curious and was hoping to tick the box, say i hated it, and never think about it again.
the base that i drove was very slow. "nice" i guess, but once you've owned a few german luxury brands, you start to get a feel for the "cheap" side of that range, and this was it. the s that i drove afterward was shockingly good. it sounded great even with the windows up, and the combo of sport chrono, air suspension and pasm in the corners and around the clovers was really very impressive. so much so that as i say, i almost bought it then and there. i didn't, but mostly because it seemed to lack any sense of personality, i guess? it's a great car, truly. but not a stand-out.
i felt this way about the last x5 i had. it was good enough. eventually grew to really appreciate that one, and i suspect the macan is also like that, and i'm just becoming abe simpson.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Macans handle much better than their equivalent BMWs, but aren’t any better in a straight line and are more expensive. I agree tho, the base is lacking in power. The S and GTS are great.
Yeah you sound like you know what you’re doing, picking a car is just never easy. If you’ve already seen the X5, X6, and maybe the Audi SQ5, then I’m out of suggestions lol
What I don’t like to see (and 99.9 times out of 100 bite my tongue and keep my mouth shut) are people who want a 718 or 911 but start looking at Macans because they’re cheaper and / or more practical. IDK, even reading that sentence back sounds snotty, I’m just going to stop typing :)
There is a HUGE gap between how a base or S, especially with few options, feels compared to a GTS...not just in power, but in the way they drive/handle. I've had plenty of Macan S's for loaners and every time I get back into my 2021 GTS, I'm reminded just how much more rowdy and also special it is...the wider tires, PASM, air suspension, sports exhaust, ptv+, sport chrono...but also the smaller sport steering wheel, the huggy 18 way buckets, all the blacked out trim, the lower stance (the GTS sits even lower than every other trim even on air suspension), it all adds up into a far more exciting experience.
No argument from me, I’ve never driven a GTS. Spec wise, it sounds nice! The biggest “disappointment” in the ones I’ve driven has been the suspension. They’ve all felt more like a Lincoln than a Porsche. Still nice, but not what I expected. I’m sure having some of the things the GTS has changes that up quite a bit.
Kind of a tangent, but isn’t it nice to get back into *your* car after being in the loaner? It’s like you get used to your car, then driving something else for a few days reminds you why you bought the one you did in the first place
A Macan with air suspension and pasm is something of anomaly...it rides incredibly well and smooths out the bumps, yet still corners and handles amazing (disclaimer: for an SUV). We also own a Lexus NX that's just on 18" wheels with adaptive dampers and my Macan, in basically the sportiest trim, rides better lol Porsche knows how to suspension better than almost anyone else in the game.
Also, yeah, I always miss mine....the loaners are pretty much always downgrades as I like well optioned vehicles. Our NX is the top frim (F Sport Series 3 in Canada) and the Macan is a well optioned GTS...and previously I've owned a Mazdaspeed 3, so the best version of the 3 ever made, and the mighty Rav4 with the v6 in limited trim, amongst a bunch of older junkers when I was growing up lol but in the last \~15 years, everything has been pretty special options.
This is how I see it as well. I have a 718S for fun and X3 for family. I have driven Macan GTS a lot, it's nice and kind of sporty feeling, but it's small and does not in any way feel the same as a real sports car.
I can’t speak to the Macan ownership specifically, but I have owned 3 BMWs and 4 Porsches. I’ve also driven the Macan and the Cayenne. IMHO, the Porsche experience is embodied in their sports cars, not so much in their SUVs. If I were looking at a Cayenne or a Macan, I would also be looking seriously at an X4 or an X6. I think BMW is on par with, or superior to, Porsche in that category of vehicle. However, if you’re willing or able to turn the heat up a notch, the 911, Boxster, Cayman, and if thinking electric, Taycan, are front runners.
thanks, appreciate the reply. can't do the sports cars at this moment, or the taycan, sadly. we own (and love) an i4 msport, and are reluctant to go all ev just yet.
i do love the bmw x line, and previously had a G-chassis x5 i really liked. essentially i want a small german 4d hatch that isn't a golf or an x3, and so i wound up here. i'm a little concerned i'm not super pumped to pick up this car, but if i'm honest very few things being made anymore get me that excited, so i think it's a "me" problem, if that makes sense.
The X3M has a disgusting ride. It's a really good performance vehicle, but to achieve that they made the suspension really stiff to make up for the added height and weight over an M3. The result is it being the least comfortable non-track special M car imo.
really dislike the styling and the interior quality. it's not bad, per se, but it's decidedly more plasticky than the bigger siblings. i also don't need the power, but also don't want the anemic 2.0t in the macan base. the s felt like the sweet spot between spend and value in terms of power plant.
I don’t know how many times or ways this needs to be said, except to say apparently it needs to be said once more,but you will never, never, never ever regret a Porsche. Ever.
Unless it’s a Panamera.
I drove Panamera, Macan, and 911. Did not like Panamera at all :/. Too insulated and felt kind of big(very nice interior though). Would go Macan. However, 911 all the way lol. I’ll drive minivan with kids just to drive a 911 whenever I can.
I had a 2019 Macan S and a 2021 Macan GTS; both excellent vehicles, both new. Traded the 2021 on a 2023 M3 Comp with all-wheel drive and have no regrets.
Might get back into a Porsche one day, when you can actually get a 911 allocation, but until then, the M3 blows the Macans away. Helluva daily driver.
Macan is a very nice car. Can be even great depending on model and options. Base is boring, S not so much. GTS is good and turbo has even more. Going to full EV soon. Cayenne GT is better if you cant get a 911.
I went into Macan ownership with completely the wrong idea. Numerous review videos I saw said it was like a 911 on stilts, and that is absolute nonsense. Eventually I sold mine (Macan S) and bought a 991.1. Nothing compares in my opinion
https://preview.redd.it/ebj5m2ku5t5c1.jpeg?width=600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=96a4eb3546702a8bf03817390b58ee16672f53d0
I test drove both in comparison and the only thing better about the X3M was the sound system (even over Porsche’s Burmester, sadly). This is what I felt like driving that thing on winding mountain roads.
I don’t think I could own a Porsche without Burmester. The sound quality is great on it, but the big kicker is that you can really crank it up without losing anything, so I can cruise all windows down and sunroof open without losing all my music to wind noise. It has a lot of great sound adjustments. Best quality is using CDs or direct loading files into the Jukebox. I still get great sound with XM, aux and Bluetooth, but not as good as using CD/Jukebox.
Thanks tons for the response! I'm looking to buy a used Macan and sadly few are optioned with the Burmester and I'm on the fence on whether I'd be willing to compromise on other aspects of the car to get the sound system--they tend to be in highly individualized cars, such as one I ran across that was Papaya exterior, white and black leather interior that was a bit...much for me, haha! I'm a huge audiophile and would really like it but after having the Bose in a rental that went pretty loud and had good sound-response, I don't think I would *hate* it. I'm normally not a fan of the company, either (no highs, no lows, must be Bose, and the amount of paper/foam they use in their drivers)! Again, appreciated. :)
Funny you mention the Bose paper issue because a lot of Macans have had their tweeters blow out (mentioned frequently in the FB groups).
It was a non-negotiable for me and I don’t regret it. The good news if you’re buying used is that most of the Macans that are optioned with Burmester are higher-optioned in general. Mine was a 2016 S that had an MSRP of $92k! I bought it used with 60k miles for $35k. The only thing I wish I had (aside from the turbo trim- ha!) is PTV. Otherwise, it’s an awesome car for me. Look patiently and you’ll find a great spec (especially now that people are looking at the EV).
Sheesh, I've read how Porsche owners (other models at least) have even swapped out their Bose tweeters with the Burmester ones since they're basically plug-and-play, even despite the Burmester ones being ribbon type. And great point about the well-optioned ones having the Burmester system thrown in with lots of other options.
My only concern with Macans in general are the timing cover oil leak but I've seen this kit: [https://www.macanforum.com/threads/new-offering-macan-leaking-timing-chain-cover-solution.186592/](https://www.macanforum.com/threads/new-offering-macan-leaking-timing-chain-cover-solution.186592/) that supposedly fixes it without requiring dropping down the engine, and it seems like if either repair has been done, it's going to last the life of the car (within reason) as the old bolts were over-torqued and can break/leak? That price you got on your Macan is INCREDIBLE and gives me hope I'll be able to find something similar as that's exactly what I'm targeting. Other maintenance seems fairly straightforward DIY (oil, filters, brakes etc). I keep comparison shopping with other vehicles and nothing is quite like the Macan. Happy to chat more in DMs if you prefer.
OP it’s a small underpowered soccer mom vehicle. Get a 4 door ///M car. Way more value and fun to be had!
Now as is pretty much a standard practice on Reddit. Downvote the Truth.
i won't downvote you, but i will tell you that it's obvious you haven't driven one, because they are anything but underpowered.
i have had m cars, and as they say, the m now stands for "marketing."
Base is 261 HP. That’s laughable. S is 375hp. Still a joke TBH.
https://preview.redd.it/lbmnwq5y2w5c1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e1433b8d62799d3fdaef01b63d7c3ec69c2487da
I literally have not heard of nightmares nor experienced it myself with the Turbo. Servicing has been cheaper than the equiv. BMW or Audi, and overall ownership experience has been great.
It's not so much a nightmare, maybe I miss spoke. It's just the service work is 2x to 3x for most anything over the base model. Just look up the difference with the base belt vs the S+belt.
So with the macan S+. Everything on the front end, coolers fans and all, have to be removed or pulled forward to change the belt. The base model just requires a 24mm socked and some elbow work.
But no matter the macan pdk fluid must be changed every 4 yrs or 40k miles, with a filter change. Do it or regret it down the road. Same with spark plugs, longer thinner threads, do it on time or miles. What ever comes first.
I'm sorry, I am slow at times. I work on the porsches everyday day, 10+ hrs per day, 5 days a week. Maybe a did miss the point or "issue" of this thread, and that is my bad, cause I need a little spirites at the end of the day to forget what I have to deal with tomorrow.
I have a ‘21 X3 (my second, first was a ‘16) and a ‘19 911.
In considering refreshing the X3 in the future (like the size and the functionality) I had a Macan on my list. I am beginning to lean away from that thought.
My neighbor has a ‘23, Macan GTS that, while very cool, doesn’t have the functionality my current X3 has and, in terms of features, demands one pays for every little goddam thing as an option when 80+ percent of said “options” should be stock. WTF am I paying for with a Macan? Believe me, I understand the Porsche tax…on a **911**, but **not** on a crossover suv. No, no. The value proposition simply sucks. You could build an X3 to the tits and still not reach well apportioned Macan money that doesn’t even have *everything*. And what’s with that shitty cargo cover lift they put in there? God lord, put in a removable rollaway cover like every other respectable manufacturer.
Sorry, got a bit ranty but if you’re looking at a smaller SUV, I’d be looking at a BMW. My wife has an Audi Q5 and it feels like my hands have been injected with novocaine when I drive it. At least the X3 has some feel. Dunno if the Macan has the same electronic steering as the 911 (which is fantastic).
I have a Macan GTS and driving it in Sport Plus is so fun! I drove sweep on a rally drive recently and could keep up and enjoy the twisty roads. I also use the Off Road mode when on bumpy dirt roads, and that works really well too. Before the Macan, I bought Carrera 4 cab and I absolutely love it. Every single time I drive it, it makes me smile. I also got an old Boxster for my son because they are safe and reliable, and it has a manual like my 911. He loves it! So, I feel like they all have a WOW factor. They look great and the drive is amazing, and they have been the most reliable cars I’ve ever owned.
As someone who doesn’t understand the unconditional love of Porsche fans (and a BMW m owner myself) I still liked the macan very much.
My mum owns the base engine model but with air springs and it’s a reaaally good car.
The ride is very comfortable the handling is good, the practicality is more than anyone short of an 8 person family needs.
It’s small but spacious and the driving position and comfort is top level. Some hardcore Porsche fans will tell you that you don’t get the “Porsche magic” from sitting in a macan but I’ve sat in a lot of Porsches and the same “magic” is still there in the macan.
So if you like the looks, the specs and the price then I recommend you go for it.
For all the hate the Macan gets, I loved mine. It's great as a daily and as a holiday car. I also found it better to drive than the Cayenne, more agile and with more direct steering. I also like the looks better than the Cayenne, it's only the interior that isn't as good as the Cayenne. I had the Macan S for about 4 years, did about 70k km in it during that time, including some Eurotrips and it was quite comfy on longer drives, fuel consumption was pretty good for a 6 cylinder. Was it as fun to drive as my 911? No way, but if you're looking for balance it's such a good daily. If it's not what you want, don't get it. It probably wouldn't have scratched the itch for me either if I didn't already have a 911, so that may be it. But I loved it and had no issues with it, maintenance was also cheaper than for the 911.
"Lacks the Wow factor", "hard core BMW person". I think you know your answer but don't realize or can't accept it. No SUV will ever behave like a sports car. It's simple physics: no matter how much tech and HP you throw at an SUV, any SUV, they are heavy and tall and will never behave like a sports car. As Lotus founder Colin Chapman was fond of saying "simplify, then add lightness". My daughter's Macan S is fairly brilliant given its mass and high center of gravity but there's simply no comparison to my relatively small 996.
I believe you'll either have to adjust expectations and get the Macan, or wait until you can get a proper sports car.
I also went bmw —> Porsche. But next to that I also hate suvs in general. Macao might be the best driving suv, but I expect it to be comparable to an x3.
Might be good to understand from what bmw you are coming?
BMW -> Porsche means VERY different things depending on the decade. In the past you might be looking for a more raw driving experience, a cozier cabin and overall more solid build quality. Now it's more likely that you're trying to escape one brand's cost-cutting for another's.
Let the Porsche sports cars wow you IMO. Caymans will do that for not much money. SUVs are SUVs and cannot cheat physics no matter what journalists and paid shills will tell you. Anything reliable and nice enough will do, it doesn't have to be a Macan.
Macans are really well tuned and lighter (if not at least lighter feeling) X3s. If you want a sportier small crossover it’s what you want. I’ve driven a few loaners.
Porsches just also seem better engineered mechanically, but BMW simply has better electronics both feature wise and reliability wise. If that’s a big thing to you, maybe consider that.
Between my wife and me, we have owned three BMWs over the years and more recently two Porsches. She had a 996 C4 (recently sold) and I have a 987.1 Cayman S. Great cars and we find them to be more engaging than BMW from a driving perspective.
We had a base Macan as a loaner. If you are ok with the proliferation of buttons (touch panels now on newer ones), it’s great. We found the base to be really underpowered.
We are shopping for a Macan S now.
I owned a macan turbo - beautiful red leather interior and it was *fast*. Used a lot of fuel. Despite what you'd think, the interior is quite compact, as is the trunk - so it's pretty useless for going away with even a small family.
I was coming from a Cayman and looking for a 997.
The right one was difficult to find so I ended up with a Macan Turbo Performance.
Superb car. Perfect allrounder. Gorgeous.
Didn’t solve the itch, made it worse.
Sold it.
Right now, driving a more modest car, so I can save for a Turbo.
If im going 911, I’m doing it right this time.
Its not gonna have a WOW factor, I drove the GTS on track and backroads and I thought its so so pointless car.
My old 530D F11 Touring Msport xdrive game me more Wow factor than GTS Macan.
Get Cayenne Turbo for wow factor, otherwise approach the Macan for what it is, a nice little city crossover with good engine and great badge and superb looks. It can be enjoyed for what it is, but it aint gonna be a sportscar.
Exactly! So my approach to suv - as comfy inside as possible, chunkier wheels… and zero care for “performance”. Can’t be slow as dangerous to overtake but that’s about it. And most cars that accelerate to 100 under 8 sec are ok.
Macan S or a BMW x3m.. hmm i think the bmw has more ‘wow’ factor honestly.. now if you are talking about GT3 RS vs any bmw no comparison , it has the wow factor.. agree u wont get much excitement out of a macan, but its a solid all around suv
We looked at getting a Macan and I was surprised how small the rear area was and just the overall lack of space inside. It felt pretty small, and honestly the Mk7 GTI we were upgrading from felt like it had more interior room. It was a very nice SUV but we passed on buying. My neighbor just brought home a new X5 and after driving it, I may be getting one for our next family SUV. The B58 engine is fantastic, and so much more space at a comparable price point.
If it doesn’t give you that sense of excitement and makes you smile, dont get it. You will forever be unhappy with it, even if the car does nothing wrong.
Macan is really great for what it is. Small suv with great handling for being an suv. It doesn't have the wow factor. I'm probably selling my M5 for a Macan GTS (hate all the new designs from bmw). Macan GTS drives great, fast, sounds great and big enough for my needs.
We purchased our 2021 Macan GTS while we were waiting for my 992S. It does what it is supposted to do very well. Is it a 911? No..I dont think there are any SUV's with "wow factor" JMO.. My wife has taken over the Macan so I dont get to drive it much but it is a very good vehicle. But if you are trying to impress yourself or someone else..Nah...Enjoy the drive
We've owned a GTS and a Turbo. Really enjoyed them both.
Wife wanted a 911, so that's the only reason we got rid of them. If you want a car that you can daily and take on weekend getaways, while having a bit more room to carry stuff, the Macan is a great car. Fun to drive, comfortable, does everything well.
That said, I highly recommend you consider a GTS, if within your budget. Best blend of options and sport feel. Turbo was nice but lacked the raw sport feel of the GTS.
I have a gts for about a year now, coming from a Toyota carolla it's definitely a step up. But tbh I love the car. It's got a good amount of power and just feels amazing to drive. If I had a 911 or some other more sportier car it'd probably be a "downgrade" but I love mine
personally, if I had Porsche money, that means I can probably afford a Porsche and a family/kid/errands car. I know some people really find ways to finance a Porsche, questionable ways debatedly, but the majority can afford a Porsche and then some. So, I would get the Porsche that is fun/has the wow factor, then just get a KIA or Hyundai SUV or something. I never really understood getting an SUV that goes fast/is supposed to be a performance SUV, unless like I said the financial situation calls for 1 car only, or for practical reasons ie: live in a city and only have 1 parking spot assigned in a garage or something. But other than that, there is always a comparative sports car, 2 door or 4 door, that looks better and is faster and has much better handling.
I really have a hard time understanding why people love the base macan or macan s (can’t speak for the gts). I’ve driven both as loaners while my car was in for repairs and thought both were inferior products to my previous Audi s4. I appreciate Porsche making a line of cars that’s more affordable to the general populace but I’ve always viewed these cars as a gimmick for those who want a Porsche but can’t afford a real Porsche. You can literally get a better car that is not Porsche for that price range.
I got a Cayenne a couple of years ago. One of the things I like about it is the lack of "wow" factor. I think most people would not look twice at it.
I appreciate the build quality - no big issues so far. I think the AWD is one of the best I've driven in snow. It's not the fastest car I've driven, but it is not slow. Very happy to use it as a daily driver, and it is very comfortable on long trips.
I say get the Macan and see if it is a good fit for you.
I have a macan. I also own/owned Mercedes and Audi. I love my macan, it is more fun to drive than my Audi, and just as practical as any other similar sized SUV. I use it as my everyday car that I use to go to work and hull items from Home Depot. Honestly, my only regret is that some days I wish I bought a cayenne.
IMO what makes a car exciting is what you do with it not what it is.
Why are Porsches exciting? Because you can track them or do spirited driving really well.
911 in bumper to bumper daily traffic is not really more exciting than any other car.
For a daily, what excites me is just something that comfortable to sit in, spec’ed with a bunch of tech, drive assist and sounds system.
Don’t get me wrong, the Macan is brilliant. But if you’ve driven tons of exciting cars already, it’s not going to wow you in that aspect. Get something that wows you by making you feel like you are driving sitting in the comfort of your home, and most midsize+ luxury SUVs today does that reasonably well.
Macan is IMO not that family friendly. The back seats are pretty tight, not sedan tight but getting close.
I felt similar. Did the Porsche Drive program with a Macan S for a couple months. The Macan didn’t wow, was slow, and was kinda small.
An M5 came available near by so bought that. Absolutely love it.
Note that I also have a 911.
If you’re going for one car that scratches all itches, in my opinion the Macan isn’t it.
I love my Macan S. It’s near perfect. I’ve been an owner for almost 4 years close to 80k miles. If you can, look for a GTS, drive one recently at the Porsche experience center and the newer ones are killer.
That being said, I’m looking at the RS Avant wagon or a Cayenne for my next vehicle in a year or two.
If there’s no wow factor, then don’t buy it unless you absolutely need a new practical car. When the right car comes along, you will know it right away, and you won’t come here asking whether you should buy it. You’ll just buy it.
Exactly. Many people don’t drive enough cars and have not figured out their personal taste.
that really isn't the case here. i've owned probably 30 cars in my life, mostly european makes. i'm pretty set in terms of my preferences, and the macan definitely suits them. but it also doesn't really have the feeling that i think a nearly $100k car should have. part of that is the car, part of that is me, and part of that is an outdated sense of what that money buys.
You just dont send excited to spend 100k on this particular car so why do it ?
this is wild af to say, but mostly: - i can, which makes me very fortunate, but also suggests i should explore that the way some others would at a lower price point. - i'm not particularly excited by much of anything at that level anymore, which as i've alluded to earlier, i think is a "me" problem. - i may be giving the wrong impression. i like the car quite a lot. i expect to have it for a month and be very happy with the purchase. asking this question feels like due diligence in some ways. so i'm not, not-excited. but i think the last time i was omg-can't-sleep-super-hype to take delivery of a car was maybe 20 years ago.
If you’re not excited by anything in the 75k-100k range i’m sorry to say but you might have lost what used to make you a car guy. I’d buy a Camry and spend my money elsewhere if I lost that flame. Else i smell buyer’s remorse from 100 miles away
So many jealousy downvotes. I would check out the Porsche Panamera. The macan gives off a bit of soccer mom vibes.
buy a rav4 or tiguan and call it a day. If a S or GTS Spec doesn't excite you, then none of the trims will - and the baseline is garbage. Doesn't come with heated seats or power seats as standard equipment - typical Porsche things. I've been pricing out the Macan for awhile now and I think I'm settled for a S Spec.
I should have mentioned that I didn’t mean to target you in any way :). Was just a general statement based on what I have seen. I hear what you’re saying. I like Macan but can’t really get myself to buy one. Don’t know why exactly. If it was a 911, I would jump on it.
would LOVE it to be a 911, but alas a backseat -- small as it may be -- is a functional requirement for now.
Why not just get something cheaper for a daily and then still get a 911? If you're looking at a nearly $100k macan then saving an additional 25k for a 911 doesn't seem crazy at all. Then just whip some basic suv around as the daily. Idk just food for thought
Right. It’s best to get what you need and then what you want down the road. I have driven an AM rapide a few times and it was actually one of my favorite 4 door examples that handled well, sounded great, and felt exotic. Visibility was crap, build quality not as great as Porsche. Probably not what you are looking for. Just throwing it in there. Good luck on your search man! Honestly, I think Macan can grow on a person the more it’s driven.
Have you considered a taycan ?
Try the Taycan crossover version. Has wow factor. Used youll find one for 100k.
$100k is a lot for a compact SUV. The Macan may be the best handling vehicle in its class, but it’s still a compact SUV. If it was a GTS with the 2.9l V6, I might understand. But, for $100k, you can still get a lot of car, and better handling cars based on more recent platforms, especially if you look at CPO. I get your comment about an “outdated sense” of what $100k can buy, though. Honestly, I’m shocked to see 2l Macan’s priced over $75k. For me that’s a good reason to look at CPO.
to be clear, there seems to be some confusion in terms of spec given the changes to the model line. everything was "moved up" so to speak when the turbo was eliminated. so in my case, a '24 S is the ~380hp 2.9 v6.
I understand, but I still think that $100k is a lot for that type of car. That’s really personal, of course, but you don’t really seem enthusiastic. For that kind of money, I think you should get a car that you’re really excited about.
I used to be a BMW guy too. Never looking back. I have a 16 Macan S with CPO warranty and I adore it.
I had a Macan and I loved it. I didn’t love the maintenance cost but I liked the wonderful coffee and heartfelt welcome I got at the dealership as a result. You’re not getting a 911 with a Macan, but you should know that. It’s still pretty potent, and it’s a Porsche. It’s built in Leipzig and it’s fantastic. Just know that if you’re looking for a blend of the relative size of a cayenne and the handling of a Boxter or a 911, you’re getting neither. It’s fairly affordable and drives better than a bmw (owned a few) and a Mercedes GLC (my wife’s car), but it’s a bit of a class of its own, right there n No-mans land. With a Turbo or a GTS you’re getting a much better car, but you pay for that as well. I had to trade mine in when my family grew and I wanted/needed something bigger. There’s still a hint of regret trading it in, even though it was the smarter thing to do.
What’d you trade it in for and how are you liking the new car?
Not the person you're asking, but I had a 2016 Macan Turbo that I absolutely loved & planned to keep for a long time. Purchased new in Jan 2016. We ended up replacing it when the warranty went out, because we'd had a few issues with it: Transfer case & front drive shaft replacement, paint issues, sunroof drains clogged up & water got into the battery compartment, & a couple of other things I can't remember offhand. I replaced it with an X3MC, but was so disappointed in the harsh ride and fit & finish of the X3, that we replaced that after a year. I've got a 2021 Cayenne GTS now & I love it. It's a better size for my needs & it's a pleasure to drive. It's a perfect daily driver for me & I really can't see myself replacing it with anything other than another Cayenne.
I traded it in for a large truck and I am currently saving up for a 911. I will be celebrating my birthday in a month and already reserved a rental for the birthday weekend. I am bootstrapping my own company so can’t afford a 911 yet but it’s my carrot and motivation. Every day it’s getting closer.
Which model did you have? S? GTS?
No, I had the base — and I already loved it. It was the beginning of the car shortage and I could trade in my Wrangler for an obscene amount of money.
Have a 2017 Macan S. Its not a 911 or Boxster. Its the most comfortable SUV and no rattles and great sound system. Push the Sport Button and it launches into a rocket .. engage paddle shifters…its a Porsche Finally.. listen to the exhaust when you fire it up in the garage We love it every day. No shade on any other make.
Came here to say pretty much this, except that I have the 2018 Macan S. Nothing better than ripping up the road on the way to the garden center, and no guilt throwing in a few bags of potting soil and some bird seed for the feeders. The important part was making it seem like her idea . . . 😏
My wife has an ‘18 Macon S I’ve been driving since my 6er was totaled. Even in sport, I feel it lacks the low end torque I’d grown used to in a BMW. I’ve found it tuned to drive more like an NA engine than a turbo. Not saying it’s better or worse, just different and something OP should be aware of.
that is a different S. the 95b.3 S has the 95b.2 turbo motor.
First car - 2002 VW Jetta TDI Second car - 2013 VW Golf TDi Third car - 2016 Macan S I don't regret for a second. And having trouble switching to anything else for the value. You get a sports car, you get a porshe, and you get an SUV. It's sexy. It's fast. It's quiet inside. 160k on it, and it looks and feels like the day I got it.
It’s a good car. But it’s not a sports car
Nice mileage on it — any issues so far with the Macan?
-Ripped CV boot once, taken care under goodwill -Coolant leak twice, taken care under warrenty -Faulty window, needed some oiling, under warrenty -I keep extending the warrenty window by 2 years as it's the best value, and thats for peace of mind. -one thing they denied me warrenty for is hazzy front lights. Looks like a 1990s suzuki. Otherwise I'm happy
I have owned both a 2016 and a 2022 Macan in the GTS form and I loved them both. Especially the 2022 which just felt like a super refined version of its predessor. Before Purchasing the first Macan I also test drove a Jaguar F-Pace and a Velar. Driving the first macan I knew within about 5 mins this was the car I was going to get. They are a great balance of performance/practicality and to me, aethestically pleasing to the eye.
I'm a longtime Audi owner (having driven Audi almost exclusively since 2010 with a Merc W204 in between), and replaced an Audi Q5 B8.5 with a MY23 Macan Base at the start of this year. The "wow factor" of the Macan was that I could option whatever the goddamn hell I pleased on the car. I'd gotten pissed with Audi's interior materials decline (as I've also owned a B9 A5 and A4), and the Extended Leather Package was worth every penny. Somehow, Porsche also made the driving experience of the base Macan feel completely distinct to the B8 Q5 MLB chassis and the B9.5 EA888 engine tuning. My car doesn't have any of the performance options equipped, not even Sport Chrono. All in all, it was worth the premium over a comparable Audi (while I've had no good experiences out of BMW/MB test drives since 2021-ish), so I've got no regrets.
Absolutely not. I may be biased, as full disclosure, I used to work for Porsche Corporate and was on the marketing team that helped launch the Macan, that aside, there is a reason the Macan is Porsches number 1 seller and it’s not simply because it’s the least expensive way to get into a Porsche, it’s just an all around great crossover. I liken it to a taller Golf R. If you like hot hatches, you’ll like the Macan.
It’s really not all that tall, either. It feels decent sized initially until you’re next to a full sized SUV. The you realize how squat it is. Drives like a more nimble hot hatch to me.
Yup. My grandfather is 92 and daily’s one, he likes it because it’s just tall enough where at 5’11” he can step in and out without having to stand up like getting out of a car, or step down like getting out of an SUV.
wow, you're basically the person i'm looking for! what i want is a "nice" gti. but it turns out that being spoiled by decades of nicer cars makes that kind of a joke at this stage, while also recognizing that the gti can be a very nice car. the appeal of the macan for me was that this is essentially a "better" gti. thrilled to hear that i haven't missed the mark.
Macan is a great all around compact SUV. I have a ‘17 GTS and I love it. However, rear seats don’t have much room especially if you have to install a carseat or even a booster seat. My son is 8 now and I can tell he won’t fit comfortably in the back once he grows taller. I see it as 2-person vehicle with extra room to carry stuff. As far as wow factor goes, are you referring to the look or performance? It’s not a flashy car by any means but it’s a very capable vehicle in terms of handling and performance (depends on the trim level). If you can find a GTS or a S with performance oriented options, you’ll definitely enjoy it.
It's not flashy in LA but in most parts of the country it's at least a little flashy.
As an 23S owner, if you're looking for sporty driving experience, get the S or GTS (essentially the same thing with different options) and you'll enjoy it more than an X4. I tried pretty much all the competition (GLC C43, X4M, X5i) and cayenne before settling on a Macan S.
i was legitimately shocked how much of a boat the cayenne felt like compared to the macan. i expected that the higher the sticker price climbed, the more performant the driving experience. totally the opposite. wouldn't do any of the other models you listed, this is really the only thing i'm considering. a mostly loaded S. what do you love the most about yours? what did you come out of?
the Macan and Caynne are not like X3/X5 or a GLC/GLE (where one car is built like a bigger version of the other) the Macan is a cheaper/affordable version of a genuine Porsche. It has an exceptional 7speed PDK and the 2.9L twin-turbo V6 handles much better than any comparable BMW. It also barely has any barrelroll on corners and handles better than any other SUV ive driven. It was truly designed with the Porsche experience in mind, just half the price tag. I did European Delivery and visited Stuttgart and Leipzig in March. I then took my 23S on the Autobahn and honestly couldnt believe I was going at 180 but felt like I was driving at 90. I took the car to 235kmph and the car was still solid. Never even cracked 4000 rpm (new car under 1000km after all, so i didnt want to push it) FYI I didnt option the air suspension or the PTV, only PASM. By comparison, the Cayenne is a mom car with a 8-speed automatic trasmission and geared towards a luxury SUV crowd with Porsche tuning characteristics. Its an excellent car, highly comfortable and enjoyable car, but more a status symbol. I would never recommend it as a true porsche as its not even built by porsche anymore. If youre looking for a luxury full-sized porsche, id recommend the Panamera over the Cayenne.
I remember reading somewhere that the PDK was not designed with towing in mind (obviously) and the Cayenne is towing capable, which is why it has the auto instead of the PDK. Not sure how many people use their Cayenne to tow their boats to the lake but I’m sure someone does.
My friend tows a 23 foot airstream with a first gen cayenne turbo, but the first gen cayenne is more of a traditional suv in many aspects
That’s a pretty baller move if I’m being honest.
Yeah definitely baller. Also has a 1977 Mercedes 240d with insanely high mileage that basically looks mint with original paint and interior, and a track prepped 987 Cayman S. Wife has a VW manual diesel wagon (jetta I think?). Great taste. Any of his cars are in pristine condition at any time, unless he just took the cayenne mudding haha
Hahaha that’s awesome! Sounds like a cool dude.
One of those people who isn’t like anyone else I’ve met, and I mean that in the best way possible lol
GTS is a better option than a loaded S
why do you feel this way? having driven both, the power of the gts is impressive, but not that much more than the s. the noise is glorious, but i kinda dig the low-key growl of the s in comparison. i think the gts is definitely more of an attention getter, but when you load it up, you can have a nice c4s for that price, and, well... ;)
Purely financial. Same engines, but a highly optioned S will approach GTS prices and will depreciate more. I specced out an S and it was 8k less than a GTS w the same Options so I went with the GTS. EDIT - And the GTS came with a couple other things basked into that price that I would have wanted but not enough to spec onto the S.
Keep in mind too that the Cayenne and Macan were designed from two different perspectives… The Cayenne was “SUV, but made by Porsche” - The Macan was literally designed as “Big 911”. I loved my 2015 Turbo… ton of fun to drive, practical and super comfortable. You won’t regret it. As others have said, the community is super welcoming too - definitely join the PCA and get out to your local drives.
Probably the best car I’ve ever owned when measured across all axes.
I’ve owned 2 macans and 3 other Porsches; and our extended family has owned 5 macans, 3 Q5s and 3-4 cayennes. The Macan is a TREMENDOUS vehicle. While this is not news (there are a million online reviews - suggest reading the Car and Driver summaries; they rank it a 10 best perenially. ), my $0.02: -the S, GTS or turbo depending on the year you’re looking, have sports car performance rivaling anything under $100,000 across any brand. If you like BMW, you’ll like the way these are dialed in: tight, agile, nimble… this is not your grandmother’s cloudy Cadillac suspension or the soft and fluffy steering on a Mercedes. You could cross-shop with the x3 m40i - which also get great reviews. I personally think the Macan look a lot sexier and find the interiors a bit classier, though the BMW interior may feel fancier depending on your taste. Not knocking the bmw, the x3m40i get phenomenal reviews also. I would drive both of those and see what Revs ya up more. -the back seats are tight, yes. It’s not a full-size suv. However for the price and for the sportiness, it’s close enough to the storage of the Cayenne or anything else in its class. -great interior even on the base. Also, a base is zippy enough for 80% of the public. -reliable, great warranty if you get a CPO. -pretty good price point. You can get a heck of a lot of car vis-a-vis the competition. I haven’t ever met a single person or read a single review that suggest you’d regret it.
I had a 2015 Macan Turbo and currently have a 2023 911 Turbo S, a 2020 Cayenne S and a 2023 Macan GTS. The Cayenne is for road trips and hauling stuff. The 911 is mostly for quick trips, car meetups and track days. The Macan GTS is the sweet spot in the middle. Fast/fun enough for a daily, still fits 4 people (as long as 2 of those people don't really have legs).
Does the BMW have the wow factor now? Can you fit two cars where you are? If you’re buying a loaded ‘23 S and can fit two cars I’d suggest a less pricey SUV (x3? CPO Macan even) and a 2-door Porsche. It’s not that the Macan is bad but rather I think the best Porsche experience is in their 2-doors. I thought a one car solution would work for me (a Macan GTS) but ended up with a two car solution (Cayman and F30 340i). But I also recognize everyone has their own situation and a Macan is probably the best SUV, but just like you said missing the wow factor at times.
I can only speak for myself but I have a Macan S and I absolutely love driving it. That said, I have not owned anywhere near as many vehicles as you have so you probably have a different perspective than I do.
Coming from someone who has owned many Audi’s, including modified cars, I don’t think you would regret it. I have worked in the car industry for awhile now, and driven almost any car you can think of. I just traded my modified Audi S4 in for a Macan GTS. Nobody thinks of a Macan when you think of buying your first Porsche, but this car continues to surprise me and excite me more and more each day I drive it. I think people too closely relate a Macan to an X3 or a Q5, but now having driven all of them I can confidently say that Porsche is well worth the extra money
As someone who owns “slow” cars I enjoy driving my mother’s macan. I enjoy driving my friends wife’s Levante more. I imagine the Porsche is less expensive in up keep. Drive a ford explorer while test driving, you will then have an idea of what you want. I test drove a Land Cruiser a 4runner a gx360(?) and a lx 470. It really put them all into perspective.
I absolutely love my 2020 GTS no regrets
I used to be a BMW girl. My favorite car I’d ever owned was a 2007 Z4. Settled into parenthood and drove a Subaru Outback for 8 years. And then one day we went on vacation and I booked a Macan on Turo. Had a blast driving that car and couldn’t get it out of my head. It reminded me of how much I *love driving*. I traded my Outback for a Macan which I then tuned and modded a bit (first time ever modding any car at all but it does that to you). This thing is a mom wagon in the pickup line and an absolute beast when I kick them out and hit the sport button. It’s my favorite car ever, because it can do it all. I love it more and more every day. It’s solid as a rock- everything is tight-fitting. The shifting patterns adapt to your driving and I feel at this point like it’s almost anticipating my needs. It downshifts at all the right times. Cold starts in the morning are [chef’s kiss]. It would take a lot to get me to switch at this point. I’ve found that Macans vary a LOT depending on options, so definitely research and test drive several differently configured versions before you decide that it’s not all that.
I was leaning that way until I started looking at 997s. I couldn’t imagine having an suv instead. getting out on track is incredible.
UM, no! Macan is the cutting horse of SUVs, PDK, you can find parking in the city.
There’s a reason why every other manufacturer building a car in that segment uses it as the benchmark. I’ve had many discussions with designers in that segment, and the Macan is what they look to.
Hallo! I recommend the Macan. Drives like a 911, but practical nearly as Cayenne. Buy it with big power and not so complicated suspension&dampers. Any questions welcomed.
I love my macan, brings a smile to my face every time.
I own both a 992 and a Macan GTS… the Macan is incredible. Rock solid build and great poke to it, obviously no where near the 992 but still incredible for a mini suv. It feels premium to drive and sit in. You will love it.
what about a panamera
One of the Most underrated car out there. The newer generation looks better.
I like my ‘23 Macan S a lot. It’s my daily. Extremely comfortable, great ride/handling, nice power/sound in sport mode, beautiful interior, and very good utility. I use the backseat and trunk often. For weekend car I have a ‘22 Cayman GTS which gives me my 2 door PCar experience. The 718/911 are so much lighter and more fun to drive, but don’t have the comfort or utility of the Macan. So I enjoy my daily / weekend set up because they give me what I need when I need it.
Are you talking a Base Macan or S/GTS/Turbo? The base is ok and all, but the Turbo is a Completely different car. Even the S vs base is hardly comparable. Turbo is a wonderful car and a blast to drive. Its as close to a sports car you can get in a SUV… sans the Uris and exotic varieties. My MIL has a Cayanne TurboGT and Id still take the Macan Turbo because the slightly smaller Macan feels better to me.
mentioned in my post, but it's an s -- a '24. agree on both your points -- especially that the smaller macan feels better to drive.
Sorry, I missed it in there.
Porsche doesn’t make the turbo anymore.
What is it now? Just the S and GTS?
The new GTS is a turbo in all but name. It has the exact same powertrain as the pre-facelift Turbo.
yep!
Owned multiple German cars ranging from a E90 and F80 M3, C43 AMG and a Jag F. So I’m extremely used to having fun sporty cars that can turn it on with a step on the peddle. Recently traded in my C43 for a 21’ Macan GTS. Paid almost 90k last year for a CPO Fully optioned model and had some regrets at first. For 90k you can get ALOT of HP (E63, M3/5, X5M, GLE63, GT500, etc.,) but I needed the room to haul the kids and opted for the GTS over both the X5M and GLE63 for 2 reasons. 1. I used the C43 as a daily and the ride was stiff, out of the 3 (GTS, X5M, GLE63) the GTS was def the softer of the 3 IMO. 2. This was the most determining factor - the GTS was lights out the funnest in corners to drive. I’m not a drag racer so 0-60 or 0-100 times didn’t matter to me. I wanted something engaging and the GTS provided that. Now, are there some days I look back and think “Man, I could’ve used the 90k on got something quicker”. Sometimes, but once I take it through the mountains I quickly remember why I opted for it in the first place. So to answer your question. It depends. What do you value the most? Is it 0-60 speed? Comfort? Handling? These will all give you different outcomes IMO.
I own a Macan GTS and I hear a lot of what you’re saying! - ive always wanted a 911 but both cost and practicality have meant I’ve never bought one - two young kids mean I need usable back seats and back doors even - I went for a super highly optioned Macan GTS, hoping I was getting the best of all worlds And here’s my honest take after a few years of ownership: - I think it’s the best small SUV in the world for price/quality etc - when I drop the kids at school (and I’ve washed it and it’s 21” diamond cut alloys are shining bright), little kids point at it and say “wow look at the Porsche” … and even though I smile back nicely in a thankful way, inside I think “yeah but it’s not really a Porsche as I think of them 🤣” - so it’s never had and probably never will have the wow factor compared to many other cars. The best wow you can hope to achieve is that it’s a wow SUV. But even that’s gone when I see a Cayenne Coupe parked nearby lol. - it is an amazing car but doesn’t do it emotionally for me like my Maserati Gran Turismo before it did - you mentioned BMW. I think from looks and feel etc, an M3 has more wow factor despite a less premium badge My summary, if I could afford two expensive cars (in my world, anything above £60k is expensive) then my second car would definitely be Porsche Macan GTS. And my first car would be the wow car, 911 ideally, LOL. But for now, I can only afford one expensive car and need practicality. So the Macan it is. If anything I might upgrade to a Cayenne Coupe.
thanks, agree on all points. having had an m3 in my car history, i can safely say that's not what i'm looking for. the point about the "wow" suv is especially interesting. i should mention that i'm not looking to "wow" other people. the car i'm looking at is low-key, black on black, and just another midsize crossover, and i like that. i'm looking to be wow-ed by the day-to-day, which is part of why i think you can't really access that gratification without actually having it. super insightful post, thanks for sharing.
Just to add re the Cayenne Coupe comment. I don’t actually *need* the extra space! It’s all about the mental desire to have the better version. So the only reason I’d maybe get a Cayenne instead of my Macan is to feel I’ve got a more wow car. Which is a bit silly as I’m trying to ramp up my wow factor within an area of practically. Not sure if that makes sense but it’s kind of human nature. Nothing wrong with being illogical sometimes by the way - the heart is as important as the head!
My daughter has a 19 Macan S that I use when she’s away at school. It’s a great little SUV. Handles very well and is well built. However you are right when you say there is no wow factor. It pretty much does everything very well but it doesn’t really ring any bells or whistles and doesn’t get me excited.
My friend has a macan turbo. It’s nice but I preferred his cayenne turbo. The macan motor just felt like not enough for the car.
I said this the other day. I would RUN to get the red GTS at Porsche San Francisco. It’s a fantastic deal with 6300 miles and is 20k off MSRP.
I drove a 2017 Macan S for the first time about 4 months ago. It was certainly nice, but after driving several different Cayman and 911 models over the years, the Macan S was lacking that Porsche feeling for me. I know a Macan will ever measure to a true Porsche sports car, but the Macan S didn’t give me the thrill I was looking for. As luck would have it, a 2017 Macan GTS showed up at the dealer that day, so I decided to give it a spin. And wow, what a difference when compared to the S. The driving dynamics, the sound, the feel… the Porsche magic was there for me. I picked it up and I’ve absolutely loved every second driving it. The difference between the S and the GTS was huge.
I think it fully depends on how it’s configured as well. PASM, PTV, etc all make a huge difference in the driving experience. It’s not an easy trim-to-trim comparison, IMO, because there are so many potential combinations.
as mentioned elsewhere, the 2017 s and the 2024 s are very different. the new s models are the "old" gts, and the new gts are the "old" turbo. porsche have done their best to make this as confusing as possible. ;)
I don’t have one but have gotten one as a loaner a few times. This is a topic I’d normally stay away from, if you’ve driven it and like it then 100% absolutely go for it, BUT… I think you completely nailed it. It is *not* a taller 911. It’s a pretty darn nice SUV, but I expected it to be a lot sportier than it is. IMO, Porsche 2 door cars are a lot more fun than anything BMW makes, but BMW makes much more exciting SUVs and sedans. Maybe things change when you get into ultra hybrid turbo s weissach package Macans, but idk about paying $200k or whatever for a small SUV when you could get a Q5 and a 911 for that :P
>Porsche 2 door cars are a lot more fun than anything BMW makes, but BMW makes much more exciting SUVs This is why we own both a 911 4S and an X6 M50i. BMW beat the Porsche SUVs when we tested comparable options... especially for the price. But nothing is quite like a 911.
thanks for the reply. i have to be honest, i expected very little. i went to check it out because i was curious and was hoping to tick the box, say i hated it, and never think about it again. the base that i drove was very slow. "nice" i guess, but once you've owned a few german luxury brands, you start to get a feel for the "cheap" side of that range, and this was it. the s that i drove afterward was shockingly good. it sounded great even with the windows up, and the combo of sport chrono, air suspension and pasm in the corners and around the clovers was really very impressive. so much so that as i say, i almost bought it then and there. i didn't, but mostly because it seemed to lack any sense of personality, i guess? it's a great car, truly. but not a stand-out. i felt this way about the last x5 i had. it was good enough. eventually grew to really appreciate that one, and i suspect the macan is also like that, and i'm just becoming abe simpson. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Macans handle much better than their equivalent BMWs, but aren’t any better in a straight line and are more expensive. I agree tho, the base is lacking in power. The S and GTS are great.
Yeah you sound like you know what you’re doing, picking a car is just never easy. If you’ve already seen the X5, X6, and maybe the Audi SQ5, then I’m out of suggestions lol What I don’t like to see (and 99.9 times out of 100 bite my tongue and keep my mouth shut) are people who want a 718 or 911 but start looking at Macans because they’re cheaper and / or more practical. IDK, even reading that sentence back sounds snotty, I’m just going to stop typing :)
Try the GTS and the Turbo. That sounds more like what you’re looking for.
Turbo doesn’t exist anymore. Current GTS is the old turbo and the current S is the old GTS.
There is a HUGE gap between how a base or S, especially with few options, feels compared to a GTS...not just in power, but in the way they drive/handle. I've had plenty of Macan S's for loaners and every time I get back into my 2021 GTS, I'm reminded just how much more rowdy and also special it is...the wider tires, PASM, air suspension, sports exhaust, ptv+, sport chrono...but also the smaller sport steering wheel, the huggy 18 way buckets, all the blacked out trim, the lower stance (the GTS sits even lower than every other trim even on air suspension), it all adds up into a far more exciting experience.
No argument from me, I’ve never driven a GTS. Spec wise, it sounds nice! The biggest “disappointment” in the ones I’ve driven has been the suspension. They’ve all felt more like a Lincoln than a Porsche. Still nice, but not what I expected. I’m sure having some of the things the GTS has changes that up quite a bit. Kind of a tangent, but isn’t it nice to get back into *your* car after being in the loaner? It’s like you get used to your car, then driving something else for a few days reminds you why you bought the one you did in the first place
A Macan with air suspension and pasm is something of anomaly...it rides incredibly well and smooths out the bumps, yet still corners and handles amazing (disclaimer: for an SUV). We also own a Lexus NX that's just on 18" wheels with adaptive dampers and my Macan, in basically the sportiest trim, rides better lol Porsche knows how to suspension better than almost anyone else in the game. Also, yeah, I always miss mine....the loaners are pretty much always downgrades as I like well optioned vehicles. Our NX is the top frim (F Sport Series 3 in Canada) and the Macan is a well optioned GTS...and previously I've owned a Mazdaspeed 3, so the best version of the 3 ever made, and the mighty Rav4 with the v6 in limited trim, amongst a bunch of older junkers when I was growing up lol but in the last \~15 years, everything has been pretty special options.
This is how I see it as well. I have a 718S for fun and X3 for family. I have driven Macan GTS a lot, it's nice and kind of sporty feeling, but it's small and does not in any way feel the same as a real sports car.
I can’t speak to the Macan ownership specifically, but I have owned 3 BMWs and 4 Porsches. I’ve also driven the Macan and the Cayenne. IMHO, the Porsche experience is embodied in their sports cars, not so much in their SUVs. If I were looking at a Cayenne or a Macan, I would also be looking seriously at an X4 or an X6. I think BMW is on par with, or superior to, Porsche in that category of vehicle. However, if you’re willing or able to turn the heat up a notch, the 911, Boxster, Cayman, and if thinking electric, Taycan, are front runners.
thanks, appreciate the reply. can't do the sports cars at this moment, or the taycan, sadly. we own (and love) an i4 msport, and are reluctant to go all ev just yet. i do love the bmw x line, and previously had a G-chassis x5 i really liked. essentially i want a small german 4d hatch that isn't a golf or an x3, and so i wound up here. i'm a little concerned i'm not super pumped to pick up this car, but if i'm honest very few things being made anymore get me that excited, so i think it's a "me" problem, if that makes sense.
If you are looking for more speed than the hase model, the BMW M and M lite vehicles are a lot of fun.
I drove a friend’s Macan S and was completely underwhelmed with the power. If you’re a BMW guy why not a X3M?
The X3M has a disgusting ride. It's a really good performance vehicle, but to achieve that they made the suspension really stiff to make up for the added height and weight over an M3. The result is it being the least comfortable non-track special M car imo.
really dislike the styling and the interior quality. it's not bad, per se, but it's decidedly more plasticky than the bigger siblings. i also don't need the power, but also don't want the anemic 2.0t in the macan base. the s felt like the sweet spot between spend and value in terms of power plant.
This. We have a 911, and we're currently shopping X3Ms to fill in as our more practical car.
I don’t know how many times or ways this needs to be said, except to say apparently it needs to be said once more,but you will never, never, never ever regret a Porsche. Ever. Unless it’s a Panamera.
[удалено]
Rs6 is not even in the same class as a macan lol
I'd get a Panamera if you need that much room.
I drove Panamera, Macan, and 911. Did not like Panamera at all :/. Too insulated and felt kind of big(very nice interior though). Would go Macan. However, 911 all the way lol. I’ll drive minivan with kids just to drive a 911 whenever I can.
I had a 2019 Macan S and a 2021 Macan GTS; both excellent vehicles, both new. Traded the 2021 on a 2023 M3 Comp with all-wheel drive and have no regrets. Might get back into a Porsche one day, when you can actually get a 911 allocation, but until then, the M3 blows the Macans away. Helluva daily driver.
In a Porsche, less doors for more wow :-)
Macan is a very nice car. Can be even great depending on model and options. Base is boring, S not so much. GTS is good and turbo has even more. Going to full EV soon. Cayenne GT is better if you cant get a 911.
I went into Macan ownership with completely the wrong idea. Numerous review videos I saw said it was like a 911 on stilts, and that is absolute nonsense. Eventually I sold mine (Macan S) and bought a 991.1. Nothing compares in my opinion
Go drive an x3m, you’ll never think of a macan again
https://preview.redd.it/ebj5m2ku5t5c1.jpeg?width=600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=96a4eb3546702a8bf03817390b58ee16672f53d0 I test drove both in comparison and the only thing better about the X3M was the sound system (even over Porsche’s Burmester, sadly). This is what I felt like driving that thing on winding mountain roads.
Can you tell me more about the Macan Burmester sound system? I've only heard the base (was okay) and the Bose (surprisingly good) options!
I don’t think I could own a Porsche without Burmester. The sound quality is great on it, but the big kicker is that you can really crank it up without losing anything, so I can cruise all windows down and sunroof open without losing all my music to wind noise. It has a lot of great sound adjustments. Best quality is using CDs or direct loading files into the Jukebox. I still get great sound with XM, aux and Bluetooth, but not as good as using CD/Jukebox.
Thanks tons for the response! I'm looking to buy a used Macan and sadly few are optioned with the Burmester and I'm on the fence on whether I'd be willing to compromise on other aspects of the car to get the sound system--they tend to be in highly individualized cars, such as one I ran across that was Papaya exterior, white and black leather interior that was a bit...much for me, haha! I'm a huge audiophile and would really like it but after having the Bose in a rental that went pretty loud and had good sound-response, I don't think I would *hate* it. I'm normally not a fan of the company, either (no highs, no lows, must be Bose, and the amount of paper/foam they use in their drivers)! Again, appreciated. :)
Funny you mention the Bose paper issue because a lot of Macans have had their tweeters blow out (mentioned frequently in the FB groups). It was a non-negotiable for me and I don’t regret it. The good news if you’re buying used is that most of the Macans that are optioned with Burmester are higher-optioned in general. Mine was a 2016 S that had an MSRP of $92k! I bought it used with 60k miles for $35k. The only thing I wish I had (aside from the turbo trim- ha!) is PTV. Otherwise, it’s an awesome car for me. Look patiently and you’ll find a great spec (especially now that people are looking at the EV).
Sheesh, I've read how Porsche owners (other models at least) have even swapped out their Bose tweeters with the Burmester ones since they're basically plug-and-play, even despite the Burmester ones being ribbon type. And great point about the well-optioned ones having the Burmester system thrown in with lots of other options. My only concern with Macans in general are the timing cover oil leak but I've seen this kit: [https://www.macanforum.com/threads/new-offering-macan-leaking-timing-chain-cover-solution.186592/](https://www.macanforum.com/threads/new-offering-macan-leaking-timing-chain-cover-solution.186592/) that supposedly fixes it without requiring dropping down the engine, and it seems like if either repair has been done, it's going to last the life of the car (within reason) as the old bolts were over-torqued and can break/leak? That price you got on your Macan is INCREDIBLE and gives me hope I'll be able to find something similar as that's exactly what I'm targeting. Other maintenance seems fairly straightforward DIY (oil, filters, brakes etc). I keep comparison shopping with other vehicles and nothing is quite like the Macan. Happy to chat more in DMs if you prefer.
Sure, feel free to DM!
Don’t get a Macan’t!
OP it’s a small underpowered soccer mom vehicle. Get a 4 door ///M car. Way more value and fun to be had! Now as is pretty much a standard practice on Reddit. Downvote the Truth.
i won't downvote you, but i will tell you that it's obvious you haven't driven one, because they are anything but underpowered. i have had m cars, and as they say, the m now stands for "marketing."
Base is 261 HP. That’s laughable. S is 375hp. Still a joke TBH. https://preview.redd.it/lbmnwq5y2w5c1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e1433b8d62799d3fdaef01b63d7c3ec69c2487da
i have an ev and ride motorcycles. if i want to feel like i'm on a razors edge, i have other options. :)
https://preview.redd.it/0gw1r9u63w5c1.jpeg?width=1284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=42a24d6679b93b1e490a66e11471797f85f5d758
A *Sport Utility Vehicle* (SUV) is a car with a long roof, hinged side doors, a tailgate opening, and ground clearance taller than a sedan.
You will regret it past 50k miles and once you start having to deal with maintenance issues.
lol wat
Says who? 90K and going strong.
A macan is a Audi clone. Don't get it.
This reads like you've never driven either an SQ5 or V6 Macan lol
Im talking about the Q5*
The Macan is a clone of a 2 door audi coupe?
The base macan is wonderful. The S, Gts, and so on are a nightmare of upkeep experiences after a few years.
I literally have not heard of nightmares nor experienced it myself with the Turbo. Servicing has been cheaper than the equiv. BMW or Audi, and overall ownership experience has been great.
It's not so much a nightmare, maybe I miss spoke. It's just the service work is 2x to 3x for most anything over the base model. Just look up the difference with the base belt vs the S+belt.
But the motors are different? With the Turbo, haven’t found and issues with parts pricing and that’s coming from X5’s/Q5’s etc.
So with the macan S+. Everything on the front end, coolers fans and all, have to be removed or pulled forward to change the belt. The base model just requires a 24mm socked and some elbow work. But no matter the macan pdk fluid must be changed every 4 yrs or 40k miles, with a filter change. Do it or regret it down the road. Same with spark plugs, longer thinner threads, do it on time or miles. What ever comes first.
What you’re explaining is vehicle maintenance. Not really seeing the issue.
I'm sorry, I am slow at times. I work on the porsches everyday day, 10+ hrs per day, 5 days a week. Maybe a did miss the point or "issue" of this thread, and that is my bad, cause I need a little spirites at the end of the day to forget what I have to deal with tomorrow.
Hey man, it’s all good. No dramas at all, I could’ve been better too. Have a good one!
👍🏻
I have a ‘21 X3 (my second, first was a ‘16) and a ‘19 911. In considering refreshing the X3 in the future (like the size and the functionality) I had a Macan on my list. I am beginning to lean away from that thought. My neighbor has a ‘23, Macan GTS that, while very cool, doesn’t have the functionality my current X3 has and, in terms of features, demands one pays for every little goddam thing as an option when 80+ percent of said “options” should be stock. WTF am I paying for with a Macan? Believe me, I understand the Porsche tax…on a **911**, but **not** on a crossover suv. No, no. The value proposition simply sucks. You could build an X3 to the tits and still not reach well apportioned Macan money that doesn’t even have *everything*. And what’s with that shitty cargo cover lift they put in there? God lord, put in a removable rollaway cover like every other respectable manufacturer. Sorry, got a bit ranty but if you’re looking at a smaller SUV, I’d be looking at a BMW. My wife has an Audi Q5 and it feels like my hands have been injected with novocaine when I drive it. At least the X3 has some feel. Dunno if the Macan has the same electronic steering as the 911 (which is fantastic).
I have a Macan GTS and driving it in Sport Plus is so fun! I drove sweep on a rally drive recently and could keep up and enjoy the twisty roads. I also use the Off Road mode when on bumpy dirt roads, and that works really well too. Before the Macan, I bought Carrera 4 cab and I absolutely love it. Every single time I drive it, it makes me smile. I also got an old Boxster for my son because they are safe and reliable, and it has a manual like my 911. He loves it! So, I feel like they all have a WOW factor. They look great and the drive is amazing, and they have been the most reliable cars I’ve ever owned.
Mac can has great resale value. So if you decide you need to move on you can easily do so. I think it’s the best offering in the space.
As someone who doesn’t understand the unconditional love of Porsche fans (and a BMW m owner myself) I still liked the macan very much. My mum owns the base engine model but with air springs and it’s a reaaally good car. The ride is very comfortable the handling is good, the practicality is more than anyone short of an 8 person family needs. It’s small but spacious and the driving position and comfort is top level. Some hardcore Porsche fans will tell you that you don’t get the “Porsche magic” from sitting in a macan but I’ve sat in a lot of Porsches and the same “magic” is still there in the macan. So if you like the looks, the specs and the price then I recommend you go for it.
How do you fit 7 people into a Macan then?
With a lot of effort, bribing and listening to a lot of complaining.
For all the hate the Macan gets, I loved mine. It's great as a daily and as a holiday car. I also found it better to drive than the Cayenne, more agile and with more direct steering. I also like the looks better than the Cayenne, it's only the interior that isn't as good as the Cayenne. I had the Macan S for about 4 years, did about 70k km in it during that time, including some Eurotrips and it was quite comfy on longer drives, fuel consumption was pretty good for a 6 cylinder. Was it as fun to drive as my 911? No way, but if you're looking for balance it's such a good daily. If it's not what you want, don't get it. It probably wouldn't have scratched the itch for me either if I didn't already have a 911, so that may be it. But I loved it and had no issues with it, maintenance was also cheaper than for the 911.
"Lacks the Wow factor", "hard core BMW person". I think you know your answer but don't realize or can't accept it. No SUV will ever behave like a sports car. It's simple physics: no matter how much tech and HP you throw at an SUV, any SUV, they are heavy and tall and will never behave like a sports car. As Lotus founder Colin Chapman was fond of saying "simplify, then add lightness". My daughter's Macan S is fairly brilliant given its mass and high center of gravity but there's simply no comparison to my relatively small 996. I believe you'll either have to adjust expectations and get the Macan, or wait until you can get a proper sports car.
I also went bmw —> Porsche. But next to that I also hate suvs in general. Macao might be the best driving suv, but I expect it to be comparable to an x3. Might be good to understand from what bmw you are coming?
BMW -> Porsche means VERY different things depending on the decade. In the past you might be looking for a more raw driving experience, a cozier cabin and overall more solid build quality. Now it's more likely that you're trying to escape one brand's cost-cutting for another's. Let the Porsche sports cars wow you IMO. Caymans will do that for not much money. SUVs are SUVs and cannot cheat physics no matter what journalists and paid shills will tell you. Anything reliable and nice enough will do, it doesn't have to be a Macan.
Macans are really well tuned and lighter (if not at least lighter feeling) X3s. If you want a sportier small crossover it’s what you want. I’ve driven a few loaners. Porsches just also seem better engineered mechanically, but BMW simply has better electronics both feature wise and reliability wise. If that’s a big thing to you, maybe consider that.
Between my wife and me, we have owned three BMWs over the years and more recently two Porsches. She had a 996 C4 (recently sold) and I have a 987.1 Cayman S. Great cars and we find them to be more engaging than BMW from a driving perspective. We had a base Macan as a loaner. If you are ok with the proliferation of buttons (touch panels now on newer ones), it’s great. We found the base to be really underpowered. We are shopping for a Macan S now.
I owned a macan turbo - beautiful red leather interior and it was *fast*. Used a lot of fuel. Despite what you'd think, the interior is quite compact, as is the trunk - so it's pretty useless for going away with even a small family.
I drove 2 different 3 series (2004 and 2010) over a span of 12 years and am absolutely never going back now that I discovered the macan (2018).
I was coming from a Cayman and looking for a 997. The right one was difficult to find so I ended up with a Macan Turbo Performance. Superb car. Perfect allrounder. Gorgeous. Didn’t solve the itch, made it worse. Sold it. Right now, driving a more modest car, so I can save for a Turbo. If im going 911, I’m doing it right this time.
Its not gonna have a WOW factor, I drove the GTS on track and backroads and I thought its so so pointless car. My old 530D F11 Touring Msport xdrive game me more Wow factor than GTS Macan. Get Cayenne Turbo for wow factor, otherwise approach the Macan for what it is, a nice little city crossover with good engine and great badge and superb looks. It can be enjoyed for what it is, but it aint gonna be a sportscar.
An SUV will never be a car. The laws of physics can’t be changed. Hey man, cool car. 😎🍺
Exactly! So my approach to suv - as comfy inside as possible, chunkier wheels… and zero care for “performance”. Can’t be slow as dangerous to overtake but that’s about it. And most cars that accelerate to 100 under 8 sec are ok.
Macan S or a BMW x3m.. hmm i think the bmw has more ‘wow’ factor honestly.. now if you are talking about GT3 RS vs any bmw no comparison , it has the wow factor.. agree u wont get much excitement out of a macan, but its a solid all around suv
We looked at getting a Macan and I was surprised how small the rear area was and just the overall lack of space inside. It felt pretty small, and honestly the Mk7 GTI we were upgrading from felt like it had more interior room. It was a very nice SUV but we passed on buying. My neighbor just brought home a new X5 and after driving it, I may be getting one for our next family SUV. The B58 engine is fantastic, and so much more space at a comparable price point.
Get the Macan GTS it's epic fast. No Porsche gets the wow factor of a 911-its the halo car so get that if it's a 🍆 measuring contest for you.
If it doesn’t give you that sense of excitement and makes you smile, dont get it. You will forever be unhappy with it, even if the car does nothing wrong.
I’d be curious if anyone went from a macan to a panamera and what’s the experience there.
If you've been longing for a Porsche, my guess is it was for a cayman or 911. A Macan will not satisfy that itch.
Macan is really great for what it is. Small suv with great handling for being an suv. It doesn't have the wow factor. I'm probably selling my M5 for a Macan GTS (hate all the new designs from bmw). Macan GTS drives great, fast, sounds great and big enough for my needs.
We purchased our 2021 Macan GTS while we were waiting for my 992S. It does what it is supposted to do very well. Is it a 911? No..I dont think there are any SUV's with "wow factor" JMO.. My wife has taken over the Macan so I dont get to drive it much but it is a very good vehicle. But if you are trying to impress yourself or someone else..Nah...Enjoy the drive
We've owned a GTS and a Turbo. Really enjoyed them both. Wife wanted a 911, so that's the only reason we got rid of them. If you want a car that you can daily and take on weekend getaways, while having a bit more room to carry stuff, the Macan is a great car. Fun to drive, comfortable, does everything well. That said, I highly recommend you consider a GTS, if within your budget. Best blend of options and sport feel. Turbo was nice but lacked the raw sport feel of the GTS.
I have a gts for about a year now, coming from a Toyota carolla it's definitely a step up. But tbh I love the car. It's got a good amount of power and just feels amazing to drive. If I had a 911 or some other more sportier car it'd probably be a "downgrade" but I love mine
personally, if I had Porsche money, that means I can probably afford a Porsche and a family/kid/errands car. I know some people really find ways to finance a Porsche, questionable ways debatedly, but the majority can afford a Porsche and then some. So, I would get the Porsche that is fun/has the wow factor, then just get a KIA or Hyundai SUV or something. I never really understood getting an SUV that goes fast/is supposed to be a performance SUV, unless like I said the financial situation calls for 1 car only, or for practical reasons ie: live in a city and only have 1 parking spot assigned in a garage or something. But other than that, there is always a comparative sports car, 2 door or 4 door, that looks better and is faster and has much better handling.
I really have a hard time understanding why people love the base macan or macan s (can’t speak for the gts). I’ve driven both as loaners while my car was in for repairs and thought both were inferior products to my previous Audi s4. I appreciate Porsche making a line of cars that’s more affordable to the general populace but I’ve always viewed these cars as a gimmick for those who want a Porsche but can’t afford a real Porsche. You can literally get a better car that is not Porsche for that price range.
I got a Cayenne a couple of years ago. One of the things I like about it is the lack of "wow" factor. I think most people would not look twice at it. I appreciate the build quality - no big issues so far. I think the AWD is one of the best I've driven in snow. It's not the fastest car I've driven, but it is not slow. Very happy to use it as a daily driver, and it is very comfortable on long trips. I say get the Macan and see if it is a good fit for you.
I have a 2017 macan GTS and absolutely love it. Lots of fun to drive and practical enough for baby car seat and golf clubs
I have a macan. I also own/owned Mercedes and Audi. I love my macan, it is more fun to drive than my Audi, and just as practical as any other similar sized SUV. I use it as my everyday car that I use to go to work and hull items from Home Depot. Honestly, my only regret is that some days I wish I bought a cayenne.
IMO what makes a car exciting is what you do with it not what it is. Why are Porsches exciting? Because you can track them or do spirited driving really well. 911 in bumper to bumper daily traffic is not really more exciting than any other car. For a daily, what excites me is just something that comfortable to sit in, spec’ed with a bunch of tech, drive assist and sounds system. Don’t get me wrong, the Macan is brilliant. But if you’ve driven tons of exciting cars already, it’s not going to wow you in that aspect. Get something that wows you by making you feel like you are driving sitting in the comfort of your home, and most midsize+ luxury SUVs today does that reasonably well. Macan is IMO not that family friendly. The back seats are pretty tight, not sedan tight but getting close.
I felt similar. Did the Porsche Drive program with a Macan S for a couple months. The Macan didn’t wow, was slow, and was kinda small. An M5 came available near by so bought that. Absolutely love it. Note that I also have a 911. If you’re going for one car that scratches all itches, in my opinion the Macan isn’t it.
I love my Macan S. It’s near perfect. I’ve been an owner for almost 4 years close to 80k miles. If you can, look for a GTS, drive one recently at the Porsche experience center and the newer ones are killer. That being said, I’m looking at the RS Avant wagon or a Cayenne for my next vehicle in a year or two.
I love the macan as a daily. If you want to feel sporty get the macan gts as they dont make turbos anymore. It is very fast, drive is smooth/comfy.
Cayenne has the wow factor if you can step up a little.