Almost every car maker has a compact SUV on their books these days.
However, few are as delicious as Porsche’s effort, which is getting a mid-life facelift in a bid to keep it looking as fresh as it did when it emerged in 2014.
Porsche says the Macan has been comprehensively upgraded in terms of design, comfort, connectivity and driving dynamics – and we believe them.
Just look at the pictures – that gorgeous new blue hue alone would’ve been enough to lend the softroader a fresh feel.
One of the most notable design changes is the three-dimensional LED tail light strip that stretches across the boot lid. The same LED technology is used on the main headlamps too and combined, the new lights lend the Macan an even sportier and more modern appearance.
This high-quality lighting system can be further optimised with the Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) – an optional extra that controls the light distribution adaptively.
Four new exterior colours, new 20- and 21-inch wheels and new interior themes mean the Macan can now be personalised more than ever before.
However, Porsche reckons the most striking revisions are inside.
The Macan’s cabin now features a new 10.9-inch touchscreen (previously 7.2 inches), installed with the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, which provides access to new digital functions such as intelligent voice control and standard online navigation.
Elsewhere on the dashboard, the air vents have been redesigned and shifted below the central screen, while the Macan has pinched the 911 GT’s sports steering wheel as an optional extra. This new steering wheel integrates a ‘Sport Response’ button as the Sport Chrono package finds its way into the Macan.
A heated windscreen and an ioniser to improve interior air quality have been added to make the Macan more comfortable than before.
What about technical changes though?
Engine range is expected to remain unchanged from the original model.
However, Porsche has fine-tuned the Macan’s chassis to deliver consistent driving stability and improved comfort, and continues to toy with the unconventional by mixing tyres with different tyre widths on the front and rear axles.
There are some new assistance systems too, namely traffic jam assistant and adaptive cruise control to allow for more comfortable and relaxed driving.
Around 350,000 Macans have been sold around the world since its introduction in 2014 – working out at around 90,000 every year and far exceeding the 40,000 originally projected at launch.
Production of the new Macan at Porsche’s Leipzig plant commenced at the start of September, with more than 420 units being turned out every day.
What do you think of the refreshed Macan? Would you take it over the Evoque? Let us know down in the comments…
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