Porsche Macan Turbo to strike new niche

Porsche hopes its mid-size Macan SUV will discover a new high-powered nook to position itself when they stuff a 370hp (275kW) turbocharged engine under the bonnet, Autocar reports.

Currently there’s no über powerful products in the Macan’s class, although there have been reports of a 300hp Audi Q3 RS versus 320hp BMW X1 M battle in the class below. And, of course the Cayenne Turbo, BMW X5 M and the like in the category above the Macan.

According to Wolfgang Hatz, head of Porsche Research and Development, the Macan is progressing well. “It drives incredibly well and, from what we’ve seen from the competition, will be the most sporting car in its class,” he claimed. “We’ve surprised even ourselves.”

The Macan will be built on Volkswagen Group’s MLB platform and the Turbo will most likely feature a 3.0 litre V6 engine, mounted north–south, and a Torsen-based all wheel drive system.

It’s been reported for some time that Porsche will return to using four cylinder motors for its lower-spec models. Turns out the Macan could be the first to lead the charge.

[Source: Autocar]