- Boasts new chassis upgrades
- Turbo 4-cylinder produces 245 horsepower
- 0-60 mph acceleration of 6.3 seconds
- Current 2018 model priced from $47,800
Porsche has updated its 2019 Macan compact SUV, with new exterior design elements, improved chassis and a revamped infotainment system featuring a 10.9-inch touchscreen. The new model is expected to go on sale early next year.
Porsche expects the new Macan, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, to be capable of 0-60 mph acceleration of 6.3 seconds (6.1 seconds with Sport Chrono package) and a top speed of 140 mph. The engine produces 245 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque is mated to a 7-speed PDK dual clutch automatic transmission.
Updated suspension
Porsche said it has reworked the chassis on the Macan to improve both ride and handling. The all-wheel drive system features the Porsche Traction Management system to maximize traction on dry and wet pavement. In addition to retuning suspension response, Porsche has also incorporated redesigned tires to increase lateral grip. A variety of wheel and tire packages ranging from 18 to 21 inches in diameter are available.
The 2019 Porsche Macan is distinguished by a more streamlined front fascia that appears wider and incorporates LED lighting. The rear of the vehicle is also revamped to include LED lighting built into a light bar that now extends the full width of the liftgate, also emphasizing the width of the Macan.
Also: Get your first look at the new and redesigned cars of 2019
New infotainment
In addition to the exterior upgrades, the new Macan features Porsche Connect Plus with online navigation as standard. The system is housed in a new 10.9-inch center touchscreen, which is up considerably from the previous 7.2-inch display. Drivers can customize the look of the screen using predefined tiles for various features including the phone, audio system and other apps. Among these apps are the Porsche connect app and Porsche Car Connect app that allows the driver to communicate with the vehicle via a smartphone. Also offered is an Off-Road Precision app that allows you to record your off-road excursions. Other connectivity features include an LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, two audio interfaces and intelligent voice control.
Among the new options available on the Macan is a GT sport steering wheel modeled after the one used in the 911. A drive mode switch that works with the optional sport chrono package is featured on the new wheel. A new traffic assist system uses adaptive cruise control provides lane keeping assist, and full stop-and-go capability in traffic up to 37 mph.
The changes to the 2019 Macan will appear on the standard 4-cylinder model which is priced at $48,700. Later on in the model year, the updates will work their way through the lineup to include the higher priced Macan S, which features a 340-horsepower turbo V6 and is priced from $55,400.