Porsche is undergoing a significant transformation, embracing electric vehicle technology. After the Taycan, Porsche is committed to offering electric versions across its lineup, with the exception of the Panamera and 911. The electric Macan, a two-row crossover, marks the beginning of this electric push. This move into electric crossovers is logical, aligning with market trends where numerous brands offer similar vehicles. As Porsche’s entry-level model, electrifying the Macan significantly reduces the brand’s overall emissions. The electric transition also presents opportunities to redefine vehicle categories and challenge established norms. For example, Lamborghini is reportedly benchmarking Hyundai, a scenario previously unthinkable. This raises the question: Where does the new electric Macan, a Porsche Crossover, fit into this evolving landscape? Let’s delve into a comprehensive review.
David’s Initial Macan EV Impressions
Upon receiving the Macan EV, my immediate impression was how surprisingly low the seating position is. This Porsche crossover prioritizes aerodynamics and a sleek profile, feeling less like a traditional, upright SUV. This observation was echoed by Eric Tingwall of Motor Trend, who noted the lower center of gravity in the electric Macan compared to the gasoline version, thanks to the air springs and battery pack.
The interior of this Porsche crossover exudes quality and aesthetic appeal. The signature Porsche three-spoke steering wheel is exceptional, featuring the discreetly placed heated-steering-wheel button. The hoodless gauge cluster remains clear even in bright sunlight. The passenger screen adds an element of fun, enjoyed by my wife, although it’s not visible from the driver’s perspective. Material quality throughout the cabin is excellent, and the dash-mounted shifter is a welcome, practical touch.
The compact shifter design frees up center console space in this Porsche crossover. However, Porsche’s utilization of this space is debatable. While it includes two cupholders, the “flying buttress” style storage bin seems less practical than it could be.
Despite the electric powertrain, a prominent center tunnel remains, which, in my opinion, detracts from the open, airy feel that a flat floor could provide.
Conversely, a center console might be deemed more fitting for a sporty Porsche crossover. Still, a more functional console would be preferable. Accessing the rear USB-C ports within the bin is also challenging. Another minor inconvenience is the lack of an extending sun visor, a surprising omission in a vehicle of this caliber, especially when dealing with sun glare from the side.
The HVAC controls in this Porsche crossover are situated on the center tunnel, combining rocker switches and haptic buttons with a physical volume knob. While functional, physical buttons placed higher on the dash would be more intuitive and free up console space for storage.
The Macan EV boasts excellent cameras that simplify parking. Forward visibility is good, while rear visibility is adequate. Passenger space is generous, with ample rear legroom for someone of my height (5’8″). The cargo area is spacious, and the frunk offers practical storage, particularly for items you prefer to keep separate from the main cabin.
I found the frunk to be a useful space for tools and potentially muddy gear.
Thomas’s Perspective on the Base Macan 4S Porsche Crossover
The question arises: is it better to opt for a highly-specified Porsche crossover or a more basic configuration? While David’s Macan EV included premium features like extended leather and a passenger screen, my test model was closer to the base specification. While I slightly missed the leather dashboard, the standard plastics maintain a high-quality feel, making it a minor compromise. In fact, I preferred the simpler dashboard without the passenger screen, even with the glossy black plastic panel. The absence of the Sport Chrono clock was also inconsequential. Overall, the cabin of this Porsche crossover in its base form is functional, robust, and well-designed.
The technology in this Porsche crossover operates smoothly. Porsche’s infotainment system is responsive, dependable, and user-friendly. Although physical controls for heated seats are preferred, the illuminated haptic touch panel with tactile feedback is a decent alternative to screen-based controls. The gauge cluster is commendable for its screen quality and customization options. The Bose audio system, however, is somewhat underwhelming in terms of dynamic range, and its surround sound processing is subpar, necessitating a switch to stereo for better audio quality. The optional Burmester system, while expensive, is likely a worthwhile upgrade for audiophiles at this luxury level.
Annoyances are subjective. While USB-C port visibility was an issue for David, I found them easily accessible. Similarly, the lack of extending sun visors wasn’t a problem for me, given my height and driving position. However, the steering column adjustment in this Porsche crossover felt limited. Even with the low seating position I prefer, the steering wheel always seemed slightly high to maintain gauge visibility, and telescopic adjustment could be more extensive as the wheel felt slightly distant even at full extension. My test Macan also experienced a one-time audio glitch, cutting out all sound including turn signal clicks, which was resolved by restarting the car but was a minor concern.
The Macan Electric effectively incorporates Porsche’s design language. While the sloping rear window on crossovers can be divisive, it works cohesively with Porsche’s heritage. The gentle fender contours and restrained use of sharp lines present a refreshingly understated aesthetic, especially compared to the increasingly aggressive styling trends in modern cars.
While cars shouldn’t be purely fashion statements, the electric Macan Porsche crossover embodies a “Birkin of small electric luxury crossovers” – stylish, practical, and designed for lasting visual appeal. For a premium electric crossover in this price range (CAD $122,400 as tested), long-term style is a significant factor.
Canyon Driving Experience in the Macan 4 Porsche Crossover
The driving dynamics are a standout feature of the Porsche Macan EV, though not without minor flaws. Initial low-speed, tight turns revealed tire chirping from the rear, suggesting the torque-control software and rear-steering system could be better calibrated for optimal differential speeds in such maneuvers, resulting in “crow hop.”
However, in canyon driving, the Macan EV truly shines. Engaging sport mode and pushing the 5,000+ pound Porsche crossover through winding roads showcased the exceptional grip of the Pirelli P Zero Corsas tires. Despite its weight, the vehicle felt agile and responsive, encouraging harder driving thanks to the tenacious grip of the tires. Torque delivery differs from AWD gasoline cars; in the Macan, accelerating out of corners resulted in a slight tendency for the nose to dart into the turn. Some understeer was also noticeable in certain situations, but the car’s system effectively brakes the inside rear wheel to aid rotation.
Performance-wise, the Macan EV isn’t the quickest EV, with a 0-60 mph time in the 4-5 second range. While not overtly rapid, it is adequately quick, especially considering the engaging sound in sport mode and the active rear spoiler.
Ride comfort on highways and in city driving is a Porsche hallmark. The Macan EV balances sporty handling with genuine comfort, a feat Porsche executes exceptionally well.
City Driving in the Macan 4S Porsche Crossover
While the standard Macan 4 isn’t exceptionally fast for an EV, the Macan 4S, the Porsche crossover variant I tested, offers a significant power boost. Launch control peak output increases from 402 to 509 horsepower, dropping the 0-60 mph time from 4.9 to 3.9 seconds. While still not class-leading in EV acceleration, this upgrade is noticeable when demanding quick acceleration. However, the refined power delivery of the Macan 4S is more impressive than outright speed.
Unlike many fast EVs with overly sensitive acceleration, the Macan 4S offers incredibly tractable and precisely controlled power delivery. This allows for smooth and effortless driving even with very subtle pedal inputs. The Macan 4S is equally comfortable cruising at a relaxed pace, though the frameless windows do generate some wind noise.
The two-chamber air suspension in this Porsche crossover represents a significant advancement over older air suspension systems. It effectively absorbs road imperfections without excessive body roll. The brake pedal provides a natural feel with a smooth transition between regenerative and friction braking, unlike the sometimes springy feel in the Taycan. The Macan 4S transitions effortlessly from relaxed cruising to dynamic performance with a simple turn of the steering wheel-mounted dial.
Sport mode sharpens all aspects of the Macan 4S. The suspension lowers and stiffens, and the accelerator becomes more responsive. Entering on-ramps at speed reveals the cohesive performance of this Porsche crossover. The four-wheel steering enhances grip and stability in high-speed corners, even on winter tires, and the optional 18-way adjustable seats provide excellent support during spirited driving. Predictable and controllable rotation on corner exit further enhances the driving experience. However, the steering feel is a slight drawback.
Even in the most aggressive settings, the steering in this Porsche crossover is lighter and less communicative than expected, particularly compared to a Cayenne, even on winter tires. This necessitates a degree of trust in the front axle, which can be slightly unnerving and raises questions about the level of Audi influence in the Macan’s Premium Platform Electric architecture. While Porsche excels at engineering optimization, the steering feedback in the Macan 4S could be further refined.
David’s Perspective on Depreciation of the Porsche Crossover
Spending $110,000 on a new Porsche Macan, a luxury electric crossover, warrants careful consideration. While the Macan EV is a well-engineered vehicle and enjoyable to drive, its high price tag raises value concerns.
The automotive industry is in a transitional phase. Brands historically distinguished by unique engines, lightweight construction, refined transmissions, and distinctive exhaust notes are now producing EVs, where many of these differentiating factors are less relevant.
EVs share similar torque curves, are generally heavy, have centrally located batteries, and often lack distinctive powertrain sounds. EV enthusiasts prioritize charging speed, efficiency, and packaging over traditional performance metrics. Advancements in interior quality, widespread availability of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and improved design across brands have narrowed the gap between luxury and mainstream vehicles. This shift leads to scenarios where brands like Hyundai and Kia are increasingly compared favorably to Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
The $110,000 price tag of the Macan EV press vehicle prompted the question: Is this Porsche crossover twice as good as a significantly more powerful Kia EV6 GT? The answer is no. While acknowledging Porsche’s brand appeal, the core attributes of EVs in 2025 have leveled the playing field.
However, the primary concern isn’t direct competition but depreciation. A fully-loaded $110,000 mid-size electric Porsche crossover with 402 horsepower and a 308-mile range faces significant depreciation risk. These figures, while respectable, aren’t exceptional for an EV in this price bracket.
The Porsche Macan is priced as a top performer, but while it may outperform some mid-size EV SUVs, the margin doesn’t justify the premium. Online forums, like the Macan EV owner’s forum, reflect concerns about depreciation, with discussions on expected value loss and the unfavorable resale market for luxury EVs.
Forum discussions highlight rapid depreciation trends, citing examples of significant value drops in Taycan and other luxury EVs. One forum user noted a Taycan Turbo S selling for 45% of MSRP after just three years, with dealerships reluctant to take it as trade-in. Leasing is suggested as a potentially more financially sound option for EVs due to depreciation concerns.
Another forum thread titled “Macan EV Prices Falling – Depreciation” further emphasizes these concerns, pointing to auction results where a nearly new Macan EV sold for significantly below MSRP, illustrating substantial immediate depreciation.
Writer’s Note: Rapid depreciation is a broader issue with luxury EVs. Early Taycans and Model S models have experienced dramatic value declines. A Lucid Air lost over half its value in under a year. Depreciation is a major factor to consider when purchasing any high-end electric vehicle.
David’s Verdict on the Macan 4 Porsche Crossover
Overall, the Macan EV is a commendable Porsche crossover. While not flawless—lane keep assist is overly aggressive, the price is exorbitant, center console packaging could be improved, sun visor extension is needed, haptic buttons are not ideal, acceleration isn’t exceptional, and low-speed handling quirks exist—it offers a comfortable ride, refined handling, high-quality interior, and the Porsche badge. Whether it outperforms cheaper EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N remains to be seen, highlighting the changing landscape of EV value.
Ultimately, the question is whether the Porsche badge, interior quality, and handling justify the substantial depreciation risk. For many, the answer may be no. However, some buyers prioritize the Porsche brand and are less concerned about depreciation. For others, waiting for used Macan EVs to become more affordable might be a more prudent approach.
Thomas’s Verdict on the Macan 4S Porsche Crossover
The electric Porsche Macan Porsche crossover presents a mix of positives and negatives. While the chassis feedback isn’t quintessential Porsche and the vehicle is expensive, it excels as a smaller luxury electric crossover. Alternatives like the Mercedes-Benz EQB, Audi Q6 e-tron, and Genesis GV60 fall short in various aspects. The Polestar 3 is promising but has a limited service network.
Depreciation is a concern across the luxury EV segment. However, for buyers with the budget who find the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N lacking refinement, the electric Macan stands out. For those downsizing from a Tesla Model S and seeking a non-Tesla luxury EV, the Porsche Macan is a compelling option. Opting for a higher trim level without overspending on options can strike a balance between luxury and performance.
For those not ready for full electrification but seeking a greener Porsche SUV, the Cayenne E-Hybrid is worth considering, potentially offering comparable monthly lease payments despite a higher purchase price.
