Porsche unveils Macan SUV at LA Motor Show

Porsche has unveiled an all-new compact SUV at the LA Auto Show. Christened the Macan, it is based on the Q5 platform and will be built at Porsche’s plant in Leipzig, Germany. The company is offering Macan with a choice of three engines.

The Macan S gets a 3 litre biturbo V6 petrol power plant, developing 340 PS and 460 Nm of torque which helps the car touch 100 kph from a standstill in 5.4 seconds and reach at top speed of 254 kph.

The Macan S Diesel is powered by a 3 litre turbo diesel V6 which puts out 245 PS and 580 Nm - good for a top speed of 230 kph.

The top-of-the-line Macan Turbo sports a 3.6 litre turbo charged V6 petrol unit which pumps out 400 PS and 550 Nm. Porsche claims a 0-100 kph time of 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 266 kph for the Turbo.

All three variants are equipped with an all-wheel-drive system and a seven speed PDK dual clutch transmission. A sport chrono package, which enhances performance, can be opted for on the S and the Turbo.

Smaller and less expensive than the Cayenne, the Macan will rival the Range Rover Evoque and the BMW X3. Porsche is banking on it to appeal to a wider clientele.

The Macan is likely to be displayed at the Delhi Auto Expo in February 2014.