Porsche’s second sports utility vehicle, the upcoming 2014 Porsche Macan crossover, was being tested in a cleverly disguised prototype to avoid leaks. However, the camouflaging wasn’t enough to fool auto journalists who snapped up many images of the production-ready version of the SUV. Initially codenamed “Cajun”, the Porsche Macan will compete with other mid-size crossovers such as the BMW X3, the Audi Q5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLK. The test vehicle sported fake headlights and taillights, with chrome strips adorning the rear doors, and the window trim’s trailing edge had been extended with tape, giving the look of a Cayenne. However, the large centre grille was hard to miss, as was the immaculate bonnet and the long patch up and the sloped back, which confirmed that this was in fact the upcoming Porsche Macan SUV.
Based on the Audi Q5’s architecture, the Porsche Macan SUV is like the Cayenne’s little brother. However, the Macan will be shorter and wider compared to the Q5, and will be designed in Porsche’s unique style. In February, Porsche had released its new SUV illustration, and had also announced the official name of the SUV as the ‘Macan’, as against the earlier ‘Cajun’.
US customers will be offered a choice between a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four cylinder engine giving 237 hp and a supercharged V-6 engine giving around 288 bhp- a hybrid is very likely. The SUV’s powertrains are likely to be sourced from Audi. No diesel version will be offered in the US while Europe might get a diesel version. An 8-speed automatic transmission is likely to be offered while a 6-speed manual transmission cannot be ruled out either.
Porsche is also considering a 2-door version of the Macan SUV, besides the 4-door version mentioned here. Indian fans can expect the Porsche Macan SUV to be launched here by late 2013 or early 2014.