2018 Porsche Macan

While plenty of luxury crossovers are on the market, few provide the incredible performance and plush amenities of the 2018 Porsche Macan. Although it's one of the pricier options among small, high-end SUVs, drivers and experts alike are impressed by the overall excellence of the Macan.

What's New for 2018?

No major changes for the 2018 Porsche Macan after a few new trims were added in 2017.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 Porsche Macan – The Pros

1. Powerful Performance

The Macan has a total of four engines to choose from and each one is better than the last. The lineup starts with a 252-horsepower turbo four-cylinder engine. The next two trims, the S and GTS, each has a twin-turbo V6 boasting 340 horses in the former and 360 in the latter. If you opt for the top-of-the-line turbo trim, you'll enjoy the power of a twin-turbo V6 that offers 400 horsepower. The available Performance Package pushes it over the edge to 440. All four engines are paired with Porsche's smooth-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Zero-to-60 times range from 6 to just 4.4.

2. Athletic Handling

All trims of the 2018 Porsche Macan come with all-wheel drive. The vehicle's sharp steering and smooth ride call to mind the brand's sports cars, while the sport mode ups the ante even further for those who want a dynamic driving experience. You can even take the Macan off the road.

3. Refined Interior

The name Porsche is synonymous with luxury, and the Macan does not disappoint in this regard. The serene, hushed cabin is appointed with well-made, high-quality materials, including standard leather and suede upholstery on all trims. You'll enjoy supportive, spacious seating for up to five. Relax in the glow of ambient lighting and remain comfortable regardless of the weather with tri-zone automatic climate control.

4. Standard Driver Assistance Features

Every trim of the 2018 Porsche Macan is equipped with high-tech safety features: a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and lane departure warning. On higher trims, drivers will also benefit from headlights that automatically swivel to follow the curve of the road, adaptive cruise control, a 360-view camera, and lane-changing and lane-keeping assistance.

5. Expansive Standard Tech

All trims of the 2018 Porsche Macan are fully outfitted with the latest in auto tech, providing plenty of entertainment for long road trips along with the info you need for a seamless commute. The 7-inch touchscreen is equipped with both satellite and HD radio and a 10-speaker sound system. There are also two USB ports, two SD card slots, and internal storage for up to 11 GB of music.

6. Extensive Customization Options

While all four trims of the 2018 Porsche Macan are generously outfitted, drivers can create the vehicle of their dreams with an incredible range of special packages and add-on features. Most notable are the Premium Package and Premium Package Plus. The former includes adaptive headlights and mirrors along with heated seats in both the front and rear. Music lovers will appreciate the premium 16-speaker Bose sound system that comes with this package, too. If you opt for Premium Plus, your Porsche will include all that plus 14-way power-adjustable front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and keyless ignition and entry.

7. Impressive Off-Roading Capabilities

Why not take a luxury vehicle out on the trails? With the 2018 Porsche Macan, it's more than possible. The SUV comes with a push-button off-roading mode that allows you to adjust the brakes, throttle, and transmission based on the terrain you're tackling. It also includes a downhill speed management assistant, and those who opt for the air suspension system will have nine inches of ground clearance to play with.

8. Optional Towing Capabilities

Not only can you take the 2018 Porsche Macan off-road, you can even take it camping when outfitted with the optional tow hitch receiver, which accommodates up to 4,409 pounds.

9. Exceptional Resale Value

The Porsche Macan has won Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value award in the Luxury SUV category for several years in a row. If you're looking for a high-end crossover that will hold its value, look no further.

10. Class-Exclusive Sports Chrono Package

The Porsche Macan is the only vehicle in its class that gives drivers a true sports car experience, particularly when they opt for the Sports Chrono package with class-exclusive air suspension. It also includes a button drivers can push to change the way the car responds to their input, trimming the zero-to-60 time and pushing the envelope on the performance possible with an SUV.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 Porsche Macan – The Cons

1. Below-Average Fuel Economy

The 2018 Porsche Macan comes in under most of its competitors when it comes to fuel economy. You'll get an EPA-estimated 20 city/25 highway miles per gallon in the base model and 17/23 with any of the V6 engines.

2. Minimal Cargo Capacity

Most of the Macan's rivals beat it in the cargo department. The Porsche crossover offers just 17.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53 when they're folded (though they don't fold completely flat). However, a power liftgate is standard.

3. No Android Auto Functionality

While this is a minor quibble, Porsche doesn't yet support smartphone connectivity using Android Auto. Apple CarPlay is available on higher trims only.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition

Although the 2018 Porsche Macan is an outstanding SUV, it also has the highest price in its class. Those that want to spend less and get a more spacious interior and similarly athletic performance might consider rivals such as the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Jaguar F-Pace.

Conclusion

Porsche is getting major accolades in recent years for effortlessly combining the best attributes of a sports car and an SUV. With the 2018 Macan, they have created an all-around excellent luxury vehicle that will appeal to a wide swath of buyers. The 2018 Porsche Macan even received a rare five-star rating from Car and Driver; the publication also named it the year's best luxury SUV. J.D. Power and Associates also gave the new Macan five stars overall.

Previous Porsche Macan Buying Guides:

• Why buy a 2017 Porsche Macan? w/ pros vs cons