Summary
Some SUVs are built for practicality and others for luxury, but the 2020 Porsche Macan GTS is the rare one built specifically for driving pleasure. Sure, it has a rear cargo area and rear seats like any other compact crossover, but that’s the only draw from Porsche’s rich sports car history to inspire its drivers to push things to the limit. The twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 puts out 375 horsepower, and the Macan’s sharp steering and fine-tuned chassis are the perfect match for the engine’s enthusiasm. The regular Macan (which we reviewed separately) is also fun to drive, but the GTS model’s added performance and sportier styling set it apart from its four-cylinder stablemate; it feels more like a sports sedan than an SUV. We like the Macan GTS so much that we included it in our Top 10 2020 list and awarded it an Editors’ Choice award.
What’s New for 2020?
The Macan GTS returns to Porsche’s SUV lineup this year after a hiatus for the 2019 model year. The performance-oriented GTS is motivated by the Macan Turbo model’s feisty 2.9-liter turbocharged V-6 engine which has been tweaked to produce 375 horsepower.
Price and Which One to Buy
The Macan GTS is well-equipped with performance stuff right out of the gate, but we found the luxury of this SUV a bit lacking. So we’ll order the Premium Plus package, which includes a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated 14-way adjustable front seats, Apple CarPlay, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo system.
Engine, Transmission and Performance
While the base Macan could be had with a turbocharged four-cylinder, going with the performance-oriented GTS would unlock a much more powerful twin-turbo V-6 engine. The engine produces 375 horsepower, which helps the Macan GTS to an impressive 60 mph 3.9 seconds on our test track. Several rivals offer more power, including the Mercedes-AMG GLC63 which comes with a 469 hp turbocharged V-8. Despite its lack of power, the Macan GTS feels the more perfect of the two thanks to its sharper handling and more communicative steering. If you’re looking for the same maximum power and cornering agility, Porsche is happy to sell you a more expensive example of the Macan Turbo, which we reviewed separately.
Real World Fuel and MPG Savings
The Macan GTS carries EPA fuel economy estimates of 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway but during a 75 mph highway fuel economy test we recorded an impressive 27 mpg. For more information on the Macan GTS’s fuel economy, visit EPA website.
Interior, Comfort and Cargo
While the entry-level Macan is a bit too basic for the price, the GTS model comes with more comforts such as leather upholstery, aluminum trim and heated front seats. However, those looking for an SUV with a more upscale cabin may find the Mercedes-AMG GLC class more appealing. The Macan GTS is set up for maximum fun, with well-placed controls, good outward visibility and a comfortable driving position. Its cargo space isn’t as large as some of its competitors, but when was buying a Porsche ever a rational choice? We fit six carry-on bags in the cargo hold and 16 with the rear seats folded, which should be enough for most people.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Porsche infotainment system can be had with all sorts of high-tech features, including new-for-2020 Apple CarPlay wireless connectivity and wireless device charging. However, like almost everything on the Mac’s equipment list, enjoying those features comes at a cost. USB ports and 12-volt outlets are scattered throughout the cabin, so drivers and passengers should be able to keep their devices fully charged. With a standard mobile Wi-Fi plan, a family data plan might be able to get through the trip unscathed too.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The Macan GTS can be had with many modern driver assistance features, but very few are standard fare. The Macan GTS can be had in a variety of ways driver assistance technology, but almost nothing is standard. Key safety features include:
- Standard lane departure warning
- Automatic emergency braking is available
- Adaptive cruise control is available
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Porsche warranty coverage is good but not great. The BMW X3 M and Jaguar F-Pace SVR offer a wider range in certain areas.
- The limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- The powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
Specification
Specification
Porsche Macan GTS 2020
TRANSPORTATION TYPE
front engine, all wheel drive, 5 passenger carriage, 4 doors
PRICE ACCORDING TO THE TEST
$98,160 (base price: $72,650)
MACHINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Transfer
177 entered32894 cm3
Power
375 hp @ 6700 rpm
torque
383 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm
TRANSMISSION
7 speed automatic dual clutch
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): multilink/multilink
Brakes (F/R): 15.4 inch vented, tungsten carbide coated disc/14.0 inch ventilated disc, tungsten carbide plated disc
Tires: Michelin Latitude Sport 3, F: 265/40R-21 101Y N2 R: 295/35R-21 103Y N2
SIZE
Wheelbase: 110.6 inches
Length: 184.5 inches
Width: 76.1 inches
Height: 63.0 inches
Passenger volume: 96 feet3
Cargo volume: 18 feet3
Curb weight: 4468 lb
CD TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 3.9 seconds
100 mph: 10.8 seconds
130 mph: 20.5 seconds
150 mph: 33.4 seconds
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 4.9 seconds
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 2.7 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 3.6 sec
1/4 mile: 12.6 seconds @ 107 mph
Top speed (mfr claims): 162 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 155 ft
Braking, 100–0 mph: 306 ft
Roadblock, 300 ft diameter skidpad: 0.94 g
The standing-start acceleration time eliminates a 1-foot launch from 0.2 seconds.
CD FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 20 mpg
Driving on the highway 75 mph: 27 mpg
Highway range: 530 miles
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 19/17/22 mpg
More Features and Specifications
