The newest SUV from Porsche will begin production in 2013, which means details on the smaller Cayenne cousin are going to start appearing.
Now named the Macan, the German automaker will be releasing its top-of-the-line turbo variant with a new 3.0-liter, twin-turbo V6 powerplant believed to be based on the larger engine from the base-model Cayenne. The Macan Turbo will have 370 hp and aims to establish a niche as the fastest and most dynamic model in its class. Thanks to a pair of Borg Warner sequential turbos, it’s believed the 370 hp will be backed with 400 lb-ft of torque.
The Macan will be based on Volkswagen‘s new MLB platform with a V6 and an Audi-engineered, Torsen torque-sensing differential that Porsche has tweaked for the Macan to power all four wheels. Transmission choices will include a seven-speed manual, or an optional seven-speed, dual-clutch PDK.
“We’ve surprised even ourselves,” said Porsche development boss Wolfgang Hatz said about the Macan. “It drives incredibly well and, from what we’ve seen from the competition, will be the most sporting car in its class.”
In addition to the 3.0-liter V6, the Macan will be the first Porsche since 1995 to have a four-cylinder engine offering. Though it’s not confirmed, it’s widely believed that the base-model Macan will have a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with around 220 hp. A turbodiesel option may also come in the form of a 2.0-liter with 190 hp.
