Porsche Macan Turbo Grows Even Hotter for 2020, Just in Time for It All to End

Think of it as a swan song for gasoline propulsion, not the Macan itself. For the 2020 model year, the hottest version of Porsche’s entry-level ute returns with more power and less displacement on tap, but the Macan Turbo sings its siren song against a funeral dirge backdrop.

This vehicle is a get-one-while-you-still-can proposition.

While the Macan saw a mid-cycle refresh this year, updates to the Macan Turbo were a longer time coming. This week, Porsche announced the twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 that once powered the hot ute is gone, replaced by a 2.9-liter unit with similar breathing characteristics and a power boost you’ll only be able to appreciate after leaving the line.

The Macan Turbo now makes 434 horsepower, up from its predecessor’s 400 ponies. Torque actually drops a single foot-pound, from 406 lb-ft to 405, but 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds isn’t likely to cause anyone to lose sleep over that missing lb-ft. All of that newfound power makes its way to each of the model’s 20-inch wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, and standard adaptive damping ensures the Macan stays level, especially when you’re away from the prying eyes of the local constabulary. Top speed is now 167 mph, which almost no owner will ever reach. God help them and their license if they do.

Completing the package is an updated fascia, front and back, as well as a roof spoiler. Should you feel the need to spend more money than absolutely necessary (this thing starts at $84,950‬ after destination), Porsche has a wish list waiting: ceramic brakes and adjustable air suspension is on offer. You won’t have to pay extra for the standard 10.9-inch touchscreen.

While the changes coming to the Macan Turbo make it a better car, fans might not like what comes next. The Macan line is expected to go fully electric early next decade, as per an earlier announcement from Porsche.

“The Supervisory Board of Porsche AG has decided to manufacture the next generation of the Macan as a fully electric series,” the company stated in February. “This will be the first all-electric compact SUV from Porsche, and is due to roll off the assembly line at the start of the next decade.”

As best as anyone can figure, the next-generation, gas-free Macan will appear in 2021 as a 2022 model. Once free of its internal combustion restraints, the Macan, riding on Premium Platform Electric architecture co-developed with Audi, will borrow the 800V charging system found in the upcoming Taycan EV and its Cross Turismo crossover/wagon sibling.

[Image: Porsche AG]