2021 Porsche Macan

Pros: Vigorous acceleration; excellent handling and agility; broad range of available features and customization options

Cons: Steep prices get even steeper as options are added; ride quality gets stiffer with available 21-inch wheels; so-so cargo room

CG Says: The 2021 Porsche Macan now has standard Apple CarPlay functionality on all models, but is otherwise unchanged. The Macan was freshened for 2019 with revised styling and some suspension tweaks. The base model is powered by a turbocharged 248-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The midrange S model has a 348-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. The GTS has a 375-horsepower twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 and the high-performance Turbo has a 434-hp version of the twin-turbo six. All engines are paired with Porsche’s PDK 7-speed automated-manual transmission and all-wheel drive is standard. The Macan is essentially a junior version of the Porsche Cayenne, and it shares some of its basic structure with the Audi Q5. Available features include a variety of on-road and off-road performance equipment, such as Active Suspension Management, launch control, summer performance tires, torque-vectoring rear differential, hill-descent control, and air suspension (which can raise the ride height to 9.1 inches for off-roading). Naturally, plenty of luxury gear is available as well, including a 16-speaker Burmester audio system, panoramic sunroof, 18-way power front seats, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, and adaptive headlights. Available safety features include lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, front and rear park assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Macan is among the quickest, most athletic vehicle in the premium compact SUV class. Its exceptional performance comes at exceptional prices, but this compact hauler does the Porsche name proud.