2020 Porsche Macan GTS
Overview
Some SUVs are built for practicality and others for luxury, but the 2020 Porsche Macan GTS is the rare one that’s purpose-built for driving fun. Sure, it has a rear cargo area and a back seat just like other compact crossovers, but it’s the only one that draws from Porsche’s rich history of sports cars to inspire its driver to push things to the limit. A twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 puts out 375 horsepower, and the Macan’s crisp steering and well-tuned chassis are perfect partners to the engine’s enthusiasm. The regular Macan (which we review separately) is similarly fun to drive, but the GTS model’s added performance and sportier styling set it apart from its four-cylinder stablemates; it feels more like a sports sedan than an SUV. We like the Macan GTS so much that we included it in our 2020 10Best list and gave it an Editors’ Choice award.
What’s New for 2020?
The Macan GTS returns to the Porsche SUV lineup this year after sitting out the 2019 model year. The performance-oriented GTS is motivated by a feisty turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 from the Macan Turbo model that’s been de-tuned to 375 horsepower.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The Macan GTS comes well-equipped with performance goodies right out of the gate, but we think the SUV’s luxury is a bit lacking. So, we’d 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
Although the base Macan can be had with a turbocharged four-cylinder, going with the performance-oriented GTS unlocks a much more powerful twin-turbo V-6. The engine makes 375 horsepower, which helped the Macan GTS deliver an impressive 3.9-second 60-mph time at our test track. Several rivals offer even more power, including the Mercedes-AMG GLC63 which comes with a 469-hp turbocharged V-8. Despite the disadvantage in power, though, the Macan GTS feels like the more accomplished of the two thanks to its crisper handling and more communicative helm. If you’re looking for maximum power and the same cornering agility, Porsche will happily sell you an example of the more expensive Macan Turbo, which we review separately.
More on the Macan GTS SUV
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Macan GTS carries EPA fuel economy estimates of 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway but during our 75-mph highway fuel economy test we recorded an impressive 27 mpg. For more information about the Macan GTS’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
While entry-level Macans are a bit too spartan for their price, the GTS model comes with more niceties such as leather upholstery, aluminum trim, and heated front seats. Still, those seeking an SUV with a plusher 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 hold isn’t as large as some of its rivals, but when has buying a Porsche ever been a rational choice? We fit six carry-on bags in the cargo bay and 16 with the rear seats folded, which should be enough for most people.
The Car and Driver Difference
Infotainment and Connectivity
Porsche’s infotainment system can be had with all manner of high-tech features, including the new-for-2020 wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity and wireless device charging. But, as with nearly everything on the Macan’s equipment list, enjoying those features will cost you. USB ports and 12-volt outlets are sprinkled throughout the cabin, so driver and passengers alike should be able to keep their devices fully charged. With the standard mobile Wi-Fi package onboard, the family data plan might be able to escape a road trip unscathed, too.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Macan GTS can be had with plenty of modern driver-assistance features, but very few are standard fare. The Macan GTS can be had with a wide array of driver-assistance technology, but almost none of it is standard. Key safety features include:
Standard lane-departure warning Available automated emergency braking Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Porsche’s warranty coverage is good but not great. The BMW X3 M and the Jaguar F-Pace SVR offer greater coverage in certain areas.
Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
Specifications
Specifications
2020 Porsche Macan GTS
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE AS TESTED
$98,160 (base price: $72,650)
ENGINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement
177 in3, 2894 cm3
Power
375 hp @ 6700 rpm
Torque
383 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm
TRANSMISSION
7-speed dual-clutch automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): multilink/multilink
Brakes (F/R): 15.4-in vented, tungsten-carbide-coated disc/14.0-in vented, tungsten-carbide-coated disc
Tires: Michelin Latitude Sport 3, F: 265/40R-21 101Y N2 R: 295/35R-21 103Y N2
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 110.6 in
Length: 184.5 in
Width: 76.1 in
Height: 63.0 in
Passenger volume: 96 ft3
Cargo volume: 18 ft3
Curb weight: 4468 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 3.9 sec
100 mph: 10.8 sec
130 mph: 20.5 sec
150 mph: 33.4 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 4.9 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 2.7 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 3.6 sec
1/4 mile: 12.6 sec @ 107 mph
Top speed (mfr’s claim): 162 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 155 ft
Braking, 100–0 mph: 306 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.94 g
Standing-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.2 sec.
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 20 mpg
75-mph highway driving: 27 mpg
Highway range: 530 miles
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 19/17/22 mpg
More Features and Specs
