2023 Porsche Macan T Review: Nimble Like a Golf GTI

Behind the wheel
As well as I know the model, or thought I did, the Macan T has changed my opinion of the crossover, especially when compared to the base model. The Macan T benefits from the same 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering 261 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque and the same 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, but here you feel like you driving a firm, hyper-honed sports car, especially when the Sport mode is engaged via a little dial on the steering wheel; it’s a feeling absent from the Macan “without the T”.

The powertrain, I should add, isn't a warrior like the one in higher-end Macan models, but it's sufficient for dynamic driving and, above all, it’s economical at the pump.

Meanwhile, when placed in Comfort mode, the SUV shows it can coddle occupants as well. At the risk of repeating myself, the T version is not ideal for driving on the more pockmarked of our Canadian roads in the sportier drive modes. On the highway, however, where it's generally smoother, the Macan T behaves like a heavier, less throaty Volkswagen Golf GTI.

Quieter than its V6-powered peers, the Macan T feels firmer, more athletic in its execution. Built for backcountry roads, the Macan T is not a speed merchant, but in the corners, it is (very) difficult to catch. The brakes, while not as powerful as on the GTS trim for example, do their job without grumbling.

I still have some reservations about the piano black finish inside the cabin, but apart from this detail that can sometimes blind front-row occupants, I have no real complaints about the environment. The driving position is perfect, while the execution overall is on par with other products from the brand, which is to say excellent.

Specifications sheet of 2023 Porsche Macan T

2023 Porsche Macan T, three-quarters rear | Photo: V.Aubé

The last word
Forced to choose between one of Porsche’s sports cars and this amazing cheetah-like SUV, I’d still go with any of the many variations of the 911 or of the 718 tandem, but that’s no criticism of the Macan, really. To get full benefit from the Macan's agility and concurrent practicality as an SUV, the Touring model is a great option.

We like

The race-minded appearance
The sporty handling
Overall quality

We like less

The firmness of the suspension (on our pockmarked roads)
The asking price (!)
The timid sound of the engine

The competition

Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Audi Q5 / Q5 Sportback
BMW X3 / X4
Cadillac XT4
Infiniti QX55
Land Rover Range Rover Evoque
Lexus NX
Lincoln Corsair
Mercedes-Benz GLC / GLC Coupe
Volvo XC60

2023 Porsche Macan T, rear | Photo: V.Aubé

Photos:V.Aubé

2023 Porsche Macan T pictures

See the complete Gallery