petrolhedonist

Technical Triumph, Commercial Gamble

Porsche has axed petrol from its best-seller entirely—a proper gamble when global EV sales are softening and Taycan numbers have halved. The all-electric Macan starts at $128,400 before on-roads, roughly $33K north of the outgoing four-pot. That’s Audi Q6 e-tron money, or a Polestar 4 with decent change left over. The Macan 4 at $134,400 is the pick—300kW, all-paw traction, 613km claimed range. Stuttgart’s betting the farm here.

On the road? Despite tipping 2.3 tonnes, this thing defies physics—planted through corners, steering that actually talks back, and genuine Porsche DNA intact. The 800V architecture (theoretically) means 10–80% charge in 21 minutes flat. Inside? The cabin’s finally caught up with the badge. Android Automotive runs the 12.6-inch curved display with proper snap, and that AR head-up display projecting across 87 inches is genuinely useful, not gimmicky. Materials are plush throughout. To run? Three-year warranty is stingy—rivals offer five. No capped servicing either; expect $700–$1,750 per visit depending on your Porsche Centre. The gotcha? That coupe roofline murders rear headroom for anyone over six foot, the rear seats don’t slide or recline, and the artificial engine sound is pure PlayStation nonsense.

Who needs this? Driving enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on dynamics, even in a family SUV. If fast-charging convenience and that crest on the bonnet matter more than outright value, this delivers in spades. Skip it if the $33K premium over old model prices you out, if rear-seat flexibility is non-negotiable, or if you’re simply not ready to go electric yet.

The verdict: 🟡 Test drive worthy