OHLALA HAD A POWERFUL AND PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE IN YET ANOTHER NEAR PERFECTLY PRODUCED PORSCHE, THE NEW MACAN 4.
OHLALA was recently invited by the team at Porsche Centre Bahrain to enjoy the manufacturer’s latest creation, the new Macan 4. Having been so impressed by our previous 12 Porsche test drives, we were most excited to see what this allelectric offering brought to the luxury mid-sized SUV table.
SPORTY EXTERIOR
We had heard whispers that the second-generation Macan was a serious upgrade from the first. The moment we laid eyes on Porsche’s latest creation, we could confirm these rumours.
Although the instantly recognisable Porsche proportions are still apparent in the new Macan, the upgrades to the front of the vehicle are evident. The large grille of the previous generation has been scaled down for the new model, making space for two large air intakes designed for cooling the batteries. A sizeable splitter in contrasting colouring sits under the grille, adding a further flourish of sportiness.
We noticed the redesigned front lights have been split into two parts. Firstly, the upper light units with four-point daytime running lights are now embedded in the wings of the flat front bonnet. The main headlight modules with optional matrix LED technology, now sit slightly lower in the front end.
Shifting our attention to the fancy flanks, we took in the characteristic Porsche flyline, effortlessly combining with the shallow-raked rear window. Muscular shoulders endow the luxury SUV with an athletic stance, whilst the frameless doors and trademark side blades in textured Lava Black deliver a dynamic-looking character. And 20-inch-high gloss black wheels further added to the vehicle’s road-ready demeanour.
Moving to the backend, we appreciated the adaptive rear spoiler and the horizontal lighting strip that runs the full width of the SUV. The Porsche logo now sits in the centre of the 3D light strip, moulded three-dimensionally like a glass sculpture. We also noticed a charging point on both sides of the rear, the right being an 11kW slow charger for home use and the left a faster one for up to 270kW using 800-volt tech.
LUXURIOUS INTERIOR
Slipping inside the seductive interior, we immediately felt at home in the plush environment, with the combination of the panoramic sunroof and large windows ensuring a light and airy feel inside the comfy cabin.
We found the cockpit to be the epitome of class, its width emphasised by an integrated black panel. High-end materials having been used on the door panels from top to bottom were another clear indication of an upmarket carrier.
We loved the LED lighting strip integrated into the finely shaped trim along the cockpit and doors. This fabulous feature is more than just ambient lighting; it is also a communication light. Depending on the situation, it provides either information or a warning. For example, it can function as a greeting tool or to warn the driver when a car is in a blind spot.
We soon noticed that the ventilated front seats had been lowered, the sloping design of the centre console accentuating their sporty positioning. And the rear offered extra legroom compared to the previous model.
Porsche has ensured the new Macan is not only performance-orientated but hugely practical thanks to its spacious configuration.
Electrifying the new generation has ensured far more room for stowing goods. The rear luggage compartment offers 540 litres of space, a capacity enlarged to 1,348 litres when the rear seating is folded flat. The ‘frunk’ under the bonnet provides an additional 84 litres.
“Porsche has ensured the new Macan is not only performance-orientated but hugely practical thanks to its spacious configuration.”
Further must-mention interior features include a compact steering wheel with excellent grip, a well-designed digital cluster, plenty of storage under the armrest, storage space under the centre console and two USB-C sockets.
INTUITIVE TECHNOLOGY & INFOTAINMENT
We were, thoroughly impressed by the tech in the new Macan. The second generation houses an instrument cluster with a 12.6-inch curved display, a 10.9-inch central display, a 10.9-inch passenger display, a head-up display with augmented reality technology and the aforementioned ambient communication light.
This Android-based system was very easy to navigate, with sharp graphics and no lagging. It is also wirelessly compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Porsche has noticeably upgraded the design of the Driver Experience, adding welcome animation, a more modern look and feel and further personalisation options, thanks to the new Themes app.
Further, this new-generation infotainment system includes Porsche Communication Management (PCM) as standard. The intelligent Voice Pilot feature executed our voice commands at super high speed, providing valuable assistance, including finding the correct route with optimal charging stops.
EXCEPTIONAL POWER, RANGE & ASSISTANCE
Finally, we were out on the tarmac en route to our test site. As we negotiated the busy streets of the city, we appreciated the smooth and quiet nature of the ride, loving how effortlessly we glided amongst the traffic.
The new Macan uses permanently excited synchronous electric motors (PSM) and 800-volt technology, with the electronic motors drawing their energy from a lithium-ion battery in the underbody. Once at our destination, we put this powertrain to the test.
As soon as the foot flattened the accelerator, we felt the responsive nature of the Macan 4, shooting from 0-100km/h in a very respectable 5.2 seconds.
Not too shabby for a mid-sized SUV. We achieved the electronically capped top speed of 220km/h without much effort. An intelligent control algorithm provided the appropriate emotive sound to suit the driving situation and the torque and speed of the electric motors.
With four driving modes, a sharp antilock braking system, steel spring suspension and an extensive array of other performance-enhancing systems, we always felt in complete control of this exciting driving experience.
Despite the sportiness of the Macan 4’s performance, we were surprised to learn that the SUV can travel for up to 612km on a single full charge. When the battery is low, it can be charged from 10% to 80% in a mere 21 minutes at a suitable fast charging station.
It came as no surprise that Porsche included a full suite of driver assistance and safety features. These include ParkAssist, Lane Keeping Assist, Intersection Assist, Cruise Control, Porsche Hill Control, Porsche Active Aerodynamics and much more.
OUR VERDICT
The new Macan 4 is a triumph for Porsche which has produced a fully electric SUV that provides style, comfort, performance, practicality and a whole lot of fun.
Ready to bring electric performance to life? This is your time. Drive home the Tycan or new Macan and enjoy exclusive privileges including an eight-year service package, four-year warranty and complimentary home charger. Applicable on EVs purchased before May 31, 2025.
For more information, please call Porsche Centre Bahrain on
1745 9911.
@porschecentrebahrain