Which used Porsche Macan should you buy?

The Porsche Macan was launched in 2013, with significant updates made in 2018 and further revisions in 2021. As well as styling upgrades and changes to engine specifications, fuel economy and performance, the Porsche Macan has also been subject to various media system updates throughout its life.

Broadly speaking, the newer the Porsche Macan, the more sophisticated its media systems will be.

A range of six-cylinder engines were available from launch with a 3.0-litre 345PS petrol powering the Porsche Macan S and a 3.6-litre unit powering the top-spec Porsche Macan Turbo model with 406PS (later upped to 446PS with a new 2.9-litre engine). From 2015, a more driver-focused Porsche Macan GTS model was slotted in between the Porsche Macan S and the Porsche Macan Turbo.

The most sensible of the line-up is probably the 3.0-litre Porsche Macan Diesel S. This offers a punchy-enough 262PS, but also the possibility of around 45mpg fuel economy with relaxed driving, but it was discontinued in 2019. The most recent addition to the range is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder entry-level model, simply badged Porsche Macan with 248PS.

All Porsche Macans are fitted with four-wheel-drive, with power being transferred through a seven-speed PDK automatic gearbox.

Read our full Porsche Macan review

What used Porsche Macan trim levels are available?

The trim levels you get on the Porsche Macan are dependent to a large extent on the engine option a car is fitted with.

The range stretches from the basic Porsche Macan right up to the mighty Porsche Macan Turbo, meaning there is a model to suit all needs.

Porsche Macan S variants tend to be the most popular on the used market, with widespread availability.

Porsche Macan

This entry-level Porsche Macan has only been available since the car’s update in 2018. Power comes from a Volkswagen-sourced 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with 248PS – although models from 2021 onwards get a little extra horsepower.

As a result, the basic Porsche Macan is quick, but not as sporty as the more powerful options below. Among its features are:

• LED headlights
• LED rear lights
• 11-inch touchscreen media system
• Eight-way adjustable electric seats with Alcantara
• Dual-zone climate control

Porsche Macan S

The Porsche Macan S is the first rung on the six-cylinder engine ladder (discounting the diesel-engined version), with this type of engine offering a more sporty note than the smaller unit in the entry-level Porsche Macan. Key differences over the most basic models include:

• Styling tweaks
• 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine
• 345PS total output

Porsche Macan Diesel S

While diesel engines traditionally prioritise fuel economy over performance, the strong engine in the Porsche Macan Diesel S suits the car well, punching it up to speed effortlessly. As a result, if you do a lot of miles and would value a good blend of efficiency and power, it’s the ideal Porsche Macan to go for.

• 262PS six-cylinder diesel engine
• Capable of 44mpg fuel economy
• Reasonable running costs

Porsche Macan GTS

Launched in 2015, the Porsche Macan GTS is designed to be the go-to model in the range for the keenest drivers. If you like the idea of a high SUV driving position and family car-practicality, in something that offers the driving feel of a sports car, this is one of the best options in the Porsche Macan range. Highlights over the Porsche Macan S include:

• More power
• Better brakes
• Sports exhaust
• 20-inch alloys to echo the look of the Porsche RS Spyder racing car

Porsche Macan Turbo

The Porsche Macan Turbo model sits at the top of the tree. Power comes from a 3.6-litre engine in earlier cars, though later models get a downsized – but more powerful – 2.9-litre unit. Both of these offer serious muscle, making the Porsche Macan a very quick car. Among its highlights are:

• Further styling tweaks
• Bigger alloy wheels
• Adaptive sport seats
• Bi-xenon headlights (pre-2018 models)
• LED headlights (post-2018 models)

Is a used Porsche Macan a good buy?

Following success with the Porsche Cayenne large SUV, the German brand wanted to capitalise with a smaller, even more sporty SUV. The result was the Porsche Macan, and it too has proven very popular.

A rival for cars such as the BMW X3 and Italy’s Alfa Romeo Stelvio, it combines Porsche’s traditional sporty driving experience with the high-riding driving position and spacious interior of an SUV, but at a lower price point than with the Porsche Cayenne. 

The model you choose will be determined by what you want your Porsche Macan to deliver. If you really enjoy driving, the Porsche Macan GTS makes a great, engaging choice. A more rounded approach is offered by the Porsche Macan Diesel S, with its respectable fuel economy.