Subcompact Luxury: 2023 Porsche Macan GTS Review
If you're looking for a subcompact luxury SUV that offers both thrilling performance and practical utility, you might want to check out the 2023 Porsche Macan GTS. This is the top-of-the-line version of the Macan, which has been updated for 2023 with a new T trim and some minor styling tweaks. The GTS stands out with its sporty design, powerful engine, and agile handling.
The heart of the Macan GTS is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that produces 434 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system that can distribute power to each wheel as needed. The result is a blistering acceleration that can launch the Macan GTS from zero to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, according to Car and Driver. That's faster than some of its rivals, such as the BMW X3 M and the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio.
But the Macan GTS is not just about straight-line speed. It also delivers a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads, thanks to its precise steering, responsive brakes, and adaptive suspension. The Macan GTS comes standard with the Sport Chrono package, which adds a sport exhaust system, a sport mode button, and a launch control feature. You can also opt for the optional air suspension, which can lower or raise the ride height depending on the driving situation.
The Macan GTS also offers a comfortable and luxurious cabin that can accommodate up to five passengers. The front seats are heated and ventilated, and feature 14-way power adjustment and memory settings. The rear seats are also heated, but they might feel a bit cramped for taller riders. The cargo space is decent for this class, with 17.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 52.9 cubic feet with them folded.
The Macan GTS comes with a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi hotspot. The system is easy to use and has crisp graphics, but it lacks some physical buttons for quick access to common functions. The sound quality is excellent, thanks to a 14-speaker Bose sound system that's part of the Premium Plus package.
The Macan GTS also comes with several advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system.
The 2023 Porsche Macan GTS starts at $84,350, which is quite steep for a subcompact luxury SUV. However, if you're willing to pay for the Porsche badge and the exhilarating performance, you'll find that the Macan GTS is one of the most fun-to-drive SUVs on the market.
