Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Cars
  3. Legacy Archives

So many choices! Porsche Macan to offer a turbo V6, diesel turbo V6, or larger turbo V6

Add as a preferred source on Google

If you were hoping for a V6-powered Porsche Macan, you’re in luck.

Late last month I wagered that Porsche planned at least two variants of the forthcoming 2015 Macan: a twin-turbo V6 and a diesel. Now we’ve learned, thanks to Chinese automotive website Autohome (by way of Carscoops), that the miraculous little Macan will be offered in three models: Macan S; Macan S Diesel; and Macan Turbo.

Recommended Videos

The entry-level Macan S will be powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 producing 340 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. If those power numbers sound familiar, they should. This engine is likely based upon the slightly more powerful motor that propels the Audi SQ5. Under the hood of the Macan S, the engine will be good for a 0-62 mph time of 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 158 mph.

The Macan S Diesel, which we hope very much that will see here in the U.S., will get a diesel turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 making 258 hp and 428 lb-ft. Not only is torque good for pulling stumps from the stubborn, frozen earth, it’s also good for 0-62 mph in 6.2 seconds. While the diesel might be slowest, it’ll certainly get the best fuel economy.

Porsche macan leaked specs2
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Last – and certainly not least – we have the Macan Turbo. Just as I had speculated, this top-ender will be driven by the all-new, Porsche-exclusive twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6, derived from the 4.8-liter V8. It’ll make an impressive 400 hp and 406 lb-ft. and thrust the Macan Turbo to 62 mph from a dead standstill in 4.8 seconds.

Sure, the Macan might not be the fastest Porsche, but it’ll certainly be one of the best selling. Four-door Porsche’s have claimed sales dominance over the two-door models in recent years. And the Macan’s ability to draw in buyers who might have otherwise shopped a BMW X3, Audi SQ5, or Infiniti QX70 (formerly FX37) will likely be staggering.

While the Macan might only have three models at the initial launch, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a Hybrid model or plug-in hybrid model in the future.

Remember, these are leaks so the information might be off. We’ll know for sure soon, though, as the Macan sees its global debut at the 2013 LA Auto Show. We’ll be on the show floor snapping live pictures and video so be sure to check back next week for the official reports.

(Secondary photo credit: Autohome)

Nick Jaynes
Former Automotive Editor
Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…
iOS 26.4 adds ChatGPT to you car’s infotainment screen
Apple's iOS 26.4 brings ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude to your car's screen, adds calming ambient music widgets, and previews the in-car video future that drivers have been waiting for.
CarPlay shown in March 2025.

Apple rolled out iOS 26.4 recently, and while your iPhone got several upgrades, CarPlay quietly had one of its best days in years. The latest iPhone updates bring two meaningful features that can change the way you use CarPlay on your car’s infotainment screen. 

Would you use ChatGPT while driving?

Read more
Sony and Honda’s electric car dream with Afeela series is officially dead 
Sony Honda Mobility has shelved the Afeela 1 and its follow-up, and the EV market has another high-profile casualty.
Machine, Wheel, Adult

Sony and Honda’s shared dream of launching an electric car has just come to an end. The joint venture between the two brands — Sony Honda Mobility — has just announced that plans for the upcoming Afeela 1 electric car have been shelved. Additionally, the follow-up model has been nixed from the roadmap. 

But why did the Afeela go?

Read more
This AI checks if your driving habits signal crash risk
Researchers say eye tracking, heart rate, and personality data can flag risk early.
Person, Wristwatch, Car

A new AI model is taking aim at a question most drivers don’t ask soon enough. How likely are you to crash before you even start the engine?

The system looks at how you behave behind the wheel, pulling in signals like eye movement, heart rate, and personality traits to flag warning patterns early. Instead of waiting for real-world mistakes, it relies on simulated driving tests to surface behaviors linked to dangerous outcomes.

Read more