After over a year of anticipation, Porsche finally unveiled the Macan SUV in front of crowds at the LA Auto Show. The Macan is the first Porsche model to break into the compact SUV segment and is poised to set new standards in the field of driving dynamics and enjoyment – on both paved streets uneven terrain. The Macan combines the typical handling characteristics that Porsche is known for, which should provide for an exciting new SUV experience.

Many of the design elements have been taken from other Porsche sportscars and enhanced for the Macan, making it clear to see from the very first glance that the Porsche Macan heralds the first sportscar in the compact SUV segment.

The Macan is produced at the company's Leipzig plant, where Porsche has invested 500 million euro and established an entire production line there. The line is set to produce up to 50,000 vehicles per year.

Three models comprise the Macan product range at market launch. The base Macan is equipped with a 3.0-litre V6 bi-turbo engine delivering 340 bhp (250 kW) and also features an active all-wheel drive system and seven-speed double-clutch transmission. The Macan S Diesel is the economical long-distance runner of the three Macan models. Its 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine achieves fuel consumption figures of between just 6.3 and 6.1 litres/100 km and accelerates from 0 to 100 km in just 6.3 seconds thanks to its 258 hp engine. The Macan Turbo is the top model in the Macan line, and is set to be the most powerful vehicle in the compact SUV segment. The 3.6-litre V6 bi-turbo engine (which is being used in a Porsche model for the very first time), achieves an unrivalled 400 hp and catapults the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. With the Sport Chrono package fitted, it is even possible to achieve such a speed in 4.6 seconds. Top speed is rated at 266 km/h with fuel consumption figures of between 9.2 and 8.9 litres/100 km. The highly-touted PDK automatic transmission will come standard on all models.

The all-new Macan will utilize a number of drive and performance features, including active all-wheel drive and traction management, an off-road and standard sport mode, as well as an optional air-suspension package, Sport-Chrono package and either halogen or LED headlamps, among others. The vehicles will be available late in Q1 2014.