Porsche 911 R and new Macan

NEVER one to shy away from publicity, a fool’s errand given their stellar reputation, Porsche will be stealing the limelight once again as it debuts three cars on the North American circuit. 

First up will be the 911 R, described as a pure, unadulterated driving machine, which features a naturally-aspirated, 500 horsepower engine mounted in the rear. 

Next up is the 718 Boxster, which boasts extensive chassis enhancements and an all-new turbocharged, mid-mounted flat four-cylinder engine. Following protocol the 718 Boxster is powered by a 2.0 litre engine with 300 horsepower and the Boxster S has a 2.5 litre engine putting 350 horsepower at its disposal. 

The third car to make its debut is the Macan, featuring a highly efficient and sporty turbocharged 2.0 litre inline four-cylinder engine. 

The exclusive German brand is also increasing its range of compact SUVs with a new twist on the Macan. This follows the introduction of the recent Macan GTS, as well as the Macan S and Macan Turbo. 

As is standard among Porsche models, the Macan can transform its engine power into exquisite driving dynamics simply by using the active all-wheel drive with Porsche Traction Management (PTM), combined with agile suspension and precise steering.

Optional features include air suspension with load-levelling control and the PASM system with adaptive dampeners. The Macan is also the lightest SUV manufactured by Porsche weighing in at just 3,902 pounds. This enables especially agile handling. 

The inline-four engine operates with up to 14 PSI of boost pressure, direct injection, variable valve timing and charge-air cooling. It is especially geared towards being both fast and efficient.

Overtaking has never been made easier courtesy of 252 hp from 5,000 to 6,800 rpm and 273 pound-feet of torque available between 1,600 rpm and 4,500 rpm. 

Meanwhile, the VarioCam Plus technology ensures the intake and exhaust camshaft is adapted continually. 

The Macan’s turbocharged 2.0 litre engine is connected to a standard seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission boasting Auto Start Stop technology. 

The optional Sport Chrono Package allows an acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.1 seconds. Fuel consumption is very efficient with a rough improvement of up to 18 per cent over the Macan S. Top track speed is 142 mph.