Should you buy one?

If you’re shopping for a posh electric SUV, the Porsche Macan is a safe bet. It’s obvious the lessons the company learned from the Taycan have been poured into the car – and it’s produced an even more polished result. So, while it might be Porsche’s first crack at an electric SUV, it’s an impressive statement.

However, having now driven a four-wheel drive air sprung car back-to-back with an entry-level rear-wheel drive steel sprung model, we’re not sure the most expensive versions of the car are worth it. The cheapest model is more settled, more comfortable, more fun in the corners and plenty fast enough for what it needs to be.

Our advice is to swerve the four-wheel drive versions and tip some of the money you’ll save into personalising your car. Get some snazzy leather trim, a flash paint job and the passenger touchscreen – and reap the benefits of the extra range. Indeed, the rear-wheel drive car we tried returned more than 4.0 miles per kWh, while our 4S loaner on the same route could only manage 2.8.

That aside, whichever version of the Macan you opt for, you don’t need to make excuses for it. It’s a well-equipped, practical and fast electric SUV that, apart from the four-wheel drive models’ average battery efficiency, makes very few compromises. If you have the means to buy one, we’re sure you’ll enjoy owning it.

What we like

The way it drives, the build quality, the simplicity of its tech, the performance and how well it rides on its standard 20-inch alloy wheels. It also has plenty of storage cubbies, ample passenger space and support for super-fast 270kW DC rapid charging.

What we don’t like

The Macan’s air suspension is clever, but probably a little unnecessary given its hefty premium. Ride quality also takes a hit on the biggest 22-inch alloys, and it gets worse when you compound it with Porsche’s Sport Plus driving mode. That coupe-ish roofline also nibbles into boot space.