2017 Porsche Macan (95B.1)

Engine specs, performance, and fuel economy

Porsche introduced a new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, codenamed the EA888, for the entry-level Macan in 2017. This Volkswagen-sourced engine was shared with the Audi Q5 but was optimized by Porsche engineers to make more power and achieve a meaner exhaust note for a sportier character. Producing 252 horsepower at 5,000-6,800 rpm and 273 pound-feet of torque from 1,600-4,500 rpm, the guise in the Macan produced 32 horsepower and 15 pound-feet more than the one in the Audi Q5. Power went to four wheels via a crisp shifting seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, but sadly, the manual transmission was not in the picture.

The turbo-four enabled the base Macan to sprint from 0-60 mph in a brisk 6.3 seconds (6.1 with the optional Sport Chrono Package) and hit a top speed of 142 mph. While these performance metrics weren’t sporty, the base Macan provided enough pep for most civil driving scenarios, from daily errands to touring. However, it was less fuel efficient than you expect from compact SUVs, with a rating of just 20 mpg (city) and 25 mpg (highway). The fuel range was decent, with 495 miles from a 19.8-gallon tank.

The Macan had its share of strengths and weaknesses compared to its rivals. For starters, the BMW X3 xDrive28i and Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic used a 2.0-liter engine. The one in the BMW churned 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet, which needed 6.2 seconds for 0-60 and had a top speed of 130 mph. On the other hand, the GLC 300 4Matic’s 241-horsepower engine did the job in 6.4 seconds and maxed at 130 mph.

While slower than the Porsche, rivals were more efficient. The X3 xDrive28i earned an EPA rating of 21 mpg (city) and 28 mpg (highway), offering a highway range of 497 miles. Mercedes’ GLC 300 4Matic was slightly more efficient with 22 mpg (city) and 28 mpg (highway), but it offered 487 highway miles with a 17.4-gallon tank.

Exterior design, features, and dimensions

As Porsche’s smallest and lightest SUV, the 2017 Macan brought the brand’s iconic design language to a more compact package. Slotting below the larger Cayenne, the Macan featured athletic proportions and distinctive Porsche styling cues. Its sculpted hood with lateral recesses evoked the design of the 918 Spyder hypercar.

Up front, the Macan sported a black grille flanked by bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights. Massive air intakes hinted at the crossover’s performance potential. LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus with iconic four-point lights were optional. In profile, the Macan showcased a sloping roofline, muscular fenders, and a graceful greenhouse.

At the rear, 3D LED taillights, an understated spoiler, and dual exhaust outlets emphasized Macan’s sporty character. An automatic rear spoiler helped reduce lift at speed. Optimized aerodynamics, including an active grille shutter, contributed to a slippery 0.36 drag coefficient.

The Macan rode on staggered 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-season tires, with larger 19-, 20- and 21-inch options available. If you’re considering larger wheels, it had a share of pros and cons. While the optional wheels added more spice and made the ride firmer because of the larger diameter, that’s where the optional PASM air suspension came to the rescue, providing a smoother ride quality.

While some critics felt the Macan looked too similar to the Audi Q5 with which it shared a platform, most agreed that Porsche successfully translated its design ethos to a smaller SUV. However, purists argued that a compact crossover diluted the brand’s heritage. The Macan’s sleek styling resonated with buyers seeking a practical Porsche. The Macan’s exterior design balanced sportiness and elegance, setting it apart in the crowded luxury SUV segment.

Exterior feature highlights

• Black grille with massive front-end intakes and active grille shutter

• Automatic projector headlamps with signature DRLS and auto-leveling

• Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs standard (PDLS Plus optional)

• Front fog lamps

• Rear features 3D LED taillights

• Automatic rear spoiler

• Power liftgate rear cargo access

• 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels

• All-season tires (summer tires optional)

• 19-21-inch wheels optional

• Metallic Paint - $690

• Tinted LED Taillights - $550

• Paint to Sample exterior color Metallic/non-metallic - $6,515

• Sport Exhaust System - $2,930

• Carbon Fiber Side Blades - $1,390

• Panoramic Roof System - $1,670

Interior design, comfort, and features

Porsche introduced a redesigned interior for the Macan that took cues from the larger Cayenne but put its twist on the layout. The cockpit was driver-focused, with an ascending center console that placed key controls within easy reach. High-quality materials and excellent fit-and-finish reflected Porsche’s exacting standards. Functionality was a key theme, with a broad center console flowing into the dashboard. This created a cockpit-like feel for the driver while maintaining a spaciousness for passengers. The base model featured piano black trim, while aluminum and carbon fiber accents were available on higher trims.

As a daily driver, the Macan excelled, offering a balance of sportiness and practicality. The cabin felt intimate yet airy, with good visibility and a commanding driving position. Controls were logically arranged and easy to use, except for some buttons on the center console being obscured by the gear selector.

Like its elder brother—the Cayenne, the Macan features a five-seater interior. Seating was comfortable and supportive, with standard eight-way power front seats upholstered in a mix of suede and Alcantara. Leather upholstery was optional. Buyers seeking more comfort and a sportier seating position could opt for 14-way power seats with memory and 18-way adaptive sport seats. Heated and ventilated seats were available, offering all-weather comfort. Optional heated rear seats promised comfort for the rear passengers.

The front seating space and the driving position were roomy and commanding. Rear seat space was adequate for adults, although taller passengers might find headroom tight due to the sloping roofline. With 17.7 cubic feet of default cargo space, the Macan was decent in practicality. Once folded, The rear seats exposed up to 53 cubic feet of total room, which couldn’t match the BMW X3’s practicality (27.6 cubic feet standard and 63.3 cubic feet total).

Interior feature highlights

• Piano black trim for the base model

• Aluminum or carbon-fiber trim available on higher trims

• 8-way power front seats with Alcantara seat centers

• Heated front and rear seats - $1,050

• Heated and ventilated front seats - $525/$660

• Natural Leather Interior - $4,910

• Heated Multifunction Sport Steering Wheel in Carbon Fiber/Dark Walnut/Whitewashed Oak - $615

• Leather Interior Package - $2,035

• Power Seats (14-Way) Incl. Memory Package - $1,710

• Adaptive Sport Seats (18-Way) - $2,080

• Brushed Aluminum Interior Package - $550

• Dark Walnut Interior Package - $550

• Whitewashed Oak Interior Package - $1,790

• Carbon Fiber Interior Package - $1,490

• Three-zone automatic climate control

How did the 2017 Porsche Macan drive?

Porsche’s compact crossover punched above its weight in the handling department, delivering the agility and poise expected of the brand. The Macan’s double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension provided a firm but compliant ride. Paired with the optional air suspension and PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management), it could be further optimized for comfort or sportiness at the touch of a button. Traction was abundant thanks to the active all-wheel drive system with Porsche Traction Management. If needed, the rear-biased setup could send up to 100 percent of torque to the front axle. Torque vectoring and an optional rear limited-slip differential further enhanced cornering prowess.

The steering feel was excellent for a crossover, with the electromechanical rack offering precise control and good feedback. The variable assist made low-speed maneuvering a breeze while firming up nicely at higher velocities. Porsche’s optional Power Steering Plus reduced effort at parking lot speeds. Braking performance was impressive, with 13.6-inch front and 13-inch rear discs clamped by four-piston front and single-piston rear calipers. The pedal was firm and easy to modulate. However, Porsche’s flagship ceramic composite brakes were unavailable on the base trim, so buyers looking for stronger brakes had to rely on the Macan S and GTS.

On winding roads, the Macan changed direction eagerly, with minimal body roll and good grip from the staggered 18-inch tires. The 110.5-inch wheelbase struck a nice balance between agility and stability. At 3,902 pounds, the Macan was lighter than its competitors, which gave it an edge in twisty roads and corners. However, the lighter curb weight also meant that it could feel twitchy when pushed hard.

Some critics felt the ride was too stiff, even in the softest setting, and that the Macan lacked the plushness of rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC. The large wheels also generated road noise on coarse surfaces. However, most agreed that the Macan delivered the best driving experience in its class, living up to Porsche’s high standards.

Infotainment and safety

Porsche equipped the 2017 Macan with a comprehensive suite of infotainment and safety technologies. The PCM (Porsche Communication Management) system served as the nerve center, featuring a seven-inch touchscreen, navigation, Apple CarPlay integration, and the Connect Plus module as standard. An eight-speaker audio system provided the soundtrack, with optional upgrades including a 14-speaker Bose surround sound system and a range-topping 16-speaker Burmester high-end audio package.

Rear seat entertainment options kept passengers engaged on long journeys. The available Porsche Rear Seat Entertainment and Rear Seat Entertainment Plus systems added dual 10.1-inch touchscreens, DVD players, and USB/SD card connectivity. A six-disc CD/DVD changer and a navigation module for PCM were also on the options list.

On the safety front, the Macan offered a reassuring array of driver assistance features. Lane Departure Warning and cruise control were standard, while Lane Change Assist, Lane Keep Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control with Porsche Active Safe were optional extras. The available Porsche Dynamic Light System optimized illumination based on driving conditions. ParkAssist, with Surround View, used cameras to provide a 360-degree view around the vehicle, making tight maneuvers easier.

Problems and reliability

As Porsche’s entry-level crossover, the Macan (95B.1) upheld the brand’s reputation for dependability. The 2017 model earned an overall rating of 87 out of 100 from J.D. Power, outmatching the X3’s 83/100 overall score. However, this compact luxury SUV was not immune to issues that could lead to costly repairs.

One common problem area was the 2.0-liter turbocharged EA888 inline-four engine in the base model. Some owners reported excessive oil consumption, which could potentially lead to engine damage if not monitored closely. The high-pressure fuel pump and ignition coils were also prone to failure, causing misfires and rough running. The seven-speed PDK dual-clutch unit was reliable but suffered from rough shifting or hesitation due to mechatronic unit faults. The transfer case was another weak point, with wear causing vibrations during acceleration or tight low-speed turns. Porsche extended the warranty on this component to address the issue.

Electrical issues plagued some examples, with glitches affecting the PCM infotainment system, backup camera, and power mirrors. The air suspension, when equipped, was prone to leaks and costly failures. While the Macan was generally well-made, its Porsche pedigree meant that repairs could be expensive. For example, a new PDK transmission could cost upwards of $15,000, while a failed air suspension compressor might run $4,000 to replace.

Prospective buyers should budget for potentially steep maintenance costs and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a Porsche specialist. Opting for an extended warranty or CPO example with a comprehensive service history may provide added peace of mind. As with any used luxury car, avoid suspiciously cheap deals, as they may hide a troubled past.

Should you buy a used 2017 Porsche Macan?

The 2017 Porsche Macan brought the brand’s sports car DNA to the compact luxury SUV segment. Its sharp handling, potent engines, and premium interior made it a compelling choice for enthusiasts. However, rivals like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC provided more passenger and cargo space and smoother rides.

While the base Macan’s turbo-four was lively, the X3 xDrive28i and GLC300 offered respectable performance for less money. Stepping up to the Macan S, GTS, or Turbo brought great speed and hefty price tags. The Macan’s sloping roofline also compromised rear headroom compared to boxier competitors.

As a used proposition, the first-gen Macan required careful consideration. Its Porsche pedigree meant steep maintenance costs, and some examples suffered from expensive issues like transfer case leaks and air suspension failures. Thorough inspections and extended warranties were advisable. For buyers prioritizing driving dynamics above all else, a well-maintained Macan could be rewarding, however, for those seeking maximum practicality from a Porsche, the Cayenne is a better fit.

FAQs

What engine powers the base 2017 Porsche Macan?

A: The 2017 Macan base is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 252 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque.

How quick is the base Macan?

With the standard seven-speed PDK transmission, the base Macan accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds or 6.1 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. Its top speed is 142 mph.

What are some key options available for the base Macan?

Notable options include the Sport Chrono Package, air suspension with PASM, Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, a panoramic roof, and a Burmester surround sound system.

How much is the 2017 Porsche Macan?

The 2017 Porsche Macan started at $47,500 when new. A used example in 2024 generally ranges between $18,000 and $35,000, depending on the mileage, condition, and options included.

What are the alternatives to the 2017 Porsche Macan?

The Porsche Macan competes with the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.