Porsche has slotted a new offering in between the entry-level and S derivatives of its updated executive SUV range. Although the new Macan T isn’t punchier than the entry-level 2.0-litre version, it comes with a lowered suspension, a distinctive exterior package and notably more standard specification.

The history books (okay, a Google search) will tell you that since the launch of the 911 T in 1968,Porsche has offered T variants in its 911 and, more recently, 718 models. The T (for Touring) “identifies models that offer an especially authentic driving experience thanks to precise tuning, exclusive equipment and efficient engines”, Porsche says.

The new Macan T is the first four-door Porsche to bear the T designation and although its engine develops no more than the entry-level Macan’s 195kW and 400Nm, the newcomer’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol engine, which is again paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (PDK), does weigh 58.8 kg less than the 2.9-litre bi-turbo V6 motor in the Macan S and GTS.

But so does the base Macan’s motor… So much for lightness and special engine tuning – there really isn’t any to speak off. However, the Macan T, which retails for R1 190 000, which includesa 3-year/100 000 km Driveplan, does offer quite a bit more standard kit thanits Macan sibling (R1 100 000, with the same Driveplan). The former, for example, features the Sport Chrono Package as standard, which should see the new derivative use its Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel-drive system to accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 6.2 secand go on to a 232-kph top speed.

The Macan T’s steel suspension is aidedby Porsche Active Suspension Management, replete with stiffer anti-roll bars at the front and a ride height that has been lowered by 15 mm. The Porsche Traction Management is further said to have been tuned to endow the new derivative with rear-biased handling characteristics.

Adaptive air suspension, which lowers the body by a further 10 mm (a new option for four-cylinder Macans) and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) are optional.

In terms of kerb appeal, the Macan T can be differentiated from its siblings by virtue of its Agate Grey Metallic-coloured front embellishments, exterior mirrors, side blades, roof spoiler and logos on the rear. The sports tailpipes and side window trims are finished in high-gloss black, the side blades feature “Macan T” logos (in black) and, to round things off, 20-inch dark titanium alloy wheels are fitted.

The Macan T also benefits from the interior updates that were introduced as part of the range’s recent facelift, which was launched in Mzansi last year. Like its siblings, the newcomer features a touch-sensitive centre console and the updated Porsche Communication Management system with a 10.9-inch touchscreen interface, replete with integral navigationand Apple CarPlay compatibility.

Meanwhile, the Macan T has standard 8-way electrically adjustable and heated sports seats that are trimmed in black leather and their headrests each feature an embossed Porsche crest. Decorative silver stitching features on the seats, headrests and ‘wheel and the centres of the front seats and the outer rear seats canbe specified with a Sport-Tex Stripe pattern (as part of the Macan T interior package). Other standard equipment includes a multifunction – and heated – sports steering wheel, dash-mounted Sport Chrono stopwatch, black aluminium scuff plates with Macan T logos.

Macan T price in South Africa

Porsche South Africa says that the Macan T (R1 190 000, which includesa 3 year/100 000 km Driveplan) is available for order now, with deliveries scheduled to begin in June 2022. The Macan T’s rivals include the Audi Q3 Sportback45TFSI quattro S line, BMW X3SDrive20i M Sport and the Alfa Romeo Stelvio2.0T Super Q4.

New Porsche Macan Specs & Prices in South Africa

Related content:

Porsche Macan (2021) Launch Review

Audi Q5 Sportback (2021) Review

BMW X3 M40i: A Real-World Review

Alfa Romeo Giulia & Stelvio (2021) Launch Review