The letter T, which stands for ‘Touring’, has represented a unique form of dynamic driving at Porsche since the 1960s. The Touring badge identifies models that offer an authentic driving experience; the two-litre, four-cylinder turbo engine of the Macan T combines great agility, low weight and a compact design in a package that offers an ideal balance of weight and performance.

Compared to the 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine in the Macan S and GTS models, the powertrain in the Macan T weighs 129lbs less on the front axle, which gives the vehicle particularly nimble handling and optimal cornering ability.

The engine in the Macan T produces 261hp and 295lb-ft of torque, coupled with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission (PDK) and the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive system, which provides a precise distribution of torque and responsive acceleration in all driving situations.

The Sport Chrono Package, which includes both the mode switch and Sport Response button on the steering wheel, is fitted as standard on the Macan T, helping it accelerate from 0 to 60mph in 5.8 seconds and reach a top track speed of 144mph.

This latest addition to the impressive Porsche line up features the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard. And the PTM has been adapted and specifically tuned with a bias of power distribution to the rear axle to help the Macan T accelerate out of corners assertively.

When equipped with the optional adaptive air suspension with PASM, the Macan T is fitted with model-specific anti-roll bars that have been stiffened to further decrease body roll and increase handling sharpness of the vehicle. Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+), which has been adapted to agile characteristics of the T model, can also be added as an option.

Design elements painted in agate grey metallic on the front, side and rear of the Macan T, differentiate the vehicle from others in the range. The exclusive colour features on the front trim, exterior mirrors, side blades, roof spoiler and rear logos. Sport tailpipes and side window surrounds in high gloss black are standard and the side blades feature the Macan T logo in black.

A set of 20-inch Macan S design wheels, available exclusively on the T, and one size up from the wheels on the regular Macan, come as standard, and there is a choice of 13 colours for the exterior.

The interior of the Macan T has its own distinct ambiance to underscore the driving enthusiast-focused nature of the vehicle, including exclusive upholstery on the eight-way electrically adjustable heated sports seats. Standard interior equipment features a multifunction heated GT sport steering wheel, the Sport Chrono stopwatch on the dashboard, and door sill guards with an embossed Macan T logo. Along with the many special additions, there is the new centre console with haptic touch elements, a larger open storage compartment, standard front heated seats, and a shorter gear lever.

Words: Eduardo Costa