The start-stop button is in its familiar place to the left of the instrument cluster. The Porsche crest is still centred on the thin steering wheel. The precise stitching and premium materials adorn the cabin. But something’s different when I turn the car on; it’s quiet. There are no exhaust rumblings, no engine growl.
As I flick the gear selector paddle into drive and traverse Toronto, there’s one thing that has not changed: Porsche’s exceptional driving dynamics … even with batteries replacing gasoline.
Porsche’s best-selling nameplate in Canada and worldwide is the latest model to be offered as all-electric. This is an important move for Porsche as it’s their first mainstream electrified offering. (The Taycan drives a niche lane.)
On paper, the figures are impressive but does the ink match real-world impressions?
Behind the wheel, the famously familiar Porsche driving experience carries forward with superb handling, cornering and that unmistakable athletic feel.
Even sans engine, the Macan Electric delivers an on-road experience that’s strikingly similar to its combustion counterpart.
Yes, there’s the exhilarating instant torque, but, for nearly all everyday conditions, the Macan Electric brings a balanced, comfortable drive that can be exhilarating when called upon.
Simply put, it’s still a Porsche, regardless of what propels it.
The range of up to 495 km on the Macan 4 is practical, and, during my test week in frigid February, there wasn’t excessive range depletion compared to other EVs I’ve tested. Plus, it’s reasonably likely that these EV owners have an at-home Level 2 charger to reduce their reliance on public charging stations and keep them rolling longer.
Inside, there are easily recognizable layouts and controls, complete with a high-resolution digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. The majority of the climate functions are on a separate panel, which is good. The seats are comfortable, outward sightlines clear and the upscale luxury cabin just might make you forget, if only for a moment, that there are batteries in place of a fuel tank.
Maintaining the interior functionality and familiarity is smart as it strengthens this EV’s draw. Increasing its utilitarian appeal is the front trunk, which can store some grocery bags, emergency kit or the home charging cable provided.
Practicality comes with fast charging speeds of up to 270 kW via a Level 3 charger, bringing you from 10 per cent to 80per cent in 21 minutes. With a Level 2 charge, it can reach up to 135 kW, slightly increasing that 10-to-80-per-cent wait to 33 minutes.
Porsche has decided to offer both gas and electric models for 2025, with four EV trims, which gives consumers enough choice.
There are oh-so slight exterior differences between gas and electric, mainly the absence of tailpipes and grille, and the word “electric” on the front fenders. This familiar shape links the two models, which is appealing.
As good as the Macan Electric is, there are changes ahead.
In 2022, Porsche projected EVs would account for a whopping 80 per cent of all sales by 2030.
The recent elimination of the federal EV rebate won’t affect all potential buyers but it may make some pause.
Consumers are fickle. Customers accounted for an increase of 10 per cent in sales of gasoline-powered 718s before the model goes electric and sales of the Taycan EV halved in the first nine months of 2024 over 2023.
Porsche is re-evaluating its EV goals and there could be more combustion engines, plug-in hybrids and synthetic eFuels (a type of blended fuel) in the mix.
The Macan EV’s release came with high expectations and Porsche has delivered well in maintaining its stellar driving dynamics and its familiar design, and adding speedy charging, to ensure everyday practicality.
In an evolving automotive landscape, consumers want good choices for sure, but they prefer excellent ones. The2025 Porsche Macan 4 Electric is one.
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