Porsche Cayenne vs. Porsche Macan: what’s the difference?
Deciding between the Porsche Cayenne and Porsche Macan? Here's the difference between them and which is best for you
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Porsche wouldn’t be around today if it weren’t for the SUV.
It was in a spot of financial turmoil in the late ‘90s, and the Cayenne saved its bacon.
These days, the brand has another SUV on offer – the slightly smaller Macan, which is positioned as a hatchback-like crossover.
If you’re in the market for a luxury Porsche SUV but aren’t sure which to go for, then our guide will help guide you in the right direction.
Styling
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As the only two SUV models Porsche makes, the Cayenne and Macan look very similar next to each other.
With a similar headlight design and sporty bonnet creases, these are hard to tell apart.
One of the key differences can be found at the rear, with the Macan featuring a more rounded design and the Cayenne offering a flatter one to help accommodate the larger boot.
There are, of course, various model trims, so looks will vary depending on which one you choose. Go for the sportier Macan GTS and Cayenne Turbo GT and you’ll get more spoilers and a more aggressive front end.
What are they like to drive?
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When you get behind the wheel of either car, you’ll be surprised at the driving capabilities. These don’t drive like the heavy SUVs they appear to be, and instead offer a hot hatch-like experience.
This is thanks to some great engine options, Porsche’s famous direct steering, and firm (yet giving) suspension.
The Macan can be had with either a 2.0-litre or V6 petrol engine that produces up to 434hp and revs freely for an SUV.
As for the Cayenne, it can be had with either a V6 or V8, with a hybrid option on offer too. The V8 produces up to 650hp, which is mighty impressive for a 2,130kg SUV.
Both models can be had with diesel engines if you get a slightly older one.
Interior and technology
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Sit inside either car, and you’ll never want to leave. With plush leather seats, massive infotainment screens and great speakers, the Macan and Cayenne are ideal for anyone who drives lots of miles.
They both offer incredibly similar features, which include some useful ones such as power-adjustable seats, extended leather package, uprated Bose or Burmester speakers, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Whether you’ve got a large family with active kids or love a solo drive across the country, both models will give you the best and most comfortable experience imaginable for a good price.
Boot space and practicality
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Living with either car day-to-day is very easy thanks to large boots and plenty of cabin space. With the Cayenne having nearly eight additional cubic feet of cargo, you can store more sports kit or shopping in the back.
Its boot measures 772 litres, while the Macan has a 488-litre boot that’s still large enough for most people’s shopping trips and airport runs.
Both models can seat up to five people each, with the Cayenne offering more interior room as it’s wider and longer.
Safety and reliability
Porsche is renowned for being a reliable and safe brand, so we don’t have any concerns here.
In their most recent Euro NCAP crash tests, the Cayenne and Macan both scored five stars.
This is thanks to safety features such as lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking (AEB) and plenty of airbags.
As for reliability, both cars are made in the same factory in Stuttgart, Germany, so we have no reservations about the build quality.
Size and dimensions
Porsche Cayenne
Length: 4,918mm
Width: 1,983mm
Height: 1,696mm
Boot space: 772 litres
Porsche Macan
Length: 4,726mm
Width: 1,922mm
Height: 1,621mm
Boot space: 488 litres
Verdict: Porsche Cayenne vs. Porsche Macan: which should you buy?
If you’ve read our full comparison between the Cayenne and Macan and still can’t decide which one is for you, perhaps our short verdict will help guide you in the right direction.
We’d recommend opting for the Cayenne if you need the extra space for more passengers and luggage and like to sit higher up.
The Macan is a smaller, sportier model that’s great fun for the UK’s country roads, but both get great engines, solid reliability and state-of-the-art interior tech, making any journey a breeze.