Porsche Macan Preview- 2

Official distributor Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP) previewed the Porsche Macan SUV to the media this morning at Porsche Centre Damansara.

The Macan, smaller sibling of the successful Cayenne SUV, made its world debut late last year at the LA Auto Show, so it hasn't taken too long to arrive. The Macan will be launched in the fourth quarter of this year in Malaysia, possibly in September. First deliveries will start at the same time.

Four variants of the "first sportscar in the compact SUV segment" will be available in Malaysia, including the entry-level four-cylinder version announced last month. The 2.0 litre turbo four with 237 hp and 350 Nm (from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm) will do 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 223 km/h. Not too shabby, and it returns 7.2 litres per 100 km in the NEDC combined cycle.

Porsche Macan Preview- 34

Based on our live pics from Auto China 2014, the base Macan doesn't look very pared down compared to pricier versions, and it should prove popular with urbanites who want Porsche style but don't need six-cylinder performance. In any case, there are plenty of options to dress it up. Estimated price is RM450k.

One level up and you're looking at the Macan S and Macan S Diesel. The petrol 3.0 V6 biturbo does 340 hp/460 Nm, 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds (5.2 with Sport Chrono package) and 254 km/h max.

The 3.0 V6 single turbo diesel, on the other hand, boasts 245 hp/580 Nm, 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds (6.1 with Sport Chrono), 230 km/h max and NEDC fuel consumption of just 6.3 to 6.1 litres per 100 km, making it the most efficient Macan. Estimated prices are RM560k for the S and RM550k for the S Diesel.

Porsche Macan Preview- 17

For those who want the ultimate Macan, there's the Macan Turbo, as seen here. The range topper is powered by a new 3.6 litre V6 biturbo engine, used in a Porsche for the first time here. It does 400 hp/550 Nm, the century sprint in 4.8 seconds (4.6 with the Sport Chrono) and 266 km/h max. The Macan Turbo is expected to be priced from RM780k. All variants come with a seven-speed dual-clutch PDK gearbox and all-wheel-drive.

Note that the car you see here is a left-hand-drive Macan Turbo that belongs to Porsche AG, so it won't be identical to the cars SDAP have ordered.

Speaking of that, order books for the Macan have opened at both Damansara and Glenmarie Porsche Centres, and the latest Porsche will make a public appearance at Bangsar Shopping Centre from May 21-25. So, Evoque or Macan?