SUV either, but it very much splits the difference between those extremes to create a compromise

that should appeal to a lot of people.

For now there are two models available: the Macan S and the Macan Turbo. Despite their

names, both actually have turbocharged V6 engines … along with standard all-wheel

drive and Porsche's PDK transmission. The 3.0-liter S produces 340 hp, which is more

than everything in the segment except the heavier, 354-hp Audi SQ5. Both go from 0-60

in about 5 seconds.

Needless to say, then, that the 3.6-liter, 400-hp Turbo blows the doors off every other

compact luxury crossover. It simply does not have an equal, and really, no other SUV comes

as close to feeling like a sports car than the Macan … be it the Turbo or the S. Whether

you're bombing along a back road or just running errands around town, it corners flat, its

hefty steering offers lots of feedback and all its mechanical-feeling controls make you

feel connected to the car and the road.

It has roughly the same length and wheelbase as competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3,

but it's wider and not as tall. There's also a significant difference in interior space.

The back seat is cramped and its cargo capacity, with the seats up or down, is essentially

tied with the Lexus NX and Range Rover Evoque for class worst.

Its cabin quality is amongst the class best, though, giving up nothing to pricier Porsches.

Construction embodies the term precision, the materials used are excellent, and the

design, right down to the ignition being to the steering wheel's left is pure Porsche.

Now, we could probably do with fewer buttons on the rising center console and a more user-friendly

touchscreen. It can all be a little overwhelming.

The same could be said of the price. Until a base model Macan comes along, pricing starts

at just under $50,000 and few hundred more than a base Cayenne. That's a lot, but it

does match the SQ5. Just beware of the lengthy and hilariously expensive options list … tens

of thousands can be added to the bottom line like that. Which is really just another way

that makes the Macan a true Porsche.

For more information about the Porsche Macan, go to Edmunds.com and specifically its long-term

test page.