Porsche Macan makes world premiere at L.A. Auto Show

The sixth model in Porsche's lineup is born - the Macan made its World debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show earlier today. Bearing the Stuttgart coat of arms, the Macan promises to be the most dynamic vehicle in its segment. This also marks the foray of the brand into the compact SUV segment.

Blessed with the DNA of Porsche, the Macan aims to set new benchmarks in terms of dynamic performance - both on and off the beaten tracks. To do this, the Macan comes in three powerful, yet efficient variants.

The Macan S has a 3.0-litre V6 bi-turbo heart that deals 340bhp and 460Nm of torque, allowing it to sprint from rest to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds, and returning a fuel economy figure of 13.8km/L.

Likewise, the Macan S Diesel has a 3.0-litre V6 plant, which is force-fed to produce 258bhp and 580Nm of torque. Acceleration from naught to 100km/h is done in 6.3 seconds, while achieving fuel economy of close to 20km/L.

At the top of the range sits the Macan Turbo. Underneath its hood is a 3.6-litre V6 bi-turbo engine that is capable of 400bhp and 550Nm of torque, and a 0-100km/h sprint timing of 4.8 seconds.

All three models will feature Porsche Traction Management (PTM) active all-wheel drive, with an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. And for the first time in a new Porsche range, the high performing seven-speed PDK transmission is fitted as standard.

The double-clutch gearbox in the Macan comes with a 'coasting' function, which automatically decouples the engaged gear when the driver lifts off the accelerator, and helps to further enhance fuel economy.

Every Macan also comes with an 'off road' mode as standard. This function will optimise shift revolutions and speeds for better traction, and the clutch will also be pre-tensioned to provide the front axle with more torque in a more speedy fashion.

An optional air suspension - the first time an equipment of such nature is offered in the compact SUV class - can increase the Macan's ground clearance by as much as 40mm to a total of 230mm. For a more dynamic drive, the Macan also has other tricks up its sleeves, such as a total of three chassis versions, with the cutting edge Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system fitted as standard on the Turbo variant.

The Macan is slated to reach our shores in the second quarter of 2014.