Is the Macan T much better than the standard Macan?

[Vroomer]

I'm considering a new/nearly new Macan but am unsure if it's worth paying extra for a Macan T over and above a standard Macan. Any guidance would be appreciated.

[WG]

I have had both and to be honest there is not a great deal of difference. I prefer the internal trim package that comes with the T ( leather dash and pinstripe seats) but that is just personal taste. The T has lower suspension and comes with PASM ( which my base Macan) did not have but in everyday driving on Dorset roads (lanes!) I really do not see the difference. Incidentally I could not spec Bose audio at the time of buying the T while I had Bose in the base Macan. Very little difference except that Both Bose speakers needed replacing within 18 months ( a common issue I believe) and I do struggle with the entertainment system generally - using a touch screen to select albums/tracks while on the move is downright dangerous. Overall great cars though ( but I am biased having owned Porsches for over35 years)

[Cheib]

I’d buy a slightly older car and get a higher spec/trim level personally. If the fuel consumption isn’t that important get something with the 6cylinder engine. There’s very, very little difference between the generations in terms of driving and the interior is better quality on the older cars….but you get a smaller screen.

[SkinnyPete]

Having driven them, I really would buy a 6 cylinder model.

[neilf]

Driven my Dads ‘23 6cyl S extensively. And had a new T as a courtesy car for a few weeks in Oct. Surprised how much I enjoyed the T, felt slightly lighter and more nimble than the S but I would still pick an S. The engine makes the whole experience more premium/luxury. IMO worth the uplift in price.

[WG]

I do get irritated by the S versus base comments (but I am a grumpy old git!)I wouldn't disagree that the S will be a more engaging drive but it depends what one wants out of the car. In my case, it is my daily "runaround" used occassionally for longer trips, so an S would be a waste of money as I would rarely get to use the additional power - I am lucky enough to have a 718 Spyder for my "driving fun". We do not know what the OP,s requirements are

[SkinnyPete]

WG said:

I do get irritated by the S versus base comments (but I am a grumpy old git!)I wouldn't disagree that the S will be a more engaging drive but it depends what one wants out of the car. In my case, it is my daily "runaround" used occassionally for longer trips, so an S would be a waste of money as I would rarely get to use the additional power - I am lucky enough to have a 718 Spyder for my "driving fun". We do not know what the OP,s requirements are

For me its not really about the power (although it does need more). The 4 cylinder just feels a bit cheap (it is) and very turbocharged/laggy.

A V6 is a totally different proposition.

[Vroomer]

Thanks for the comments. I'm not after an S, I just want to understand the benefits (or not) of a T versus a base model.

[sticks090460]

Went from a late 2017 base to a 2023 T a few months ago. The biggest upgrade is that my "new" one is fitted with air suspension, which is great for us since we live in a rural area, so the ability to raise the car when going up on verges to let tractors etc past is a real bonus. I usually drop it down on Motorway journeys in the no doubt false premise that it'll improve fuel economy, and it helps getting stuff linked up to the tow-bar. Interior is more modern, although I think I actually prefer the older buttons to the new plastic area around the gear selector, which gets covered in fingerprints. Apple CarPlay implementation is miles better. We have Sport Chrono fitted, and although I might be kidding myself, the base "Normal" setting makes the car feel more lethargic than the older car (which didn't have SC). Twist the knob for Sport or use the overtake button of course it's a different story. I don't think there's any significant difference in build quality. The later car came with 18-way memory seats and comfort entry which are useful because it's a third car shared between me and the wife. Both are recommended. The base Macan is a great car, the T for me justifies the extra expense but it's not a night/ day transformation.