Porsche is reportedly considering a gas-powered Macan after all, according to sources familiar with internal discussions at the automaker's Zuffenhausen headquarters. The potential reversal would mark a significant shift from the brand's earlier commitment to an all-electric Macan lineup, which had already been delayed due to software issues. Here's what we know — and here's what we don't.
The Backstory: Why Porsche Went All-In on an EV Macan
Porsche first announced plans for a fully electric Macan in 2019, positioning it as a key part of the brand's electrification push. The new Macan EV was slated to ride on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, developed jointly with Audi. Originally scheduled for a 2023 launch, the EV was pushed to 2024 after software development delays at Cariad, Volkswagen Group's software arm. By early 2024, Porsche had already discontinued the gas-powered Macan in several European markets to comply with stringent cybersecurity regulations — effectively clearing the deck for the EV-only future.
The gas-powered Macan has been a sales juggernaut for Porsche since its 2014 debut. In 2023, it accounted for roughly 80,000 of Porsche's 320,000 global deliveries — about a quarter of the brand's volume. Killing off that ICE version was always a risk, but Porsche seemed committed to the EV path.
What Changed? The Case for a Gas-Powered Macan
Now, inside sources tell *Automotive News Europe* that Porsche is revisiting its decision. The reason? Slower-than-expected EV adoption, particularly in the U.S. and China, coupled with the realities of a still-developing charging infrastructure. "Porsche is reportedly considering a gas-powered Macan after all, because the market isn't ready to go all-electric on that volume," one supplier source said. The internal debate is reportedly centered on whether to continue producing the current-generation gas Macan alongside the new EV, or to develop a mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid variant for the next generation.
A decision hasn't been finalized, but the fact that Porsche is reportedly considering a gas-powered Macan after all suggests that the brand is hedging its bets. The Macan EV launch in China has been weaker than expected, and European sales of the gas model remain strong in markets where it's still available. In the U.S., Porsche dealers have been vocal about wanting a gas option, citing customer resistance to the higher price of the EV (starting around $80,000) versus the existing gas model (about $60,000).
Dealer Pressure and the U.S. Market
Speaking of dealers, their feedback seems to be a major factor. U.S. Porsche dealers have seen the Macan as a gateway model for younger buyers. With the EV version likely to be priced significantly higher, they fear losing that entry-level customer. "Porsche is reportedly considering a gas-powered Macan after all — and that's a win for dealers who want to keep the ICE option alive," one Midwest dealer told me. The brand has historically listened to its dealer network, as seen in the 2023 decision to keep the combustion-engine 718 Boxster and Cayman in production longer than planned.
Moreover, the premium compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive. BMW sells both gas and electric versions of the X3, and Mercedes has the GLC with multiple powertrains. Porsche may be realizing that an all-EV Macan could cede market share to rivals offering choice. The company hasn't confirmed anything, but the whispers are getting louder.
What This Means for Porsche's EV Roadmap
If Porsche does bring back or continue the gas-powered Macan, it would be the second time the brand has walked back an electrification commitment. The 718 electric — originally scheduled for 2025 — has also been pushed to 2026 at the earliest. Yet the Taycan remains a success, and the all-electric successor to the Cayenne is still on track for later this decade.
A gas-powered Macan wouldn't derail Porsche's broader EV strategy, but it would signal a more pragmatic approach. Instead of a forced transition, Porsche could offer gas, hybrid, and electric versions simultaneously. That's expensive — engineering multiple powertrains for one platform isn't cheap — but it may be the right move for a brand that depends on the Macan for volume.
The Bottom Line: No Decision Yet
As of now, no final decision has been made. Porsche's board is expected to revisit the Macan powertrain strategy in the second half of 2024. A spokesperson declined to comment on "rumors and speculation." But when whispers turn into reports in reputable trade publications, it's worth paying attention. If the gas-powered Macan does get a stay of execution, expect it to come with some form of electrification — a mild hybrid at least — to keep emissions compliance in major markets.
For now, the Macan EV launch proceeds as planned. But the fact that Porsche is reportedly considering a gas-powered Macan after all tells me that the EV transition in the premium segment is going to be messier and more gradual than the headlines suggest.
**Three numbers that explain what's happening:**
- **80,000** — gas Macan sales in 2023, making it Porsche's second-best seller after the Cayenne.
- **$20,000** — estimated price gap between the current gas Macan and the incoming EV.
- **2024** — the year Porsche must decide whether to keep building what's still selling.
What do you think — is Porsche right to consider keeping the gas Macan alive? Drop your thoughts in the comments. I'll be watching this one closely.
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