With the new-generation BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC looming, Porsche has given the Macan electric SUV a tickle up.
Due to arrive in Australian dealers before the end of 2025, it will feature enhanced tech and extra towing capability for all-wheel drive models.
As part of the MY26 upgrades, the Porsche Macan EV will now come standard with a 360-degree camera system dubbed Surround View that will include new Active Parking Support tech designed to lend a hand when parking in narrow or tricky parking spaces.
Venture off-road and the Macan gains a Land Rover-like Transparent Bonnet that uses the front and exterior mirror cameras to provide a virtual view within the central display of what lies beneath the front of the vehicle.
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The tech has been created to help drivers spot obstacles usually hidden from sight when driving over rugged terrain.
A new Trained Parking system learns where you park then can take over the next time and automatically guide your car into your favoured spot. However, Porsche warns that the driver remains in control at all times.
Up to five different routines can be saved.
Reversing Assist is also for those who struggle backing up in narrow access roads or a winding parking garage, with the Macan capable of remembering routes up to 50 metres in length.
The system then is able to take over if it realises it’s on one of its pre-saved paths.
For the first time, Porsche has announced the Macan can be accessed via a digital key, with the MY26 Macan compatible with an iPhone, Apple Watch and Android device, but only if Porsche Connect services have been activated first.
The Porsche digital key works using hardware equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) readers> The vehicle can unlock or start if a compatible device is held near a reader.
Handily, the tech works even if your smartphone needs charging, and allows the car keys to be shared via email, messages and WhatsApp with up to seven users.
Owners can even use the digital key to control access to the luggage compartments to designated users.
When charging, as part of MY26 updates, occupants can play individually or together third-party games from Gameloft and Obscure Interactive via the Porsche App Centre, which converts the Macan Electric’s infotainment screen into a console.
Even on the move, the optional passenger display can be used without distracting the driver, especially when using the Bluetooth headset.
Porsche has introduced a new artificial intelligence-powered assistant to the infotainment system that can answer more complex questions than before.
It is also more adept at helping the user explore all the Macan’s functions, including helping decipher how to use some of the trickier parts of its infotainment and new driver assist tech.
Helping improve fast charger location on a road trip, the navigation-based Porsche Charging Planner has been upgraded to allow owners to prioritise or exclude charging stations, depending on their preference.
Other changes include what Porsche describes as greater levels of personalisation and individualisation options
Finally, for those who tow Porsche says the 2026 Porsche Macan has had its maximum braked towing capacity raised to 2500kg for dual-motor all-wheel drive versions, a healthy 500kg increase on current versions.
It’s thought pricing will be carried over when the updated Macan arribes.
The rear-drive Macan Electric is priced from $128,400 (plus on-roads), stretching to $184,400 (plus ORCs) for the Macan Electric Turbo.
