Porsche Developing New Hybrid SUV M1: Macan Successor Shifts Philosophy, Moves to Front-Wheel Drive

Last year, Porsche pulled the gasoline-powered Macan from its European lineup due to tougher emissions regulations. At the time, the company announced that the second-generation compact crossover would be offered exclusively as an EV. But now Porsche is rethinking that strategy. With Macan EV sales slowing in China, new tariffs hitting the U.S., and only modest demand for the electric version, the brand is preparing to bring back a gasoline-powered variant — though in an entirely new form.

Engineers in Stuttgart are currently working on a project internally known as “M1.” Scheduled for release in 2028, the model will ride on Volkswagen Group’s PPC platform. Positioned to fill the gap left by the original Macan, the new crossover will be roughly the size of an Audi Q5, measuring about 188 inches in length. According to CEO Oliver Blume, starting in 2028 Porsche will diversify its powertrain lineup to strengthen its market position and ensure long-term growth.

The biggest shift? The upcoming SUV will be front-wheel-drive–based. All-wheel drive will still be available, but the rear axle will only engage when necessary — a major departure for a brand long defined by rear-biased dynamics. The first Macan also shared its platform with the Audi Q5, but Porsche re-engineered the AWD system at the time to emphasize rear-wheel handling. Now, with tighter budgets and the need to speed up development, the automaker appears ready to compromise.

The new model will be offered exclusively with hybrid gasoline engines. Neither diesels nor plug-in hybrids are in the plans. More powerful trims — S, Turbo, and GTS — are expected as well. Production location remains undecided, with both Germany and Mexico under consideration.