Smaller Porsche SUV on the way!

Since committing to and subsequently backtracking on an all-electric future, Porsche has invested over R1.4 billion in internal combustion technology. One of the first projects said to result from this is a new compact SUV with an internal combustion engine. Here's what we know.

Sean Nurse

12 Sep 2025 · 11:34Automotive News2 min read

Porsche is fast-tracking a new petrol-powered SUV, codenamed "M1," to succeed the current combustion-engine (ICE) Macan. While a successor is no surprise, the technical details are: for the first time in 94 years, a production Porsche will have a front-biased all-wheel-drive system.

This isn't just a technical footnote; it's a significant shift in philosophy. The M1 is being developed rapidly—a three-year cycle instead of the typical five—in response to the softening global demand for EVs, including the all-electric Macan. This accelerated timeline is made possible by a close collaboration with sister brand Audi.

Related: Porsche 911 GTS (992.2) first drive review

The Audi Q5 Connection

The new Porsche M1 will be built on the same Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture as the upcoming third-generation Audi Q5. To cut costs and speed up development, the new model is said to essentially adopt the Q5's Quattro Ultra drive system.

This is a stark departure from the first-generation Macan, which underwent extensive re-engineering while sharing a platform with the previous Q5 to maintain a signature rear-biased feel. The Quattro Ultra system is designed to be front-wheel-drive-based, engaging the rear wheels only when a loss of traction is detected. While this system prioritises efficiency, it marks a radical break from Porsche's performance-driven DNA. We wouldn't doubt that Porsche would calibrate and engineer the model to make it feel distinctive and engaging to drive.

An AI-enhanced image of EV Macan showing what the M1 may look like

No EV Macan in SA

With local demand for ICE vehicles still strong and the EV transition facing its own set of challenges, South Africa is not destined to receive the all-electric Macan at this stage, so the M1 is said to fill the void left by the outgoing Macan. It will compete directly with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC and BMW X3.

Written by Sean Nurse

With a lifelong passion for cars, bikes, and motorsport, Sean knew that attaining a degree in journalism would allow him to pursue his passion, which was to be a motoring journalist. After graduating in 2012, Sean was awarded a bursary from the SAGMJ which allowed him to work for a variety of motoring publications. This was a dream come true for Sean, and after a year of gaining vital industry experience, he was hired as a motoring journalist at a local newspaper and worked his way up to editor. In 2020, Sean joined the AutoTrader team and counts himself lucky to wake up and genuinely love what he does for a living.Read more