SUVs are big business and high performance models such as our duo here sit at the very top of the range, enticing buyers with something a little bit different.
Or very different in the case of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT. Big American muscle cars have never really made sense in the UK but Jeep has come up with an appealing all terrain hotrod simply by installing its 6.4L ‘Hemi’ V8 in the Grand Cherokee off-roader body.
The Porsche Cayenne Turbo might be the Jeep’s natural competition in terms of size, it’ll set you back £93,574. Step forward the Cayenne’s smaller sibling – the £61,689 Macan Turbo.
Performance
Both cars have huge pace, so benefit from uprated brakes. The Jeep’s Brembos are good, but the Porsche’s optional ceramic composite system is better. It stopped the Turbo from 70mph in 44.5m that’s shorter than some sports cars.
Verdict
1st place: Porsche Macan, By combining the image, comfort and practicality of a high-riding SUV with driving dynamics most sports cars would kill for, the Macan Turbo rises to the top. And most buyers will sacrifice some space for the higher-quality finish, plus the pace and on-road prowess of the Porsche. Stronger residuals, lower running costs and a more attractive badge cement the victory.
2nd place: Jeep Grand Cherokee
The SRT packs plenty of feel-good factor, with a gargantuan V8 snorting away under the bonnet and its bold and brutish American styling. But even the relative value and decent practicality of this hot Grand Cherokee can’t topple the mighty Macan. Nearly £64,000 is a lot to pay and it doesn’t drive well enough or feel special enough inside compared to the standard version.
