Porsche’s sales figures for the first half of 2026 paint a rather grim picture. The company has reported a significant 16% drop compared to the same period last year, with a mere 122,306 vehicles delivered. This downturn highlights the challenges Porsche is facing as it navigates a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. The iconic 911 remains the sole bright spot, its enduring appeal unaffected by the shift towards electrification and continuing to command strong demand. However, the absence of the 718 model and a steep decline in sales for both the Cayenne and the electric Macan are clearly impacting the brand’s overall performance.

The struggles extend to the electric models, with reports suggesting that Porsche is even contemplating discontinuing the Taycan due to disappointing sales. This strategic reevaluation has prompted the Zuffenhausen-based automaker to reconsider its approach to the Macan. While the company had previously committed to an all-electric future for the SUV, it appears they are now actively exploring the development of an internal combustion engine (ICE) powered variant. This pivot is not a simple one, as the electric and ICE versions were not developed concurrently.

Our spy photographers have been closely tracking the development of this new ICE Macan, codenamed “Project Octan.” The first prototypes, disguised to resemble Audi Q5 models, were initially spotted in Sweden in February 2025. These early mules featured minimal modifications, but by early 2026, the disguised vehicles were seen with widened fenders, a clear indication of ongoing development and a departure from their Audi counterparts. Now, a fresh set of images has emerged, showing a Porsche Macan test mule undergoing rigorous hot-weather testing in Spain, suggesting that the project is progressing well.

The latest spy shots reveal a test mule still bearing the Audi Q5’s silhouette but sporting a revised grille, further signaling forward momentum in Porsche’s development process. Intriguingly, the presence of Audi Q5 Sportback test mules in Spain also hints at the possibility of a coupe-SUV variant for the upcoming Macan, a move that could help recoup lost ground in the market. The reason for this extensive use of Audi bodywork is rooted in shared engineering; the new Macan will be built on the common Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture.

This platform will accommodate a diverse powertrain lineup for the ICE Macan, including four-cylinder and V6 gasoline engines, all equipped with all-wheel drive. Additionally, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options are anticipated, boasting an impressive electric range of over 100 kilometers (more than 62 miles) on a single charge. The question remains: will this strategic embrace of internal combustion power, coupled with advanced hybrid technology, be enough to steer Porsche’s sales trajectory back towards growth and away from its current challenges?