Los Angeles Motor Show this year witnessed the launch of a couple of very important new models, chief among which this brand-new baby Porsche, the Macan. Porsche’s first take on the crossover segment has a strong – almost too strong – resemblance to the Cayenne, but the good news is it is also just as capable.

So let’s get to the details and see what’s what with the new Porsche Macan. The car will launch with three different versions, including Macan S, Macan Turbo, and Macan S Diesel. All models come as standard with Porsche Traction Management (PTM) active all-wheel drive and the Porsche PDK double-clutch transmission, and they all have V6 engines. Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) can be specified as well.

The Porsche Macan S has a 3.0-litre V6 bi-turbo engine that delivers 340 hp (250 kW), accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds and returns up to 32.5 mpg. The Macan Turbo gets pretty much the same engine, except it is 3.6 liters, and delivers 400 hp (294 kW), accelerates to 62 mph in 4.8 seconds, with an average fuel consumption of up to 31.7 mpg. As for the diesel version, it comes with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine and 258 hp (190 kW), does 0 to 62 mph in 6.3 seconds and returns an average of 46.3 mpg.

So the Macan is what everybody expected it to be: a very capable, superbly engineered small SUV that is not very interesting to look at. They say there are some 911 and some 918 Spyder in the design of this car, but the more we look at it, the more we’re convinced it’s the bad points of those cars they’ve used here.

What sets the Porsche Macan apart from the rivals in this segment is its blend of sporty drive – reinforced by the especially tuned chassis and even sporty driving position – and decent off-road capabilities brought on by Porsche mixture of all-wheel-drive and a host of electronic systems. The car is also packed with connectivity features and the latest electronic safety gear.

Standard equipment on all models includes Porsche Traction Management (PTM), seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) double-clutch transmission, alloy wheels, digital radio, front and rear ParkAssist, floor mats, multi-function steering wheel with gearshift paddles, electronic tailgate release, USB port connection and a three-year warranty.

The Macan Turbo adds BOSE Surround Sound audio system, Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with satellite navigation, leather interior, alcantara roof lining, 18-way adjustable adaptive front sports seats with memory, Bi-Xenon headlights with Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), sideblades in exterior colour and 19 inch diameter alloy wheels.