SciFrog:
The Macan is a compromise between a full SUV and a sedan and drives better than 99% of the sedans out there. You sit high enough to not feel stuck to the ground. It is a good compromise all around, good value, very luxurious, handles well, fun with PDK and much more cargo than a sedan and the brakes/tire budget is a third of a Cayenne TT/TTS with summer tires (actually at 30k miles with the Macan, I have spent zero, at the same mileage with the TTS I already paid for two sets of tires and one brakes job, over $10k total).
But real SUV have a place too: cargo, ground clearance and third row are a must for many people.
Panamera has a place too: ultra rich people who want the best sedan and can deal with no cargo and only 4 seats. Personally I prefer to use that unnecessary extra money in a toy weekend car that I can enjoy with my kids like a Ferrari.
I agree with most that you said, that's why I am second guessing my order, as I will have to trade in the Macan for this ST 4E-Hybrid.
Out of my 5 Porsches, we use Macan the most. Can park anywhere without worry. Satisfy most driving needs within the city.
Good problem to have, no right or wrong answer.
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Tim
2010 997.2 GT3RS; 2008 Cayenne Turbo; 2006 911 Club Coupe; 2016 911 GTS Club Coupe; 2015 Macan S