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2017 Porsche Macan GTS goes from peak to peak

We wring out Porsche's new high-performance small SUV by storming up Pikes Peak and Mount Evans, America's highest road.

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Chris Paukert
2017 Porsche Macan GTS
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2017 Porsche Macan GTS

Pikes Peak used to be entirely unpaved, and pro racer Jeff Zwart (at the wheel) misses the dirt-slinging action.

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2017 Porsche Macan GTS

The Macan's tidy rump features a particular hunkered-down stance thanks to fatter rear tires and a 10mm-lower ride height.

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2017 Porsche Macan GTS

The GTS receives standard leather and sport seats with Alcantara inserts, along with the obligatory suite of badges.

The new infotainment touchscreen is snappy, with 3D navigation and satellite overlays, along with available Apple CarPlay. A 4G LTE modem is also available.

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2017 Porsche Macan GTS

Our custom-wrapped Macan GTS test vehicles are visual homages to our guide, Jeff Zwart, and his winning Porsche race car liveries.

Porsche 911 GT2 with Macan GTS SUVs
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Porsche 911 GT2 with Macan GTS SUVs

Jeff Zwart's 911 GT2 may be old, but it's still wickedly effective in his hands.

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Five of our wrapped Macan GTS test vehicles made it to the summit of Pikes Peak.

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Jeff Zwart

Racer Jeff Zwart is a Pikes Peak legend.

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2017 Porsche Macan GTS

In this part of Colorado, there are scenic vistas everywhere you look, and even places you don't.

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2017 Porsche Macan GTS

Yep, that's snow. In June. 14,000+ feet of altitude will do that.

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2017 Porsche Macan GTS sightseeing
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2017 Porsche Macan GTS sightseeing

You never know who you'll encounter at above 14,000 feet.

2017 Porsche Macan GTS led by Porsche 911 GT2
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2017 Porsche Macan GTS led by Porsche 911 GT2

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It's 6am and the barbarians are at the gate, waiting to storm Pikes Peak.

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