In a surprising yet strategic move, Porsche is reportedly preparing to introduce a brand-new compact SUV powered by a gasoline engine—even as much of the industry, including Porsche itself, moves rapidly toward electrification.

While many automakers are focused on shifting entirely to electric vehicles (EVs), Porsche seems to be walking a fine line, trying to cater to both traditional car enthusiasts and the new wave of EV-focused consumers. According to a recent report from Car and Driver, the German performance brand is developing a new internal combustion engine (ICE) SUV that could hit the market by 2028.

Let’s break down what we know so far—and what this could mean for Porsche’s future lineup.

Porsche Balancing EV Push With Gasoline Demand

Although Europe has already seen the gas-powered version of the Porsche Macan phased out—and the U.S. is not far behind—Porsche isn’t ready to completely shut the door on combustion engines just yet.

Currently, Porsche is offering two versions of the Macan: one with a traditional gasoline engine and one that’s fully electric. But the gasoline Macan is being phased out globally, and once it disappears, the “Macan” name will belong solely to the electric version.

So does that mean Porsche is going fully electric? Not quite. Check more photos

According to statements made by Porsche CEO Oliver Blume on a recent earnings call, there is a new compact crossover SUV in development that will run on gasoline—and potentially offer a hybrid option too. Importantly, this new SUV is expected to be completely separate from the Macan EV, and it may even come with a brand-new nameplate.

What We Know About the New Gas-Powered Porsche SUV

While Porsche has not released many official details yet, here’s what we’ve learned:

• Size and Segment: The new SUV will be similar in size to the current Macan, putting it firmly in the compact crossover category. That said, it will be an entirely different vehicle, not just a variation of the Macan.
• Powertrain: This model will feature a gasoline engine, and there’s speculation that a hybrid version could be included in the lineup. This would allow Porsche to appeal to buyers who are not yet ready to go fully electric but still want a more eco-friendly option.
  
• Performance and Design: Porsche has emphasized that this vehicle will deliver the sporty driving characteristics the brand is known for. It may also “benefit from synergies” with other models in the lineup, which could mean shared platforms, engineering, or technology.
• Launch Timeline: While Car and Driver suggests a 2028 debut, Porsche is not officially confirming that date. A spokesperson did say the model is expected to arrive “towards the end of the decade.”

Why Is Porsche Still Investing in Gas-Powered Models?

The answer lies in market diversity.

While stricter emissions regulations in places like Europe are accelerating the transition to EVs, not every region is moving at the same pace. Some markets—especially parts of North America, South America, Asia, and the Middle East—still have high demand for gasoline-powered performance SUVs.

In response to this global variation, Porsche says it’s keeping a close eye on “market development and customer demand.” If demand for gas-powered vehicles remains strong in certain regions, Porsche aims to be prepared to meet the needs of those buyers.

A spokesperson for Porsche explained via email:

“Once the combustion-engine models of the same name have been phased out, the Macan will be sold exclusively as an all-electric model, worldwide. At the same time, Porsche continually monitors market developments and customer demand. If necessary, the company looks ahead and adapts its product strategy.”

In short: Porsche is preparing for an all-electric future—but they’re not slamming the brakes on combustion engines just yet.

What This Means for the Macan and Porsche’s SUV Lineup

The Macan has been a best-seller for Porsche for years, blending performance and practicality in a compact SUV body. Its EV successor is already gaining traction in the market, but this new gas-powered SUV signals that Porsche is not abandoning traditional powertrains entirely.

Instead, Porsche appears to be splitting its compact SUV strategy into two branches:

1. The Macan EV – Fully electric and expected to carry the name forward globally.
2. A new gas-powered or hybrid compact SUV – A different model altogether, possibly with a unique name, aimed at markets and customers not ready for EVs.

This dual approach could give Porsche the flexibility it needs in an unpredictable automotive landscape where regulations, technology, and consumer preferences are shifting rapidly.

Final Thoughts: Porsche Keeps Its Options Open

While many automakers are going “all-in” on EVs, Porsche is choosing a more measured route. By continuing to develop a gas-powered compact SUV alongside its expanding electric portfolio, Porsche is signaling that performance, choice, and market adaptability remain top priorities.

We’ll have to wait for official announcements in the coming years, but if this plan stays on track, Porsche fans can expect a brand-new sporty compact SUV—powered by gasoline or hybrid—around 2028.

Whether you’re an EV enthusiast or a traditionalist who still enjoys the sound of an engine, it looks like Porsche will have something for everyone. Stay tuned for updates as this new chapter in Porsche’s SUV lineup unfolds.

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