Porsche Conquers China's Legendary Route 318 in Epic Macan and Cayenne Expedition

Porsche recently embarked on a monumental road trip across China, traversing the legendary National Highway 318. This ambitious journey, spanning 5,476 kilometers from Shanghai to the Nepalese border, tested the capabilities of the Porsche Macan and Cayenne SUVs while showcasing the diverse landscapes and cultures of China.

Key Takeaways

• Porsche customers, media, and influencers participated in a 44-day relay across China's National Highway 318.

• The expedition highlighted the new Macan and Cayenne Active Editions, designed for the Chinese market.

• Participants experienced a variety of terrains, from bustling cities to high-altitude mountain passes.

• The event emphasized Porsche's brand values of dreams, freedom, and speed.

The Legendary Route 318

China National Highway 318 is renowned as one of the world's longest continuously numbered routes. It winds its way across the country, passing through major cities like Wuhan and Chengdu, and ascending the formidable Hengduan Mountains. The route traverses an astonishing array of landscapes, including deserts, glaciers, rainforests, and mountain passes exceeding 5,000 meters in elevation. This diversity extends to the local villages, cuisines, and customs encountered along the way.

"Go Everywhere, Fast" Expedition

Under the motto "Go everywhere, fast," Porsche organized a 44-day relay event in spring 2025. The journey was divided into 12 stages, allowing for both extensive and extraordinary driving experiences. Participants, including Porsche customers and members of Porsche Club China, along with media and influencers, were selected through an application process. The event aimed to share this unique experience widely and introduce four new special models tailored for the Chinese market.

Introducing the Active Editions

The road trip served as the official launch platform for the Macan and Cayenne Active Editions. These models are specifically designed for a younger, more active customer base interested in outdoor adventures. Key features include exclusive paint colors, matching wheels, an off-road package with skid plates and roof rails, ventilated seats, a compass display, and a 360-degree camera system. These enhancements are intended to intensify the driving experience, particularly on challenging terrains.

Driving Impressions and Brand Values

Participants praised the performance and versatility of the Macan and Cayenne, noting their exceptional handling on mountain passes and comfort on long stretches. The expedition aimed to demonstrate how well these SUVs perform in all conditions, challenging the notion that they are solely city vehicles. The journey also provided opportunities for participants to engage in outdoor activities like hiking and rappelling, aligning with the adventurous spirit of the Active Editions. Porsche Chairman of the Executive Board, Oliver Blume, and Alexander Pollich, head of Porsche China, officially introduced the new special models at the Auto Shanghai exhibition, underscoring the synergy between legendary roads and legendary cars.