The Porsche MCT.MA is a 3,996 cc, twin‑turbocharged V8 petrol engine introduced in 2016 for the Panamera and Cayenne flagship models. It features direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VarioCam Plus), and a 90‑degree V configuration with DOHC architecture. Factory outputs range from 324 kW (440 PS) to 441 kW (600 PS), delivering peak torque from 650–820 Nm with immediate throttle response across the rev range.
Fitted to models such as the Panamera Turbo (971), Cayenne Turbo (92A), and Cayenne Coupé Turbo (92A) from 2016 onward, the MCT.MA delivers exceptional performance with refined daily usability. Emissions compliance is achieved through port + direct injection (PFI + DI), a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 6d standards.
One documented concern is turbocharger wastegate rattle under cold conditions, noted in Porsche Technical Service Bulletin TSB-2020-14. This is associated with early-design actuators that experience thermal fatigue from frequent high-load cycles. From MY2022, revised wastegate mechanisms and updated engine calibration mitigate the issue across all affected platforms.
All production years (2016–present) meet Euro 6d emissions standards across EU and UK markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765).
The Porsche MCT.MA is a 3,996 cc twin‑turbo V8 petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and SUVs (2016–present). It combines port and direct fuel injection with twin variable‑geometry turbochargers to deliver linear power delivery and refined response. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards globally, it balances high specific output with regulatory compliance and daily usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,996 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 optimal) | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32‑valve, 90° bank angle | |
| Aspiration | Twin‑turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 324–441 kW (440–600 PS) | |
| Torque | 650–820 Nm @ 2,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Combined port + direct injection (PFI + DI), Bosch HDEV6 | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d (including RDE compliance) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 | |
| Cooling system | Dual-circuit water-cooled with electric auxiliary pump | |
| Turbocharger | Twin variable‑geometry turbochargers (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with hydraulic tensioners | |
| Oil type | Porsche C3 specification (e.g., Mobil 1 ESP 0W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 235 kg |
The twin-turbo V8 offers exceptional power delivery with minimal turbo lag, ideal for both spirited and relaxed driving. However, it demands strict adherence to Porsche’s 10,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using C3-spec oil to protect turbo bearings and GPF longevity. Extended idling or short-trip driving may saturate the GPF, requiring active regeneration; ignoring warning lights can trigger limp mode per TSB-2021-09. Early turbo actuators (pre-2022) may develop wastegate rattle—addressed via TSB-2020-14 with updated parts. High-sulfur fuel must be avoided to prevent catalyst and GPF damage.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche C3 specification oil (e.g., ACEA C3 with OEM validation) as defined in Technical Bulletin TSB-1938-05.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification includes real-driving emissions (RDE) compliance across all MY2016–present models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765).
Power Ratings: Measured per ISO 1585 and ECE R85. Higher outputs (e.g., 441 kW) require RON 98 fuel for full performance (Porsche TIS MCT-MA-009).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MCT-MA-001 through MCT-MA-009
Porsche Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 29 11 22
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8765)
EU Regulation (EU) 2017/1151 (WLTP and RDE)
The Porsche MCT.MA was used across Porsche's 971 and 92A platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared modular architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—enhanced cooling in the Cayenne Turbo and exhaust tuning in the Panamera Turbo—and from 2022 the facelifted Cayenne Coupé Turbo adopted revised turbo actuators and engine mounts, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine code 'MCT.MA' is stamped on the left cylinder bank near the rear exhaust manifold (Porsche TIS MCT-ID-01). The 7th VIN digit is 'T' for this engine family. Visual identification: black composite intake manifold with twin BorgWarner turbo housings and integrated GPF in the exhaust downpipes. Differentiate from earlier MA1.76 (4.8L NA V8) by twin charge air coolers, GPF, and absence of throttle cables. Pre-2022 and post-2022 turbo actuator part numbers differ (Porsche SIB 29 11 22); verify via engine serial number before replacement.
The MCT.MA's primary reliability concern is turbocharger wastegate rattle under cold startup conditions, with elevated incidence in performance-driven usage. Porsche internal data (2021) indicates ~6% of MY2016–2021 vehicles reported actuator noise before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased emissions-related flags in high-idle urban cycles. Frequent aggressive launches and track use accelerate thermal fatigue in early actuators, making updated parts and calibration critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2016–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE MCT-MA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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