[ElTigre]

I'm considering the Thermally and Noise Insulated Glass option for a 2019 Macan. I've read numerous threads about issues related to this -- e.g., impact on cell reception and toll transponders, as well as (of course) car interior temperature and noise levels. In fact, I've already shaped my own conclusions on those issues, so there's no need to repeat that info here. (Thanks!)

I've found a bit less information, though, on appearance. My specific question is... What is the cosmetic impact of choosing the Thermally and Noise Insulated Glass option, versus the standard window tinting? (I.e. how much more are the windows darkened (relative to not choosing the option)? Plus which windows are impacted?)

Here's what I think the answer might be. Please let me know if I'm misguided. (I'm new here, and this is my first post!):

• Panoramic roof - No impact. It's not modified by the package in any way at all.
• Front windshield, front side windows - Little or no cosmetic impact. Not much visible tinting -- just like in the standard build.
• Rear windshield - Little cosmetic impact. Windows definitely appear tinted, but remain similar to the way they'd appear in a "standard" build. (Some people report a purple tint or haze, but other don't see that or only see it from specific angles.)

(BTW, this question would be much easier to answer if a local dealer had a Macan on their lot with the option intact. But, alas, that seems difficult to find. In fact, I'm finding it difficult to find visible, touchable examples of many things I'd like to order! Maybe that's just a Porsche thing... and a topic for a different thread?)

 

[wspollack]

I have this option on our 2018 S, and I don't believe there is any cosmetic difference, vs. Macans without it. Or maybe I just never noticed it, when going to the dealership occasionally and looking at other Macans.

If you're in the Albany, NY, area, you're welcome to take a look. (You might want to add something about your location to your signature block. Oh, and welcome to the forum!)

PS: My wife and I ordered our S without a sun roof, so no comment there. And I can't help myself here -- go ahead and yell at me -- I don't think there's any effect vis-a-vis a toll transponder (and the cell phone is too hard to tell, because we hardly ever drive our backup car anymore).

PPS: The glass is a fairly rare and certainly not cheap option, and has nothing to do with performance, and doesn't make the car look any better. Given all that, it doesn't surprise me that there are few, if any, lot cars with that option. Not a really a big selling point for most people, so the dealers would be stuck with having to charge a customer a grand more for that car. Similarly, we ordered our car with full saddle brown leather interior -- which was three+ grand, but at least it makes the inside look a lot better (IMHO) -- and I don't think you'll find many lot cars with a full-leather option, either.

 

[muhney]

I'm considering the Thermally and Noise Insulated Glass option for a 2019 Macan. I've read numerous threads about issues related to this -- e.g., impact on cell reception and toll transponders, as well as (of course) car interior temperature and noise levels. In fact, I've already shaped my own conclusions on those issues, so there's no need to repeat that info here. (Thanks!)

I've found a bit less information, though, on appearance. My specific question is... What is the cosmetic impact of choosing the Thermally and Noise Insulated Glass option, versus the standard window tinting? (I.e. how much more are the windows darkened (relative to not choosing the option)? Plus which windows are impacted?)

Here's what I think the answer might be. Please let me know if I'm misguided. (I'm new here, and this is my first post!):

• Panoramic roof - No impact. It's not modified by the package in any way at all.
• Front windshield, front side windows - Little or no cosmetic impact. Not much visible tinting -- just like in the standard build.
• Rear windshield - Little cosmetic impact. Windows definitely appear tinted, but remain similar to the way they'd appear in a "standard" build. (Some people report a purple tint or haze, but other don't see that or only see it from specific angles.)

(BTW, this question would be much easier to answer if a local dealer had a Macan on their lot with the option intact. But, alas, that seems difficult to find. In fact, I'm finding it difficult to find visible, touchable examples of many things I'd like to order! Maybe that's just a Porsche thing... and a topic for a different thread?)

I have them, you wouldn't notice any difference side by side with a Macan that doesn't have them. I like them and have not noticed any downside and my original 2015 Macan did not have them so I have had both. Definitely quieter but doesn't ruin the PSE if you have that. In Phoenix they also seem to be cooler but not a measurable difference IMO

 

[zbrusko]

I had a 2018 GTS without, and now a 2019 S with. I only had the GTS from 2/28 to 5/28 in CT, so I cant’t really comment on the temperature protection. However, aside from a bit of “fogginess” when looking through the rear and back side windows, I have noticed literally no difference in appearance, sound, ezpass, cell reception, or heat. As it turns out, I still need to get the front side windows tinted. If I had to do it over again, that $1K would be better spent on an equally uncommon option, like the cargo management system or red instrument dials to match my seats!

 

[GJP318]

Hi,
I have that option on my GTS. Minimal difference in appearance but noticeable difference in noise/heat transmission. It may be thicker glass but I believe it's more of a reflective costing/film. I use a toll transponder, mounted on glass by the mirror w/o any issues. A bit pricey (but aren't all Porsche options) but worth the cost.

 

[Hi-Toro]

You know this yet another feature Porsche give a cryptic description of.

"Optional: thermally and noise insulated laminated glass for all round more efficient reflection of infrared radiation. Enjoy an even more pleasant climate and peace and quiet in the passenger compartment."

Like how much noise insulation exactly ?

An actual figure in dB reduction would be most useful !

 

[realityintrudes]

I am reading these comments with interest as I have wondered the same things. I have been following threads on this subject in multiple forums.
Can any of you answer about:
- any impact on radar detector function that you have noticed? (FYI- I use the Valentine One, but don't want the content to degrade into which detector, bumper mounting, laser blocking, etc)
- was it a "must" that you had to mount any of the accessories in the designated spot by the mirror or lose sensitivity?
Thank you for your experience,
ri

 

[Masscan]

- any impact on radar detector function that you have noticed? (FYI- I use the Valentine One, but don't want the content to degrade into which detector, bumper mounting, laser blocking, etc)

I've read many threads about people saying their radar detectors were most definitely affected in a negative way by the thermal glass...

https://www.macanforum.com/forum/electronics/165416-aware-thermal-glass-affects-radar-detector.html

 

[e61it]

Any radar detector mounted to the Macan "Thermal" windshield must be mounted to the dotted area to either side of the rear view mirror to work properly. Size and shape of the detector need to accommodate this placement.

 

[GoBlue!]

I can confirm the radar detector impact. I moved my detector from a mirror mount to just below the headliner behind the visor and it works. you need to get a compact mount to make it work. My uniden R3 and R7 work. T?he Escort 360c is still in testing. might hang too low

 

[e61it]

Radenso makes some of the smaller and very effective units that mount to either side of the rear view mirror.

 

[HazelPDX]

I can say for certain that the privacy glass on my '17 Macan S has a significant impact on cell reception. I lose coverage constantly to/from work. I'm driving a base Macan loaner this week (while mine is in shop for dreaded TCC repair), and my reception to/from work is significantly improved without the privacy glass..... no coverage loss. I can say the same about my wife's Q5. I don't think I would order PG again....unless I had the built-in antenna booster available as a 2020 option.

It actually helps if I open my windows..... which is not ideal in Portland in the winter.

I would happily pay for an after-market antenna booster if there were such a thing..... is there??

 

[BGE]

Hi all,

I'm still configuring my Macan. I'd like to opt for the thermally insulated glass for the side windows but I'm afraid it might impact the exterior look (like the Heated Windscreen does). If any of you have a Macan with this option, could you please tell me if you see any kind of copper/green reflection? Pictures would help as well.

This fine example might have it for instance...

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[wspollack]

Hi all,

I'm still configuring my Macan. I'd like to opt for the thermally insulated glass for the side windows but I'm afraid it might impact the exterior look (like the Heated Windscreen does). If any of you have a Macan with this option, could you please tell me if you see any kind of copper/green reflection? Pictures would help as well.
...
Thanks in advance for your help.

I have the thermal option on our '18 S. Just for completeness, note that, at the time, there was no heated windshield option (in addition to or instead of the thermal glass option), so that does not come into play here.

In any event, I've never noticed anything weird about reflections in the side windows. You can see some pics of the car in my gallery (link below, in signature block); the actual car is in the first few and the last few pics (PEC shots in between), and some pretty clearly show the sides. If you'd like some more outside pics, I can probably manage that in a few days.

 

[Jellybean]

I also have the fancy glass and haven’t noticed what you are describing. It’s raining here now so when we get some sun I’ll pull her out of the garage and take some pictures for you.

 

[muhney]

Had it for 3 years, never noticed a thing.

 

[oqjnLu@>@W]

BGE: Welcome to the forum. As a new member, please take a few minutes to review the Forum Rules. I would
recommend reviewing the content of the following thread:

North-East

Discuss Meets, Get Togethers, Or Activities. Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, & Vermont

www.macanforum.com

The search utility is your friend.

There are a few other threads that already discuss the Macan glass option - you should review those too:

Thermally and Noise Insulating Privacy Glass?

Does the Gts comes standard with tinted rear and back glass or I would need to add this option

www.macanforum.com

​

Thermal and noise insulated privacy glass option

has anyone taken this option. Does it drastically reduce the road and wind noise? Thanks, Geoff

www.macanforum.com

​

Thermally and Noise Insulated Glass - Darkness?

I'm considering the Thermally and Noise Insulated Glass option for a 2019 Macan. I've read numerous threads about issues related to this -- e.g., impact on cell reception and toll transponders, as well as (of course) car interior temperature and noise levels. In fact, I've already shaped my own...

www.macanforum.com

​

Privacy glass

What are you thoughts on this option? I wouldn't want to cut down on the sound of that sweet exhaust note. Reviews have all said the Macan is quiet without it so I can see spending $1000 for thicker glass. I'm hoping to read some positive feedback from someone who has had privacy glass in...

www.macanforum.com

​

Privacy Glass

Anyone know the darkness on this roughly? On Audi it's pretty dark like 20-25. Limo tint is 15 I believe. I usually do 35 on the front windows. Also could someone explain "grey top tint in windshield" that comes standard on the Macan. Thx...

www.macanforum.com

​

 

[Viperjoe]

Check out these photo s and judge for yourself. Option VW5. I had the front door windows tinted 20% smoke.

 

[BGE]

Thank you all for the quick replies.

@oqjnLu@>@W I didn’t want to hijack somebody’s thread nor did I want to write a necro post... With that said, I should have titled and oriented the thread differently (e.g. what could cause this kind of glare on that car’s front windows?)

One more thing... since the Macan received a new heated windscreen for the 2019 MY, it would only make sense for VW to make use of the same technology for the UV protection... the old heated windscreen didn’t have the UV filtering silver coating/sheet while the new one does. And what else could possibly be on those front windows? There’s clearly something on that car.

 

[yrralis1]

I had it on 2 out of my 5 Macans . It was the most useless option I ever ordered except for all the unused Nav systems I paid for on cars . My first Macan did not have 3 zone AC . It was even a white car . Rear passengers BAKED in it in Florida July weather . In contrast a Macan in black without the glass but with 3 zone cooled better than the first car by a huge margin . On the configurator the colors change as if it adds something. At least in the US the cars have privacy rear anyway . It was 1K thrown out . I do believe the people who claim to love it never owned BOTH so they are basing it on only one car which has it . It does nothing bad to there car but out does take 1K out of a buyers pocket in total waste .