I personally prefer them and have spec'ed them as such (in black, along with matte black window trim). I think especially on the Macan S where you get the side molding in black (unless you upgrade to body color or CF), and on a lighter color (e.g. Silver), they work well and dare I say complement the car, especially when equipped with the (black) pano roof. The rear spoiler in black almost seems to go along well with the general theme, hence why to me at least it feels 'complete' with the rails.

My concern (not sure if it is legitimate though) is whether it will be noisier due to wind.

They appeal to me because it gives the Macan a bit more of a squarish look (vs bubbly/top curvy). This probably sounds counterintuitive, but without the rails it somewhat resembles the contours of an Infiniti FX (I say counterintuitive because the Infiniti itself is outfitted with roof rails).

Bottom line is, it is a beautiful vehicle and you can't go wrong either way.