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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Andrew Nabors – June 04, 2019

2020 BMW X3 M & X4 M Performance Parts

We hope you are happy. Sedans are dead. Crossovers are dead. It is 1996 all over again with the rise of SUVs. Last week we told you about BMW's compact entry, the X1. Well, it looks like they have even more in store. In a press release earlier today, we've learned the 2020 BMW X3 M & X4 M performance parts will be available at launch. Both of them will have 503 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque thanks to a new turbocharged straight six. They might have German roots and designs, but you might be shocked to learn they will be built in Greer, South Carolina. In addition to carbon fiber accessories, BMW M dealers will offer wheels, graphics, and several Alcantara upgrades. Our dealers have great offers on 2019 BMW X3, and you can click below to stay up to date on X4 inventory. This much power and versatility are sure to be a hot seller. Browse BMW X4 For sale

By Andrew Nabors – October 29, 2018

BMW Unveils 2019 M4 DTM Turbo

If you have dreamed of watching new BMW M4s best battle it out on the track, you need to discover the world of DTM. Essentially it is a German version of NASCAR, with factory-backed teams trading paint in epic battles. For the upcoming 2019 season, BMW has dropped the V8 in lieu of a throwback, their 2.0-liter turbo four. The car was given a proper shakedown over the weekend, emerging from the Dingolfing plant with BMW Werks driver Bruno Spengler behind the wheel.2018 BMW M4: Price, Specs, & ReviewMotorsport Director Jens Marquardt said: "BMW Turbo Power has enjoyed success in motor racing for almost 50 years. In the first year with a BMW turbo engine, back in 1969, Dieter Quester was immediately crowned European touring car champion with the BMW 2002 TI. In 1973, the BMW 2002 turbo became the first German production automobile to feature a turbocharger. We are now adding a new chapter to this story in the DTM.It will take a few more revisions and prototypes before the car is ready for homologation. The Class 1 rules will involve changes to the inlets and aerodynamics, and it will be seen in a test race in Estoril, Portugal from November 11th to the 14th. The notion of a featherweight M4 with incredible handling and turbo power is music to our ears, so click the link below to find an M4 for you. Stay with us for all your BMW news. Find Your BMW Here!

By Andrew Nabors – July 06, 2018

BMW Unveils M5 Mission: Impossible Edition

Ethan Hunt needs a powerful car, so the latest BMW M5 is the star of Mission: Impossible Fallout. Played by Tom Cruise, the film received a deal of support from BMW in providing the Hero and stunt cars. If you have always wanted to be an IMF agent, BMW of Japan announced a special edition of the M5.BMW M5 Co-Stars in “Mission: Impossible – Fallout”More than just an appearance package, horsepower was raised to 616 hp, which allows it to reach 62 mph in 3.3 seconds. Finished in the same Singapore Gray as the movie cars, each one arrives with Mission Impossible badges on the B-pillar.The suggested price is ¥ 19,640,000, or only $177,766 at time of press. It's already tomorrow in Japan, so perhaps BMW USA will have a press release for us soon. If you want a more reasonably priced M5, click the link below and stay with us for all your BMW news.BMW M5 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – May 07, 2018

BMW Unveils M3 CS As MotoGP M Award Prize

MotoGP season is going to be wild this year, so BMW has a big prize for the fastest qualifier. To celebrate the 20th anniversary as the official car of MotoGP, BMW is offering the new M3 CS to whoever turns the fastest laps. This year will mark the 16th time BMW has given the M award, and a Frozen Fark Blue M3 will be presented at the end of the season.Each competitor will receive points for their fastest qualifying laps in each MotoGP race, and the winner will take home this mean machine. The new BMW M3 CS is the most powerful M3 ever built. It stays true to tradition by using a straight six engine and two TwinPower turbos to reach 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. It offers 460 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Inside the winner will find Merino leather in a 2-tone pattern along with Alcantara accents.A press release this morning says the car was unveiled at the Spanish Grand Prix on Saturday, and it is one of only 1,200 examples to be built. The M3 has and is the perfect combination of handling and power, so click the link below to find our dealer near you.Browse BMW M Cars For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – March 20, 2018

BMW X4: Old vs New

It seems like only yesterday that BMW introduced the X4. One of their most popular SUVs, it began rolling off the assembly line for the 2015 model year. While it is sold around the world in left and right-hand drive versions, every example has been assembled by skilled Americans in Greer, South Carolina.Top 10 Fastest Quarter-Mile TimesIt has been so successful that a new version has arrived for 2019. Although it looks like a normal midlife refresh, BMW changed every line and contour inside and out. In order to highlight the differences to the public, they uploaded a great comparison video to YouTube. BMW knows their customer is a highly technical driver, a person interested in even the smallest details. The main selling points are improved aerodynamics, interior comfort, and of course- more power! Our dealers are ready to help you, so click the link below and stay with us for all your BMW news.Browse BMW X4 For Sale

By Edward Jones – March 08, 2018

New BMW M2 Coupe Edition Black Shadow

A new edition is being added to the M2's lineup that adds a bit of darkness to the model's lineup. The new BMW M2 Coupe Edition Black Shadow comes exclusively in a deep Sapphire Black metallic finish. This exterior paint is further accentuated by a number of other features that make this car fit for Batman.Joining the dark paint is side mirrors and rear diffuser with a carbon finish. The grille and trim bars in high-gloss black, while the tailpipes have a black-chrome trim. As for wheels, there are 19-inch matte black forged light alloys with a Y-spoke design.BMW Unveils Concept M8 Gran Coupe In Geneva BMW will be offering the M2 Coupe Edition Black Shadow in April 2018.

By Andrew Nabors – March 06, 2018

BMW Unveils Concept M8 Gran Coupe In Geneva

What happens when you leave BMW's M division run wild? They build the ultimate Bavarian sedan. Unveiled earlier today at the Geneva Motor Show, the new M8 Gran Coupe is their new flagship. With the recent restyling of another certain German sedan, this new design language is a nice departure from the current lineup."The BMW Concept M8 Gran Coupe is designed to stir things up, to polarise – it should move you emotionally," said Domagoj Dukec, Vice President of design.They chose to launch the racing version first, and the M8 GTE ran well at Daytona back in January. The press release also says many of its features like advanced LED headlights and carbon fiber roof panel are making it into production. It seems like only yesterday that the 7 Series was redesigned with its innovative carbon-fiber chassis, but BMW has undoubtedly raised the bar again. The Gran Coupe M8 is still technically a concept, but we hope this is close to the final design. And since the 6 Series coupe and convertible were axed, it is probable that the 8 Series will spawn versions of both.

By Andrew Nabors – February 20, 2018

BMW Unveils The M4 Convertible 30 Jahre Edition

It is hard to believe the M Division of BMW has been building convertibles for three decades. Everyone seems to have a story of the E30 series. The light and nimble E30 M3 lost its top in time for the summer of '88. Convertibles had fallen out of style by the mid 70's, and America's last drop top was the 1976 Eldorado. When Corvette brought back the ragtop in 1988 they were forced to add 500 lbs of chassis bracing to keep it from shaking to death.BMW M5 Drifts For 8 Hours, Breaks Two World Records BMW has never accepted compromises like the other manufacturers. That is why each successive M convertible has been an instant collectible. Knowing how much we love them, BMW has pulled back the curtain on a 30th-anniversary edition. Times have changed, and the 2-door is now the M4 instead of the M3. Only 300 examples of the M4 Convertible 30 Jahre (year) will be produced. It will arrive with 450 hp thanks to the M Sport exhaust. The Adaptive M suspension has been returned to a specific Sport mode for this limited run. Tuning for the Active M differential and the sway bars were also revised.2018 BMW M4: Price, Specs, & Review Only two colors will be offered: Macao Blue Metallic and Mandarin II. Both colors have decades of history with the M division, and they look great riding on the 20" Orbit Grey forged M alloy wheels (also specific to this edition). The interior is full Merino leather, in a color scheme that matches either of the body colors. Of course, the dash will have 30 Jahre Edition badges that feature each car's number of the 300. Spartans would approve of only 300 examples, and we can't wait to put the top down. So tell us your favorite M car story in the comments below and click the link to find an M4 near you.Browse BMW M4 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – February 15, 2018

BMW Reveals Pricing For The i8 Roadster

It has been two months since BMW formally revealed the convertible version of their hybrid i8. In the meantime, they sent us a 2018 BMW i8 coupe to drive for a week of thrills. It never failed to disappoint, with great handling and hardly using any fuel. To incorporate a disappearing hard top, the rear seats have been lost. Like most other German drop-tops, the action will take place up to 31 mph.Upcoming BMW i8 Roadster Teased All convertibles need extra reinforcements to make up for the folding roof. Instead of simply guessing the corners, BMW chose to 3D print the braces for the ultimate in top-down technology. The top and its mechanism bump the curb weight up by 132 lbs, but this isn't an issue. That's because you still have the 1.5-liter turbocharged three making 228 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. A fraction of this power is sent to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission, but under most circumstances, it is used to power the 141 horsepower electric that makes 184 lb-ft of torque.Pricing for a no-frills roadster will start at $163,300, which arrives without big brakes or laser headlights. Be prepared to spend an additional 10 grand to make it the roadster of your dreams and stay with us for more BMW updates.Browse i8 For Sale

By Edward Jones – February 15, 2018

2019 BMW X4 is Bigger and More Powerful

The second generation and model year 2019 BMW X4 is here after an announcement from the German automaker. According to them, the X4 has "sportier proportions, with wider tracks, the latest generation suspension settings, a lower center of gravity and improved aerodynamics." To make all of that possible, the engineering team at BMW had their work cut out for them.BodyAs for the 2019 X4's body, it has an additional 3 inches added to its length, 2.1 inches added to its wheelbase, 1.4 inches added to its width and a 0.1-inch drop in its height. All of those adjustments prove that BMW wanted to make the X4 sportier with a more "squatty" body. Model VariantsBMW will be offering the X4 in both the standard "xLine" and "M Performance" variants. In the standard lineup, the X4 will be available in the new X4 xDrive30i variant, which is powered by a TwinPower four-cylinder engine (248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque). For those wanting a bit more power from their X4, there's the X4 M40i (355 hp, 365 lb-ft of torque and 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds).BMW M5 Drifts For 8 Hours, Breaks Two World Records SafetyLike all current BMW models, the 2019 X4 will be offered with a massive suite of safety features. The Driving Assistance Package gives the driver access to Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Daytime Pedestrian Protection, Frontal Collision Warning with City Collison Mitigation, Cross Traffic Alert rear, and Speed Limit Information. Opt for the Driving Assistant Plus Package and you'll get what was previously mention, as well as Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Active Lane Keeping Assistant with Side Collision Avoidance, Traffic Jam Assistant, Evasion Aid & Cross Traffic alert front and rear. Price and Release DateThe all-new 2019 BMW X4 will be releasing at BMW dealerships in July 2018. Starting price for the X4 xDrive30i is set at $50,450, while the sportier X4 M40i will have a starting cost of $60,450 (Destination and Handling fees not included).

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