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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 – January 25, 2018

BMW 8 Series Prototypes Testing In Italy

Italians head to the 'Ring to break records, and the Germans are testing their new models in Italy. In order to build the Ultimate Driving Machine, BMW announced the 8 Series is in the final stages of testing. A teaser silhouette was uploaded to social media earlier, and it was accompanied by a press release. A private track outside of Aprilla is home to Bavarian engineers who are hard at work calibrating the various systems and beating the snot of the test cars.BMW M8 GTE In Final Testing For DaytonaThese are big shoes to fill because technology has made giant advancements since the last 8 Series was built. This new car will make us forget about 1999, and Y2K, and it's quirky V12 engine. In an unorthodox move, the first 8 Series to reach the USA is already in Daytona. The M8 GTE is preparing to battle it out at the Rolex 24. It will hopefully give us a better idea of the production car, which is slated to arrive later this year. Tell us what you think it will have under the hood, and stay with us for all your BMW updates.Advertise with duPont REGISTRY

By Andrew Nabors – January 23, 2018

BMW Group Announces Record Sales For 2017

It is lucky number 7 for the brands of BMW Group. For the 7th consecutive year, they have recorded ever-increasing annual sales. The core brands of BMW and MINI were the big winners, but the M Division and BMW i also had record numbers. For those who prefer two-wheel action, BMW Motorrad sold a record number of bikes.How To Sell A Ferrari 458 ItaliaBMW's core brands are split between cars and the BMW X series of SUVs. Cars saw a 4.2% increase, and the American-built X series is up by 9.6% from 2016. The launch of the innovative 5 Series Sedan with its carbon composite structure saw a jump of 6.3%.The press release also contained shocking news. BMW set a goal of selling 100,00 electrified cars for the year. Sales of the i Series along with the electric MINI models combined for a total of 103,080 cars. If you haven't driven an i8, you are truly missing out. The future is here, and it can be found at your local dealer. This achievement has spurred them to aim for over half-million examples on the road by the end of 2019.Reviewed: 2017 BMW i8Not to be outdone by voltage, the M Division also ended the year on a high note. One caveat is the M Performance versions are tallied along with the M2, M3, M4, etc. Sales are up by 19.1%, which is attributed to the first full model year of the M2 along with M Performance versions of the new 5 Series. Tell us which BMW piques your interest in the comments below, and stay with us for all your BMW news.

By Andrew Nabors – August 16, 2017

BMW Teases A New Z4 Ahead of Monterey Unveiling

August 17th will be a historic day for BMW fans. A new Z4 will be revealed, and we have a good idea of what it will look like thanks to their Facebook page. No matter where you are in the world, everyone seems to have fond feelings for the Z Series cars. They have endured the test of time thanks to being overbuilt and more reliable than their competitors. The Z3 and Z4 have cult-like status among Bavarian enthusiasts, with many considering it the "Miata from Munich". The biggest news surrounding the new car is that it is the product of co-development with Toyota. Their version of the car will also be reviving an amazing name: Supra.2018 Toyota Supra Testing At The 'RingYou read that right, the beast from the east is back. The Supra has been on hiatus since 1998 when they shifted performance cars to the Lexus lineup. We saw a prototype testing at the 'Ring almost a year ago, so both cars are probably ready to launch. BMW's teasers allude to a targa roof coupe, and other spy shots have shown a rag top model. It sounds like an M4, using straight six power to feed dual turbos. Each turbo only handles three cylinders, giving it a distinctive soundtrack. Rumors suggest a turbo-four in the base model with the option for manual or dual-clutch transmissions. History has a nice way of repeating itself, so our wait is almost over. The previous Z4 is a great way to enjoy a proper roadster, so check out these examples from our dealers. Stay with us for more exciting details from BMW and Toyota.

By Edward Jones – June 29, 2017

Black Fire Edition BMW X5 M and X6 M Revealed

"Black is powerful, black is exciting, and black is exclusive." - BMWThat quote is how BMW started off their press release regarding the new Black Fire Edition of the X5 M and X6 M. These new models take everything that makes the models successful and turns them into black stallions.On the exterior of the Black Fire Edition models is a Sapphire Black Metallic paint. Joining in the dark appearance is the black M double kidney grille with black bars, which is unique to the Black Fire Edition. Even the 21-inch M allow wheels are finished in black, and the mirror caps are made of carbon. Essentially, the Black Fire Edition is really a ninja edition.Inside, the fire comes to life thanks to the Mugello Red trim that contrasts against the full Black Merino leather interior. Piano black finish darkens the cabin even more, making the Mugello Red stand out like never before. Logos of the X5 M or X6 M Black Edition Edition can be found on the inside of the passenger car.Although they may have different model names, they both generate 575 hp from their 4.4-liter V8 engine. Power of this kind allows them to run 0-62 mph in 4.2 seconds when equipped with the standard 8-speed M Steptronic gearbox.The Black Fire Edition models will become available in August 2017.

By Andrew Nabors – June 26, 2017

2018 BMW X3 Unveiled: Preview

Over 1.5 million examples of the BMW X3 have rolled off the assembly line in Greer, South Carolina. Sold around the world, this American-built SUV has been a benchmark for the competition. To stay at the cutting edge of the small SUV marketplace, a new 2018 BMW X3 is ready for launch.The new body is less influenced by the 3 Series because evolution has allowed for new technologies. A new chassis is stronger and lighter, losing 121 lbs while returning a class-leading 0.29 coefficient of drag. Power will come from four and six-cylinder engines, and the top dog will be a turbocharged 3.0 liter in the upcoming X3 M40i. Acoustic glass is optional for the windshield, and optional wheels range from 19" to 21".Three trim levels will be available at launch: xLine, Luxury Line, and M Sport. The first has matte aluminum trim with glacier silver skid plates. Luxury Line has chrome along with a 2-tone finish, and M Sport has all the wild aero features along with giant brakes. These packages are aimed at making the ordering process easier, and our dealers will fill you in on the finer details. Stay with us for all your BMW news.

By Andrew Nabors – June 20, 2017

Take A Closer Look At The 2018 BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo

Many activities of a modern family are hard to accommodate in a traditional sedan, so hatchbacks are making a return. Remember when everyone said the WRX was dead when Subaru unveiled the 5-door Impreza? Well, they were on to something. A hatchback sedan is a slap in the face to the crossover market.If you are unwilling to sacrifice handling, power, and a comfortable ride, BMW has something new for you. The 6 Series Gran Turismo will be the only 6 Series to be offered in 2018. Coupe and Convertible versions are taking a sabbatical to make room for the new 8 series, and their rivals have been busy unveiling new models.The word on the street is that the 5 Series GT is also riding off into the sunset after 7 years in production. This will allow the 6 Series Gran Turismo to take over as their most practical sedan. To give us all a few insights as to its abilities, BMW uploaded an introduction to their YouTube page last night. One of the best features is one you might not expect. The rear seats are not only power folding if you need cargo space, they also recline. Backseaters are able to lay back and look up through the panoramic roof. Instead of a puddle light coming from the mirror, a light carpet illuminates around your car as you approach. LED magic is also found in the adaptive headlights and ambient interior. No mention of an M version has been made, but it would be nice to have such abilities with wild power under the hood.For more information, check out these 6 Series for sale from our dealers and stay with us for all your BMW news.

By Andrew Nabors – June 12, 2017

BMW 5 Series Touring With M Performance Pack

Imagine a German wagon. One that is coveted by enthusiasts around the world. It takes the best features of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan and bestows them with a long roof and ample cargo room. Now, hand it over to the M Performance engineers for an infusion of new BMW M5 inspired carbon fiber and giant brakes. Do you want a beautiful and brutal wagon? We sure do, but there is one small problem. BMW does not offer the 5 Series Touring in the US. We can only speculate as to why we're denied and that's an article for another day.Get Ready For It: The New BMW M8Cadillac and Mercedes-AMG have had great success with powerful wagons, so BMW has called upon the M masters to sharpen the 5 Series. As a preview for loyal Bavarian buyers, House Bear uploaded a preview of the new M Performance pack on the 2018 wagon. Some of the finer details are a race-ready steering wheel with 12 o'clock easily visible. The forged 20" wheels barely cover the big rotors, and carbon fiber can be found almost anywhere. If you like it as much as we do, head to your nearest BMW dealer and demand the new 5 Series Touring. You never know, they might just surprise us at the last minute, so stay with us for all your BMW news.

By Andrew Nabors – May 16, 2017

BMW Unveils Limited Edition M240i M Performance Edition

For those who couldn't wait for the new BMW M2, it was preceded by the fun M235i. And now that the M2 has a few miles under its belt, some of its most popular features will be shared by the new M240i M Performance Edition. Finished in Alpine White, only 750 examples will be produced. Carbon fiber and black accents make for a classy and confident look. Two-tone 19" wheels have 225 tires up front and 245 on the rear. They are potent and nimble machines, which makes a new BMW M2 for sale a very worthwhile adventure.The unmistakable dual grilles are finished in gloss black along with the rocker panels. A giant trunk-mounted rear spoiler will keep the rear tires on the pavement, as the carbon fiber exhaust tips sing a story of straight-six power. It will be offered with a six-speed manual transmission or a dual-clutch automatic. All-wheel drive is optional on automatics, which allows them to leap to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds. Top speed is limited to 155 to keep the lawyers happy, but it would be fun to bury the needle. Big brakes and all the stability goodies are standard equipment so it will be a nice addition to your collection. We have several new BMW M240i coupes for sale, so check with our dealers for great incentives.

By Andrew Nabors – May 11, 2017

BMW Bids Farewell To The 6 Series Coupe

Something new is on the horizon at BMW, so it's time to thin out the herd. A BMW spokesperson has confirmed with Road & Track that the two-door Coupe versions of the 6 Series ended production in February. The 6 Series Sedan, which is called the Gran Coupe for some reason, will remain around for a little longer probably because it appeals to more buyers. But for us in the minority, a sedan just isn't appealing. We had a bright blue M6 convertible as a press car last year, and it was a true delight.The 3rd generation 6 Series arrived in 2012 as the F12 chassis coupe and F13 chassis convertible. Powered by the unstoppable 3.0 liter straight six, it is a comfortable and capable touring car. When we saw the refreshed version in 2015 we figured it wasn't going anywhere, because why spend the money to restyle it for a 2-year run? The answer might have been to distract the competition.They introduced the 2015 model as new, but it was merely revised styling along with updated technology. We've driven several examples of both versions and they are fun in ever circumstance. Technology has made leaps in the automotive world since the introduction of the chassis, and the hottest application of it has been the carbon fiber structure of the 7 series. What began with their flagship sedan is destined to trickle down into the lesser models, so it was time to put the big two-door out to pasture in order to build something new. Speculation points to a return of the 8 Series, so as soon as we know you will see it here first.

By Edward Jones – April 19, 2017

New Model: BMW M4 CS Adds Power to the Lineup

Sitting below the M4 GTS will be the new BMW M4 CS. This new model sees an increase in power, as well as a decent of modifications that aim to make the car lighter and more competitive on the track.The most important feature in this car is the inclusion of the Competition Package, which bumps up the car's power by 10 hp, up to a total of 460 hp. This power and the seven-speed M DCT (manual is not an option) allow for a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds. Thanks to the Competition Package, the top speed limit is also increased up to 174 mph. View All BMW News, Articles and Videos

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