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

Audi News

Audi news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated daily with model reveals, first drives, technology launches and verified performance figures. Our coverage runs across the RS models and the expanding e-tron range, together with the road cars that sit beneath them. Audi is moving quickly on electrification, and we report each development as it is confirmed. Plenty of publications carry performance car news, but few carry it beside live inventory. Many of the Audis covered here appear on the duPont REGISTRY marketplace, so a review and a genuine asking price sit together. That combination is difficult to find anywhere else in luxury car news. For Audi news today, begin with the stories below.

By Edward Jones – September 12, 2019

Live Look at Audi at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2019

Audi went concept-heavy for the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. A trio of Audi "AI" concepts were on display, including the just-unveiled AI:TRAIL, an autonomous electric off-roader that's ready for everything. They also brought out the RS 6 Avant, which the United States is more than excited about. Check out our images from the Audi booth down below and scroll even further for more Frankfurt coverage. see all audis for sale Audi AI:TRAIL Audi AI:CON Audi AI:RACE Audi RS 6 Avant Audi RS 7 Sportback Audi R8 V10 Spyder More Photos Also Check Out: Live Look at BMW Concepts and More at Frankfurt Motor Show 2019 Live Look at the New Land Rover Defender 110 at Frankfurt Motor Show 2019 Live Look at the New Porsches at Frankfurt Motor Show 2019 Live Look at the Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 at Frankfurt Motor Show 2019

By Andrew Nabors – September 10, 2019

Audi RS7 Sportback Unveiled in Frankfurt

Do you like widebody hatchbacks? If so, Audi has something for you. As long as you don't live in North America, the Audi RS7 Sportback was unveiled in Frankfurt this morning. Let's clarify the fine print in the press release. " The RS 7 Sportback will be arriving at dealerships in Germany and other European countries in the end of 2019." This is sad for us Audi fans, but we're used to it by now. Browse Porsche Panamera For Sale Americans wouldn't want a mild hybrid twin-turbo V8 with quattro AWD. Especially one that sends 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft between 2,050 and 4,500 rpm. At speeds below 13.7 mph, it can run on battery power, saving a ton of carbon emissions while offering great city economy. A new form of cylinder deactivation closes the exhaust valves of cylinders 2,3,5, & 8 to offer a smooth running four-cylinder while cruising. RS Air suspension and laser headlights are standard, with rear steering, ceramic brakes and dynamic ride control being optional. It has almost 50 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down, and it reaches 62 mph in 3.6 seconds. If ordered with the Dynamic Package, the top speed is raised from 155 to 174 mph. While it would be a profitable vehicle to sell here, the same V8 can be found in the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo. Click the link above to find a Panamera from our dealers and you won't regret it. " width="680"> Related: Audi AI:TRAIL quattro: Exciting New Off-Road Concept Car The New Land Rover Defender 110 Has Arrived

By Edward Jones – September 10, 2019

Audi AI:TRAIL quattro: Exciting New Off-Road Concept Car

Unveiled at IAA 2019 is a new electric off-roader concept called the Audi AI:TRAIL quattro. If you're a fan of traveling off of the beaten path and enjoying the view, then this concept is right up your alley. see all audis for sale Audi has given the AI:TRAIL a cabin that's surrounded by glass, so those inside the vehicle can peer off onto the wilderness. But that's where the magic of this concept begins. Being an electric car, it's perfect for taking into the wilderness on account of it not polluting the air. As far as range goes, Audi says it will have a range of 248.5 to 310.7 miles on the road and 155.3 miles on rough ground. And there'll be plenty of time to take a look at the surrounding, thanks to the AI:TRAIL's autonomous capabilities. When on the road, it can drive on its own. Off of the road, however, the AI:TRAIL's autonomous capabilities are limited. That being said, the sensors can still detect obstacles, road surface and slip in the tires. The system takes this data and can alert the driver or intervene as needed. Also Check Out: Mercedes-Benz Vision EQS Unveiled in Frankfurt BMW Concept 4 Revealed: A Glimpse Into BMW’s Future

By Caitlin Duffy – September 17, 2015

Audi S4 & S4 Avant Introduced

Audi's S4 and S4 Avant will be back for 2016 with quite a few new features, and crowds at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) were the first to discover what those features are.“From day one, our formula for success has been a combination of outstanding quattro performance, restrained design, and state of the art drive train, suspension, and infotainment technology," said Professor Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Audi Board of Management for Technical Development, in a Sept. 15 press release. "The new Audi S4 and S4 Avant impressively continue this sporty tradition.”The 3.0-liter TFSI V6 engine found in these Sport models has been revamped to create 354 hp and 368.8 lb-ft, making this daily driver capable of reaching 62 mph from a stop in 4.7 seconds. An eight-speed tiptronic transmission ensures all that power goes directly through the quattro all-wheel drive system, with an average torque split of 60 percent to the rear axle and 40 to the front. Of course, that differential is adjusted depending on driving conditions; in those cases, up to 70 percent of the torque can go to the front, while the rear can receive up to 85 percent. CockpitMoving from the engine to the interior, the S4 and S4 Avant enjoy comfortable seating for up to five passengers, with each enjoying seats covered in pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara. The two fabrics are combined, sporting the colors ebony, rotor gray and magma red. The inlays are made of matte brushed aluminum, and the S4 logo can be found embossed on the seats and illuminated on door sills.Technology has been upgraded with the optional Audi virtual cockpit, which offers a fully digital instrument cluster and a head-up display. The MMI operating system and Audi connect hardware are also included with the S4 and S4 Avant, providing high-speed internet access and a WiFi hotspot. Sound is provided by Bang & Olufsen.(See Also: Best Audi Guide for 2016: Audi RS, S & 10 Additional Models Released)Driver assist programs for these models come in the form of predictive efficiency assistant, active lane assist, adaptive cruise control, park assist, cross traffic assist, exit warning, collision avoidance assist, turn assist and pre sense systems. Topping it all off is a camera-based traffic sign recognition system.Check out the photos of these updated S4s below, and find your own from our exclusive listings.S4s For SaleGallery (Source: Audi) See More Audi News

By Caitlin Duffy – September 14, 2015

Audi e-tron quattro Concept Introduced

Tesla has enjoyed quite a bit of time as the world's leading producer of electric vehicles, but releases at Frankfurt are pointing toward a world with a lot more competition for the California-based manufacturer.The Model X crossover from Tesla has yet to officially enter production, but Audi has already begun work on creating a major competitor: the e-tron quattro concept. It was first teased Aug. 20 a few weeks ahead of the 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA), but today the marque has issued a press release with more information and images, as well as a date for when we can anticipate this model reaching production stages.“Audi will present an all-electric, luxury-class sport SUV in early 2018. The Audi e-tron quattro concept provides a concrete foretaste of this,” says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Audi Board of Management for Technical Development, in the release. “It combines driving pleasure with great range, an expressive design and excellent comfort.”A sprint from 0-62 mph in this beauty will take an estimated 4.6 seconds, while Audi predicts that an electronically governed top speed of 130.5 mph will be possible. Three electric motors will be responsible for producing 320 kW, or approximately 430 hp, with one motor on the front axle and two on the rear. It's described as performing similarly to a sports car, and a peak boosting moments can create as much as 370 kW and 590 lb-ft.(See Also: Sales Open for the Audi R8 LMS GTS Race Car)Check out the photos of this new concept in the gallery below, and let us know what you think in the comments. Since this won't be making its way to dealerships for at least another three years, find yourself an Audi from their existing models at the button below.Audis For SaleGallery (Source: Audi) See More Audi News

By Caitlin Duffy – August 05, 2015

2016 Audi S8 plus Unveiled

Audi has released the details of their 2016 Audi S8 plus, confirming that their top-of-the-line performance sedan is, indeed, even more powerful than anticipated.In a press release today, the marque confirms that the upgraded 4.0 TFSI biturbo V8 is capable of producing 605 hp and 516.3 lb-ft - an incredible amount of power from a sedan capable of being a luxurious daily driver. The design is more aggressive and creates a sportier appearance, the interior is bathed in fine leather and is thinner than ever before.Weight savings come from the use of aluminum almost exclusively in the car's construction. The body is almost entirely aluminum and based on the Audi Space Frame (ASF), weighing a svelte 509.27 pounds. When combined with modified exhaust valves, updated turbochargers and modifications to the special engine control, the S8 plus is able to reach 62 mph in 3.8 seconds.Though a top speed of 189.5 mph is possible, it can only be reached by opting for the dynamic package's governed top speed of 155.3 mph. But, if you live in Germany, that option comes as standard.Darkened tail lights and carbon fiber surround will bring eyes to the rear of the car, while the spoiler can continue the trend, as it's available in either the car's color or carbon fiber. Gloss black coats the Singleframe grille and double bars, while the mirror housings are either gloss black or carbon fiber. Side air inlet flaps and front apron blade are carbon fiber.(See Also: Audi Matrix OLED Headlights Unveiled Ahead of IAA)Available for purchase at the end of November, the Audi S8 plus is priced at €145,200, approximately $157,720 USD with conversion rates at the time of publication. Check out the gallery below to get a good look at this new German beast, or browse our exclusive listings to find one now if November is too far off to wait for.S8s For SaleGallery (Source: Audi) See More Audi News

By Caitlin Duffy – July 29, 2015

Audi Matrix OLED Headlights Unveiled Ahead of IAA

We're a little over a month and a half away from the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, but already manufacturers are teasing the new cars and tech that will be featured.OLEDs are reported to not cast any shadows or require reflectors, nor do they require light guides, making them more lightweight and efficient than past headlight designs.Stay with us to learn more about this advancement in lighting tech, and find your own Audi from our exclusive listings below.Audis For Sale(Source: Audi) See More Audi News

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