BMW News

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

A modern luxury sedan with a custom carbon fiber hood and trim, displayed in a minimalistic showroom with concrete walls and floor.

By Tyler Rampersaud – June 16, 2025

Mansory Unveils New BMW M5 Customizations

BMW’s new hybrid performance sedan gets a Mansory makeover. BMW transformed the legacy of one of its most iconic performance models when it unveiled the latest generation of its M5. With a hybrid powertrain and a V8 engine, the new BMW M5 is capable of performance levels and efficiency that were previously unprecedented for the legendary nameplate, making for a futuristic, high-tech, and high-performance luxurious sedan. The new BMW M5 is a hallmark of a new era for BMW, and although it’s one of the newest BMW performance models, customization and tuning specialist Mansory is known for its ability to transform the latest luxury, exotic, and high-performance vehicles with unique looks, opulent craftsmanship, and hair-raising performance, with the BMW M5 being the latest to join its repertoire. Mansory’s new suite of customizations for the BMW M5 includes various body kit components finished in exposed carbon fiber, forged 22-inch wheels, a new sports exhaust system that transforms the sound experience of the luxury experience sedan, and a performance upgrade that brings the total performance to 838 horsepower and 848 lb/ft of torque. With incredible customizations and increased performance available for the new BMW M5, Mansory has made its mark on BMW’s hybrid luxury performance hero. View All BMW M5 For Sale Image Source: Mansory

By Tyler Rampersaud – November 16, 2023

BMW Unveils New Racing-Inspired Centerlock Wheels For M2,...

The new available wheels bring racing-derived technology to the road. BMW M Performance Parts have once again raised the bar in automotive excellence with their latest offering – centerlock wheels, a technology directly adapted from the racetrack. Designed specifically for high-performance sports cars like the BMW M2, BMW M3, and BMW M4, these wheels not only enhance the dynamic driving experience but also amplify the individual appearance of these already impressive vehicles. At the heart of BMW's innovation lies the principle of transferring racetrack technology for road use, exemplified by the centerlock wheels. These lightweight forged wheels stand out in the BMW M Performance Parts range, embodying both design superiority and functional prowess. They are particularly noteworthy in the special edition BMW 3.0 CSL, a tribute to the 50th anniversary of BMW M GmbH, where they form an integral part of the tuned racetrack performance chassis technology. What sets these wheels apart is their construction, involving an emotionally charged design and a motorsport-adapted connection to the wheel bearing. This design significantly reduces the weight of the wheels, contributing to the high-performance-oriented character of the BMW models equipped with them. Moreover, the centerlock wheels are available for a range of models, including the BMW M2, the BMW M3 Touring Competition with M xDrive, and all variants of the BMW M3 Sedan, BMW M4 Coupe, and BMW M4 Convertible. The innovation does not end with the design. Centerlock wheels, a concept borrowed from the world of motorsport, enable rapid wheel changes, thus minimizing pit stop durations. Unlike traditional wheels that use five screws, these wheels are secured with a single central screw, ensuring a robust connection to the wheel hub. This technology not only makes wheel changes more efficient but also contributes to a distinctive design in the hub area and an exclusive appearance. In terms of size and style, the M Performance centerlock wheels for the BMW M2, BMW M3, and BMW M4 are a statement of engineering artistry. Offered in a combination of 19 inches for the front and 20 inches for the rear, these Jet Black matte wheels feature a Y-spoke design, complete with milled M Performance lettering, and are fitted with high-performance tires. BMW M Performance Parts, especially the new centerlock wheels, offer an unparalleled combination of racetrack technology and everyday practicality, making every drive an exhilarating experience. View All BMWs For Sale

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By Jordan Aquistapace – August 10, 2023

Gunther Werks Adds A BMW E30 M3 To Its Portfolio Of Porsches

The legacy of the BMW E30 M3 continues with help from Gunther Werks.

By Tyler Rampersaud – March 13, 2023

Mansory Gives The BMW X7 A Makeover

Mansory gives unique design to an iconic luxury SUV.

By Andrew Nabors – May 19, 2020

ALPINA Unleashes the 2021 XB7

When an automaker trusts a supplier enough to give them exclusivity, anything is possible. ALPINA has been building wild examples of BMW models for decades. That is how they have been granted manufcaturer status in Germany. Having integrated their parts into BMW's assembly plants is not unlike how Mercedes treated AMG during their early days. That is why we're happy to introduce the 2021 ALPINA XB7. Top 50 Best Exotic Cars & Supercars Of All Time Turning up the boost and freeing up the exhaust allows it to offer 621 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque between 2,000-5,000 rpm. Sent to all wheels by a ZF 8-speed automatic, we're glad that 6th gear is 1:1. Much like 4th gear in six-speed manual transmissions, it locks the crankshaft directly to the differential. This allows no power to be lost by mechanical disadvantage inside the transmission. Gears 7 & 8 are deep overdrives for cruising at triple-digit speeds. You will be at 62 mph in 4.2 seconds with a top speed of 180 mph. Click the button below to experience an X7 for yourself, and our dealers will be happy to reserve your new ALPINA. Browse BMW X7 For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – February 16, 2016

Rinspeed Creates Self-Driving Σtos Concept Based on BMW i...

Much speculation centers around the illusive self-driven car that we've all been waiting to see for the past few years, but Rinspeed is looking to put that speculation to rest. Though others have tried, Rinspeed is out to set the standard for the best, most humanly compatible self-driving car and will present the Σtos Concept Based on BMW i8. The design and specifications of the Σtos are truly something special.The car will feature a retractable steering wheel the retreats into the dashboard, which provides the human "driver" with more space to work, read or partake in another activity. Two 21.5 inch wide screen HD monitors adorn the dashboard and are adjustable to fit the driver and passenger's needs. Equipped with Harman Connected Car technology, the Σtos employs a "personal assistant of sorts" much like iPhone's Siri. The technology is able to provide entertainment, information and anticipate the needs of the passengers.Σtos focuses not only on having the best of technology, but also employing the most effective safety measures. According to Rinspeed,A total of eight HD exterior cameras visually monitor the vehicle surroundings completely. This makes impressive 180-degree panoramic views in front of the vehicle and behind possible and provides virtual “exterior mirrors” with an expanded field of vision that has no blind spots. People and objects in the entire vehicle surroundings are detected and tracked automatically. If they represent an accident hazard, the driver receives an appropriate warning.The Swiss car maker ensures that speed and agility will also be a factor for Σtos with wide 20-inch Borbet GTX aluminum rims and an aerodynamic body.The Σtos is set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show, but for now, check it out in the gallery below.BMW i8s For Sale

By Caitlin Duffy – June 17, 2015

Lexani Wheels on a Modified BMW 550i M-Sport

When it comes to taking an impressive vehicle and turning it into a unique creation reflecting your own style, Lexani has the perfect options.With 20" Euro Red Finish wheels, this modified BMW 550i M Sport is the perfect example of that special Lexani touch. The front features 20x8.5 wheels and the rear sports 20x10, and all four are CSS-8 Euro Red Finish wheels, from the Concave Super Sport Series. For tires, the front wheels are wearing a size 245/35/20, while 285/30/20 tires are on the rear.Though this particular BMW features the Executive Package options and has been lowered on Vogtland Performance Springs, yours can also become just as eye catching. Visit out Lexani's website to see the other finishes you can select for your CSS-8 wheels. Available in either 20" or 22", these eight-split-spoke wheels instantly up curb appeal.Take a moment to browse the gallery below to get a closer look at the Euro Red Finish option, and the video above, added to YouTube June 15 by LexaniTV, to see just how they spin.Gallery (Source: Lexani, YouTube) See More Lexani News

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