Jeep

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 – November 02, 2020

2021 Jeep Gladiator Willys Is A Wicked Wrangler

One of the most formidable names in overland adventure has returned. While most Jeeps are kind and gentle, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Willys Is A Wicked Wrangler. Your next 4WD arrives with a limited-slip rear axle, rock rails, and 32" tires. As an option on the Sport and Sport S models, the BFGoodrich KM2 mud terrains can be aired down for the ultimate in grip. 2021 Jeep 80th Anniversary Models Unveiled Starting at $35,265, you will have a 2.72 low-range transfer case, unique 17" wheels, and the Pentastar V6. It offers 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque to a six-speed manual or 8-speed automatic. As the world's most recognizable profile, every Jeep is the result of nearly 80 years of production. Just as before, every new Gladiator is Trail Rated. That badge means it is capable of offering traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation, and water fording in the toughest of conditions. Our dealers have all the information, so click the button below and stay with us for all your Jeep news. Browse Jeep Wrangler For Sale

2021 Jeep Gladiator 80th Anniversary Edition.

By Andrew Nabors – September 25, 2020

2021 Jeep 80th Anniversary Models Unveiled

Since 1941, Jeeps have been essential to keeping Americans on the move. Although their first model was built to win the war, it was their rugged attributes that kept veterans loyal to the brand. Eight decades later they have evolved into a complete lineup of rugged SUVs, so the 2021 Jeep 80th Anniversary models were just unveiled. Starting with a Granite Crystal exterior, each example is 4WD with special badging inside and out. In addition, their "Save The Wave" customer care program will be included on all 2021 models. 2021 Jeep 80th Anniversary Editions. Here is what you will receive: Three years of worry-free maintenance at Jeep dealerships, including oil changes and tire rotations 24/7 support via phone or online chat Trip interruption and first-day rental coverage VIP access to select, exclusive Jeep brand events Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep Brand said: “After nearly 80 years, the Jeep brand remains true to the original SUV by continuing to deliver legendary 4x4 capability that has enabled countless adventures and open-air freedom. As we celebrate our 80th anniversary, we’re pleased to provide our customers with 80th Anniversary models that offer a unique appearance, great value, and loads of safety and technology features." Click the button below to find your Jeep and stay with us as their anniversary events are announced. Browse Jeep For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 16, 2020

Jeep Wrangler 4xe Will Conquer Our Pale Blue Dot

After 43 years and 13.2 Billion miles, Voyager 1 is still actively exploring deep space. After its first mission to the outer planets, it came home to slingshot around the Earth to speed up. Knowing this would be the last chance for the ultimate selfie, Carl Sagan focused the camera on us. It moved him to write "Pale Blue Dot". To keep our planet in balance, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe Will conquer our Pale Blue Dot. " width="680"> Jeep turned to Ann Druyan, the widow of the great astronomer and the collaborator of their estate. This poignant 90-second spot really puts things into perspective as this dot is all we have, and all we will probably ever know. That's why an electric custom Jeep Wrangler for sale represents the future. If both Voyagers can still endure decades of cold and darkness to stay on their mission, there is hope for us to solve our issues here. In an era of cancel culture and toxic masculinity, here's to Jeep for one of the best ads in years. RIP Carl Sagan

By Andrew Nabors – August 28, 2020

South Florida Jeeps Unveils Gladiator Slant Back

To all who have served, we owe you a debt that can't be repaid. But if you were in the service,we have something that will make you smile. South Florida Jeeps has unveiled a Gladiator Slant Back. This limited edition starts with a 4" lift with Falcon suspension. From there they added XD 829 wheels wrapped in 38" Patagonia rubber. Yankees Pitcher Aroldis Chapman Just Bought an Insane 6×6 Jeep The real secret sauce is their electronic Slant Back rear tonneau cover. It can be operated by a switch on the dash if you want to cruise with the wind in your hair. If you want to hit the mud, the fabricated bumper incorporates LEDs and an XRC 9500 winch. Flared fenders, halo headlights, powered running boards and a 50" LED roof bar are all standard equipment. Desert Storm is the color of their Kevlar exterior. Their formula has been tested to last several years in the blazing Florida sun, and the marine-grade 2-tone leather is coated with UV protectant. It is double-stitched by hand for durability and because you deserve the best interior ever seen in a Wrangler. All this for $74,999 is a bargain, and they just completed it. We will have it listed for sale soon so in the meantime click the link below to view more amazing builds from South Florida Jeeps. Browse Inventory

By Edward Jones – August 12, 2020

Jeep's Wild Gladiator Overlander “Farout” Concept Comes W...

Jeep has just launched the new Gladiator Overlander "Farout" Concept and I hope that this someday becomes a model that can be ordered as is. Why? Because... look at it. This concept Jeep was created as somewhat of a successor to the Jeep Wayout concept from the 2019 Moab Jeep Safari event. Because Jeep didn't get to launch a new line of concept cars for this year's event, they went all out for the concept you see here. Powering this Jeep Gladiator concept is the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine, which will actually be in Jeep's 2021 model year lineup. Jeep notes this engine produces 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. It will be available for the Gladiator Sport, Overland and Rubicon models. Now, onto what makes this concept even more special. The standout feature has to be the deployable roof-top tent, which opens up to be 16-feet long and 7.5-feet tall. It can sleep up to four people and be opened in a just seconds. Other modifications include the new "Earl" body paint, chartreuse accents, two-inch lift, 17-inch matte charcoal rims, 37-inch mud terrain tires, modified steel bumper, 12,00-lbs Warn wing, custom rock rails and Fox performance shocks. See All Jeep Gladiators for Sale

By Edward Jones – July 13, 2020

Jeep Introduces New 6.4-liter V8 Wrangler Concept

Jeep is looking to add more power to their lineup and the new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept is a perfect indicator of that. This new concept Jeep is powered by a mean 6.4-liter V8 engine that produces 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Jeep says it can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds. We have to believe that this will be hitting production soon, because Jeep notes that they've noticed the call for a V8-powered Wrangler and that this is an "indication they may soon get their wish." See All Jeep Wranglers for Sale Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep Brand - FCA North America, says this regarding the new Jeep Concept: "Jeep Wrangler enthusiasts have been asking us for a Wrangler V-8 and our new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept proves that we have the ability to make that happen." The engine is part of what makes this V8 Jeep Wrangler a star. Other enhancements include the strong eight-speed automatic transmission, full-time 4x4 transfer case, two-inch factory Jeep Performance Parts two-inch lift kit, 37-inch tires, and a completely redesigned interior and exterior. Here's to hoping this Jeep Concept hits production! Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept

By Edward Jones – April 13, 2020

Jeep and Bill Murray Advise You to Stay Off The Road

Are you waking up each day, feeling like it's the same day over and over again? I'm not going to lie, that's happened a few times to me. Jeep knows that it's feeling like Groundhog Day for many and that's why they launched a new video and initiative with Bill Murray. Their new #StayOffTheRoad" campaign tells us all to stay inside and off of the roads. They also ensure us that those trails you want to climb over in your Jeep will still be there when this is all over. Times may be rough, but it's in everyone's best interest that we all stay inside, off the roads and at least six feet away from each other. See All Jeeps for Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – March 02, 2020

New Jeep E-Bike Price Announced

If you were watching the Big Game this year, you more than likely saw Jeep's commercial, starring Bill Murray. At one point in the Groundhog Day-based commercial, Murray can be seen cruising around on what we now know as the Jeep E-Bike. The bike itself is powered by Quiet Kat, a company known for their electric bikes. For power, this bike has a 750 Watt electric motor that spins to 4.8-inch fat tires. It can cruise for up to 40 miles on a single charge, meaning your adventures can last for quite some time. But how much will this bike cost? The website now has a price tag on its website: $5,899. If you're interested, it will be available in June 2020. For more information, click here. See All Jeep Wranglers for Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – February 11, 2020

Hennessey Maximus 1000 Goes Mudding

There are two schools of thought when it comes to mud. A strategic approach would be to use a divorced transfer case and very low gear ratios. Then there are the badasses. Families who show up with nitrous and boost and hydroplane across the hole while barely getting wet. Combining the two makes for an incredible ride, so watch as the Hennessey Maximus 1000 goes mudding. Muscle Cars For Sale For a quick refresher, John Hennessey and his team order a new Jeep Gladiator, remove the suspension and powertrain and build the world's most powerful Jeep truck. Hennessey Performance is the only builder to offer a Hellcat-powered Wrangler with a warranty, so click the button below to learn more. Click Here To View Pricing & options " width="680"> Hennessey Maximus 1000 is the Ultimate Jeep Gladiator

Kicking off the opening of the 2020 Chicago Auto Show, Mopar int

By Andrew Nabors – February 07, 2020

Jeep Unveils Wrangler JPP 20 in Chicago

Fiat-Chrysler has always their fingers on the pulse of performance parts. What began as "Direct Connection" evolved into MOPAR, a division dedicated to supplying dealers and customers with upgrades. Since a large chunk of the 4WD aftermarket is aimed at Jeepers and Jeeping, MOPAR has a new program for their faithful followers. That's why Jeep has unveiled the new Wrangler JPP 20 in Chicago. Meet the new Jeep e-Bike This new Jeep Wrangler for sale is a limited edition that arrives loaded with Jeep Performance Parts. Available with all 3 engine choices, the JPP is available in Ocean Blue or White. It features the Stars & Stripes on the hood, blacked-out fender vents, and forged aluminum badges. In addition to the stock doors, buyers also receive powder-coated steel tube doors, steel front bumper, D-rings, rock sliders, and the JPP winch. The included towing package adds a 240-Amp alternator, class II hitch, and a 7-pin connector. The notion that all these popular parts are included makes us ask: Are you down with JPP? Browse New Jeep Wrangler For Sale " width="680">

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe