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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

Lexus LFZ gallery1 desktop 1440x811 LEX LFZ CY21 0018 M75

By Andrew Nabors – March 30, 2021

Lexus LF-Z Electrified Concept Showcases a High Voltage F...

They have laid out an aggressive plan of battery powered luxury Your local dealer will have 10 new hybrid and electric cars to choose from by 2025, and it all starts here. The Lexus LF-Z Electrified concept showcases a high voltage future that blends their unique style with technologies not offered by anyone else. Japanese engineers are never reactionary. Instead of taking inspiration from western products or ideas, they forge a new path to achieve an outcome nobody could have predicted. In order to build the final naturally aspirated supercar, the LF-A was in development for a decade. The result was and is one of the best cars of all time. Just as dynamic as that carbon fiber chassis, the LF-Z is the first electric to mount the battery longitudinally inside the car's backbone. Not only does it center the car's mass low in the body, it also keep the center of rotation (Z-axis) close to the center of the car. This offers incredible handling, but they took it a step even further. DIRECT4 is a new take on AWD, where each motor brakes or applies torque independently. Their common goal is to provide a smooth ride and negate body roll, and they do that at each corner to optimize driving forces. The concept foreshadows technologies and styling we will see starting this year with two new production cars, so tell us your thoughts on the LF-Z Electrified and stay with us for all your Lexus news. Browse Lexus For Sale Images (C) Toyota USA

By Andrew Nabors – March 23, 2021

Meet the 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance Launch Edi...

Only 500 examples will be offered, each with exclusive details Something wild was revealed at Sebring this weekend. Those who enjoy powerful sedans need to realize that sacrificing luxury is a thing of the past. So let's meet the 2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance Launch Edition. The new color is "incognito" and it is a nice contrast to the 2-tone interior. You will be awash in black & gray Ultrasuede with accents of silver ash wood in all the right places. BBS provides 19" wheels that are 4 lbs lighter than the standard F Sport wheels. Their silky smooth 5-liter remains naturally aspirated to offer 471 horsepower but only 395 lb-ft of torque. In all honesty a smaller V8 with forced induction would bring the car into line with competitors. What sets Lexus apart is the ability to run without issues for several hundred thousand miles. Click the button to learn more and tell us your favorite Lexus stories in the comments below. Shop Lexus Images (C) Toyota

By Andrew Nabors – February 22, 2021

2022 Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance Arrives With V8 Power

Last year we were thrilled to meet the all-new IS 350, and now the 2022 Lexus IS F Sport Performance arrives with V8 power. With the news that the Mercedes-Benz C-Class will only offer 4-cylinder engines from here on, its nice to see a 5-liter V8 get a new lease on life. Engineers at their F-Sport Performance division offer 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. Despite having every luxury and safety feature, the new IS only weighs 3,891 lbs. This allows it to reach 60 mph in 4.5 seconds while also averaging 24 mpg. You will have rear suspension tuned by Yamaha, a Torsen locking differential and 14" rotors as standard equipment. Lexus Safety System 2.5+ includes more protection for pedestrians with automatic steering assist, road sign assist, and pre-collision. The big boss watched over every aspect of this car's development, so here's to Akio Toyoda for keeping Lexus at the cutting edge. If you need something more virtual, Lexus and Twitch just created the ultimate gamer car. Lexus For Sale Images (C) Toyota USA

By Andrew Nabors – January 05, 2021

2021 Lexus IS Explores Owners' Obsessions

When considering their target audience, " title="YouTube video" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen> does not make assumptions. Thanks to understanding the lifestyle and culture of their customers, the 2021 Lexus IS explores owners' obsessions. 2021 Lexus IS Offers More Safety & Improved Handling Their latest press release gives context to a series of YouTube uploads. They define an obsession in terms we are familiar with. Dynamic personalities like influencers, "sneakerheads", fashionistas, audiophiles, and travel bloggers like to enjoy a car that remains at the crossroads of style and luxury. The IS series has nice upgrades this year, so allow our dealers to find one for you and stay with us for all your Lexus news. Browse Lexus For Sale " width="680"> Image (C) Toyota USA

By Andrew Nabors – November 12, 2020

2021 Lexus LS Receives Suspension & Performance Updates

No matter how much testing is done, automakers often make a few changes after the first model year. Such is the case with the largest Japanese sedan offered in the U.S. While last year saw the debut of the 5th Generation, the 2021 Lexus LS has received suspension and performance updates. Their latest press release starts with a more comfortable ride. Realizing how strong the chassis is in real-life situations, engineers have dialed back the spring and shock firmness. This had an added bonus of killing more road noise before it reaches the interior. The LS 500 is rated at 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque thanks to twin turbos on a 3.5-liter V6. Unfortunately, the 10-speed automatic was shifting early to preserve the silky-smooth nature their customers demand. To access such chunky torque, the shift points and part-throttle mapping is all new. Larger wastegates hold boost longer in any situation, and even the pistons were revised for smoother running in cold climates and decreased pollution from the exhaust. The LS has been a benchmark for luxury since 1989, so click the button below to learn why. Stay with us for all your Lexus news. Browse Lexus LS For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – October 07, 2020

Lexus J201 Concept To Debut At Rebelle Rally

Overlanding has been a part of 4WD culture since surplus Jeeps came home from the war. The Jeep also spurred Toyota to build the FJ, which has evolved into the 2021 Land Cruiser and its luxury cousin at Lexus. The LX570 and the Land Cruiser ride on a shared chassis known as J201. Last refreshed in 2015, its time for something new. That's why the Lexus J201 concept will debut at the Rebelle Rally. This annual off-road challenges teams of ladies from around the world to compete in factory-backed equipment. The 10-day rally starts on October 8th, and defending champions Rachelle Croft and Taylor Pawley will have the ultimate luxury ride. The concept embodies "omotenashi" which is a Japanese practice of hospitality by learning the culture of your guest and anticipating their every need. In that manner, the J201 anticipates every adverse condition thanks to 550 supercharged horsepower. " width="680"> Along for the ride are the usual Overlanding upgrades like a tuned lift kit, 35" General Grabber tires, jerry cans, rock sliders, fabricated bumpers and a Warn winch. The upper control arms were custom made for long travel, and the snorkel will keep them dry with no need for a bridge. Hopefully a few of these parts make it to production, so we wish Team Lexus the best of luck. Stay with us for all your Lexus news and a full recap of Rebelle Rally 2020. Browse Lexus For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – July 27, 2020

2021 Lexus NX 300 Series Updates

Last week we told you about the 2021 NX Hybrid F Sport and how it has received the Black Line Package. For those of us who don't need to be sporty, Lexus has unveile a series of updates for the NX 300 and NX300H Hybrid models. Starting with more standard features, each model will arrive with Blind Spot Monitors and Cross Traffic Alert. The wipers and arms are a new design to improve aerodynamics and cut down wind noise. The HomeLink system has been integrated into Navigation, and the auto folding mirrors are also standard equipment. Lexus LFA Price, Specs, Photos & Review The optional Mark Levinson audio system sends more power to 14 speakers. The NX 300 continues to offer 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Hybrid adds an electric motor generator to offer 33 mpg in the city with the ability to cruise on battery power under 25 mph. Each example is AWD, with an electric motor/generator as the rear axle. Other than that, Blue Vortex Metallic has been deleted, and Nori Green Pearl is the new premium color. Click the button below for great incentives from our dealer and stay with us for all your Lexus news. Browse Lexus For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 01, 2020

2021 Lexus IS Teased

Many luxury brands think front-wheel drive and a comfy interior is all we need. That is why Lexus dares to build cars for true enthusiasts. The first IS 300 arrived in 1999 with the legendary 1JZ straight-six. College isn't cheap so I managed the fleet of them as Service Loaners from Lexus of Orlando. A small & nimble sedan with rear-wheel drive is a ticket to amazing cornering, often sideways. Now that we are on the verge of something new, its time to make space for a new daily driver. That's because the 2021 Lexus IS was just teased. The new car will be revealed on June 9th at 7pm Eastern time on their Facebook page. Until then, I can give you my honest opinion that the IS 200 is hard for me to turn down. They offer plenty of turbocharged power along with leather and whisper-quiet interior. Perfect after a long day, especially if you are caught in gridlock. Click the link below to find our Lexus dealer near you and stay with us for all the details after the unveiling. Browse All Lexus For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – April 16, 2020

Lexus LFA Screams to 9,000 RPM on the Dyno

Akio Toyoda told his engineers that cost was not an object when developing the LFA. Given a decade of development and countless millions of dollars, the company lost money on each of the 500 cars. Nevertheless, there are those among us (including Yours Truly) who can't leave a car in its original form. That is why the team at EKanooRacing wanted to see what their LFA was capable of before any modifications. This Lexus LFA screams to 9,500 rpm on the dyno, making 531 WHP & 370 lb-ft of torque. Lexus LFA Price, Specs, Photos & Review Since 4th gear in the LFA is 1.23:1, these numbers are lower than what the engine actually sends to the rear tires. Yamaha designed the LFA's V10 to have a perfect harmonic balance from idle to 10,000 rpm, so nothing like it will ever be built again. To experience the true power and refinement of the LFA, click the link below to find one for yourself. Browse Lexus LFA For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 09, 2020

2021 Lexus LC 500 Offers More Comfort & Capabilities

Every other luxury automaker would be wise to take notice of this. You don't need to wait for a new model to improve the ones you have. While most brands withold upgrades for years, Lexus never stops innovating. That is why the 2021 Lexus LC 500 offers more comfort and capabilities. Starting with the most obvious, Flare Red leather has replaced the darker Rioja Red. Once you are seated, you will notice a new operating system for the infotainment. It is much faster and now supports Android Auto. Moving outside we see new 20" forged wheels in Dark Graphite. They are much lighter than last year, offering a combine loss of 22 lbs in un-sprung weight. While a dozen pounds of interior or exterior wont make much difference, even an ounce removed from the whee/tire/hub assembly adds incredible comfort. Now that the suspension has less weight to deal with, the shocks and springs were softened. Not only will this make it more capable in the corners, it will offer a much smoother ride. This wasn't good enough for them. Digging deaper, they increased the diameter of the rear sway bar to allow easier turn-in and increased grip in the corners. While this would have been fine with us, Active Cornering Assist was programmed into the revised suspension parameters. Now with a completely new ride, the transmission has been re-mapped to hold gears longer when you get aggressive. While it might look the same, the 2021 LC 500 does not compare to its predecessor. Click the button below to find out why and stay with us for all your Lexus news. Lexus LC 500 For Sale " width="680">

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