Lifestyle

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 Jordan Aquistapace – June 10, 2026

You Can Now Customize Your Luggage Like a Porsche

At Porsche, its design language not only carries through to track-inspired cars like the 911 GT3 RS or to daily commuters like the Cayenne, but also to any one of the vast lifestyle collaborations that bear the brand’s coveted crest. First imagined by Ferdinand Porsche with the launch of the Porsche Design Chronograph 1 in 1972, bringing Porsche into every corner of life has turned out to be a pretty smart move, especially for a fanbase that genuinely lives and breathes the brand 24/7. As part of its growing series of luxury luggage, Porsche is proud to accompany travelers with the launch of its newest Roadster Aluminum collection in collaboration with Bric’s. Porsche Design expands its lineup with a new black colorway, now offered alongside the signature silver. The new release also offers personalization for the first time, allowing buyers to choose details such as leather handles, luggage tags, and wheel sets. Each detail is available in multiple colors, including Black, Dark Blue, Silver, Grey, Carmine Red, and Cognac, giving the minimal aluminum shell a more individual look.The design itself remains rooted in Porsche’s automotive DNA, specifically drawing inspiration from the Porsche 911 Targa and its signature brushed roll bar. Functional details remain unchanged, including its telescopic handle, a TSA lock preset to “911,” and an organized interior with dividers, straps, and an integrated foldable bag for more storage. The double-wheel setup, inspired by Porsche’s Carrera Classic design, is engineered for smooth movement for the airport and the race track. The updated Porsche Design Roadster Aluminum lineup is now available in multiple sizes; click the link below to order. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 01, 2026

Porsche Design's Lightweight Chronograph 1 Pays Tribute To A 1975 Classic

For decades, Porsche has been doing things differently, fitting engines at the rear of its sports cars and even using its expertise and resources to establish its own watch brand. As if engineering and designing a chronograph of its very own wasn’t innovative enough, Ferdinand Porsche pushed the boundaries even further with the debut of Porsche Design’s all-black Chronograph 1 in 1972. It wasn’t until 1975 that the chronograph finally adopted a more traditional stainless-steel look, while still retaining its focus on form and function, like the 911. Porsche Design is excited to honor that 1975 Chronograph 1 with a new titanium all-numbered edition, tapping into its adventurous and innovative spirit. The Chronograph 1 - 1975 Limited Edition is the perfect reinterpretation of its 70s counterpart, showcasing a design crafted entirely of ultra-lightweight titanium, making history as a first for Porsche Design. Familiarity returns to the matte black bezel and dial, both of which retain their original fonts but have been updated with high-contrast Super-LumiNova white numerals and indices for legibility. The Chronograph 1 comes powered by an in-house Porsche Design WERK 01.400, a COSC-certified chronograph movement with a day-and-date display and a 48-hour power reserve. The inner workings are visible from the sapphire backcase and also feature each watch’s numbered engraving. Hand-crafted at Porsche Design’s new Timepieces Manufaktur in Grenchen, Switzerland, which celebrated its official opening in March, the all-new Chronograph 1 - 1975 Limited Edition is now available for $8,250. Shop Now

Porsche Design x Orlando Bloom Reveal A New Capsule Collection

By Tyler Rampersaud – February 25, 2026

Porsche Design x Orlando Bloom’s New Capsule Collection

Actor Orlando Bloom and Porsche Design have had a partnership for over a year in which Bloom has served as an ambassador for the automotive-inspired design house, and that partnership has now opened a new chapter, as Bloom and Porsche Design have now unveiled a new co-designed capsule collection, consisting of apparel and accessories. The pieces in the new capsule collection include a limited-edition hooded leather jacket, as well as three different colorways of the P’86007 sunglasses. The jacket is made to be reversible, with black water-repellent leather being used to combine a premium luxury material with excellent craftsmanship and dependable function. The garment also features a two-way front zip, adjustable cord stoppers at the hem, sleeves, and hood, and subtle branding indicating the collaboration on each sleeve. <- Gallery -> Meanwhile, the new Porsche Design x Orlando Bloom P’86007 sunglasses are available in three different colorways: titanium/black with grey lenses, gold/olive green with brown lenses, and black/palladium with strong blue mirrored lenses, all featuring a shield design inspired by the iconic, historic Porsche 911 Targa and the legacy of its design. Each pair of sunglasses will come with special packaging, as well as a greeting card with a personal note from Orlando Bloom. VISION DRIVE™ lens technology promises that not only will the sunglasses feature striking design, but they will also be effective on long drives and even in challenging conditions. Starting February 25, the collection will be available on the Porsche shop, as well as select Porsche Design stores. In addition, the sunglasses will be available at some specialist retailers. Marking a new chapter in its partnership with Orlando Bloom, Porsche Design’s new collaborative capsule collection with the actor showcases the house’s automotive inspiration, ingenious design, and luxury craftsmanship. Shop The Jacket Shop The Sunglasses Image Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 09, 2021

Porsche Design Spring/Summer '21 Fashion & Sport Collecti...

As seasons begin to change and plans for outdoor activities grow closer, Porsche Design gets a jump on in-season apparel, footwear, and accessories. The Spring/Summer ’21 Sport and Fashion Collections by Porsche Design features styles for all occasions, ensuring comfortable wear from head to toe. In this special, we broke down Porsche Design’s collections into business and sport-focused categories. Click on the links below the featured products to shop the entire collection featuring an array of different styles and color options. Fashion Apparel Finding new solutions - that is what Porsche Design stands for. It is not about following trends it is more about reinventing yourself. Explore the new Fashion Collection now. Category: Fashion Products: Luxury Tops and Bottoms Price Range: $65 - $2,250 Shop Fashion Apparel Footwear Whether it’s a stylish nappa boot, an athletic leather trainer or an elegant low-cut loafer, our collection offers the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Unique business and casual footwear and everything in between. Category: Business and Casual Footwear Products: Boots, Driving Shoes, Loafers, and Sneakers Price Range: $360 - $480 Shop Footwear Fashion Accessories Complete your Porsche Design Look with perfect matching Accessories. Category: Luxury Accessories Products: Belts, Bracelets, Gloves, Scarfs Price Range: $120 - $240 Shop Fashion Accessories Sports Apparel Modern technology like drirelease® Cotton keeps the material dry - from the first to the last minute of your workout. Category: Sport Products: Performance Tops and Bottoms Price Range: $59 - $409 Shop Sports Apparel Sports Bags and Accessories Perfectly matched to your sportiness. The bags and accessories of the sports collection are the perfect companion for all activities. Category: Sport Products: Bags, Bathrobes, Hats, Socks, Towels Price Range: $24- $325 Shop Sports Bags & Accessories For more Gear news, Check out Wheels X Wardrobe: Big Game Bound In The 2020 Shelby Super Snake

By Andrew Nabors – November 09, 2020

Porsche Design's New Speaker Makes A Perfect Gift

Nothing beats German Audio when it comes to precision & style. With the Holidays rapidly approaching, its time to give your loved ones something they will enjoy for years, and that is why Porsche Design's new speaker makes a perfect gift. What makes it worthy of such a noble name? Like their iconic cars, this chic design combines every feature you could ask for along with a few that will surprise you. Porsche Design Announces New and Stylish Soundbar Machined from billet aluminum, this obelisk incorporates full-range drivers, LED lighting and a bass reflex port to amplify low-range events. While it looks like 1-piece, lifting the upper portion reveals a wireless charging pad integrated with batteries that offer 20 hours of music. Using the latest Bluetooth protocols, perfect stereo sound can be had by buying a pair of them. Splashes are not a problem as it is IPX4 rated for water resistance. Click the button to learn more and stay with us for the latest in Porsche Design. Visit Porsche-Design.com

Lifestyle

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe