Maserati 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

By Edward Jones – September 22, 2021

Maserati Grecale SUV Gets a Reveal Date

A new SUV will be joining the Maserati Levante. The new Maserati Grecale is set to be unveiled to the world on November 16th during an event in Milano. Maserati says that the new Grecale will "play a key role for the Brand and transform the everyday driving experience into something outstanding and extraordinary." As for the name, it follows Maserati's pattern of naming models after famous winds, starting with the Mistral. And... that's really all we know about the new Maserati SUV for right now. So, be sure to check back with us in the future for more information. Source: Maserati

By Edward Jones – July 08, 2021

Maserati Levante Trofeo Fuoriserie Edition for Massimo Bo...

This Maserati looks as though it drove through a rainbow. Maserati has unveiled the new Levante Trofeo Fuoriserie Edition for Massimo Bottura, a one-of-a-kind luxury SUV that's a stunning display of personality. Massimo Bottura is an Italian chef patron of Osteria Francescana, a three-Michelin-star restaurant. The design of this Maserati was inspired by Bottura's past growing up in the Motor Valley. It was here that he would race through the Emilian countryside, throwing splashes of mud on the cars leaving "racing scars" as he called them. For this SUV, however, the mud has been replaced with splashes of vivid colors that are as vibrant and delightful as the dishes Bottura creates. Making the design possible is Maserati Fuoriserie, the automaker's customization program. If you're looking to have your new Maserati customized in a unique way, be sure to check out everything that Maserati Fuoriserie can accomplish by talking to your local Maserati dealership. Source: Maserati

By Andrew Nabors – April 26, 2021

Maserati Unveils Levante & Ghibli Special Editions

The F Tributo celebrates victories January 17th, 1954 was the day of Maserati's first F1 race. Behind the wheel was Juan Manuel Fangio, and it was the beginning of a long winning streak. Fans of Fangio will enjoy the new F Tributo editions of the Levante and Ghibli. Both models are offered in 2 exclusive colors: Rosso Tributo and Azzurro Tributo. Several new styles of 21" wheels are also part of the package. The same exterior theme is replicated inside, and the vibrance will keep you smiling 24/7. Our Maserati dealers have hot Summer deals, so click the button to learn more! Browse Maserati For Sale Images (C) Maserati

By Edward Jones – April 19, 2021

Maserati Levante Hybrid Unveiled

Maserati has just unveiled their first electrified SUV. As automakers push for an electric future, we're starting to see more and more of their electrified models come to fruition. Maserati, for example, has released the Ghibli Hybrid and is even planning an electric version of the MC20. Now, they have just unveiled the new Levante Hybrid during the Shanghai Auto Show. This new model comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's mated to a 48-volt hybrid system. In total, the Levante Hybrid has a power output of 330 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. That's to the immediate electric power, all-wheel drive and ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the Levante Hybrid can run from 0 to 62 mph in 6 seconds. A price and release date of the new Maserati Levante Hybrid has yet to be announced, but expect info to be announced soon. See All Levantes For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 07, 2021

Maserati MC20 ARIA Unveiled by Seven Designs

Only 25 examples will be offered. The battle for V6 supercars is heating up. Those that won't abide by the McLaren Artura will enjoy the Maserati MC20 Aria from Seven Designs. This carbon fiber kit is based on a design language they have cultivated over three decades. Based in NYC, their goal is to evoke new emotions from Maserati owners by perfecting the lines of the car. If you missed the reveal, their latest offering has 630 horsepower and 542 lb-ft of torque; ad it hits 60 mph in only 2.9 seconds. Body kids are very divisive in this office, so we need you to tell us if this is a Home Run or foul ball. If you haven't confirmed your allocation for the MC20 our dealers stand ready to open the door to their next generation of performance. Find your new Maserati by clicking the button and stay with us for all your MC20 updates. Shop Maserati Images (C) 7 Designs

By Andrew Nabors – March 29, 2021

Maserati x Fragment Design Teases Something Unprecedented

Japanese Fashion Meets Italian Excellence Although they might seem worlds apart, Maserati & Fragment Design have teased something unprecedented. This collaboration first hit our screens last month when we saw Hiroshi Fujiwara combine his logo with the classic Trident of Maserati. He has influenced almost every aspect of streetwear and now it is on to sculpting a new car. The outline was traced on an Instagram earlier today, and it could be the long-awaited return of the GranTurismo. What we see is definitely influenced by a new Ghibli for sale, and that's fine with us. His other collaborations include TAG Heuer, Bulgari, and Cyberpunk 2077, so this will undoubtedly be Haute Coture. Tell us what you are looking for in a new Maserati and stay with us as the story evolves. Shop Maserati https://www.instagram.com/p/CM_0XeqK3sz/

By Andrew Nabors – March 11, 2021

Watch a Maserati MC20 Drifting in the Alps

The hills are alive with the sounds of 621 horsepower, so let's watch a Maserati MC20 drifting in the Alps. It looks like this Italian Stallion is ready to take on any competitor, so engineers are enduring the frozen conditions to make sure your MC20 will be flawless. The tests involve everything from climate control to the flexibility of rubber and composite parts. The Nettuno V6 is all-new, so the dry-sump oil system needs to feed the turbos and bearings regardless of the temperature. Here in Clearwater, several automakers use our hellish summers to heat soak their upcoming models, so it's nice to see the other end of the spectrum. Maserati is also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Bora today, one of the most beautiful cars ever made. Click the button to find one for yourself! Shop Maserati https://www.facebook.com/Maserati/videos/1072309433258710 Image (C) Maserati S.P. A.

By Andrew Nabors – March 09, 2021

Master the MC20 at Maserati Driving Experience 2021

You deserve an Italian vacation after being locked down for a year. That's why we invite you to master the new MC20 at Maserati Driving Experience 2021. Varano is an ancient city on the road between Rome and Paris. Should you feel up for a challenge, this will be the 22nd year for the Master Maserati driving courses. These long weekends occupy 10 dates between May 27th to October 14th, and they are tailored for your skillset. The school has trained 7,000 owners from over 50 countries, but this is the first time they have included a supercar. The MC20 offers 621 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque and our dealers will be happy to sign you up. Stay with us for all your Maserati news. Shop Maserati Images (C) Maserati S.p.A.

By Edward Jones – February 18, 2021

First Images of Maserati Grecale SUV Prototype Revealed

Images of the new Maserati Grecale SUV have just been released by the automaker which shows a prototype zooming around the plant in Modena. Currently, Maserati has prototype examples of the Grecale going through tests that take place on roads, circuits and, of course, off-road. The Grecale will be built at Maserati's plant in Cassino, Italy where they are planning an 800 million Euro investment. Expect to see its full reveal before 2021 ends. In the meantime, be sure to check out a 2021 Maserati Quattroporte being unleased on the Autobahn. Source: Maserati

By Edward Jones – February 16, 2021

2021 Maserati Quattroporte Trofeo Unleashed on the Autobahn

The 2021 Maserati Quattroporte Trofeo has four doors, style, and the accolade of being the fastest Quattroporte model. Its V8 engine lays out 580 horsepower for a top speed of 203 mph and 0 to 60 mph time of just 4.2 seconds. A sedan with these kinds of specs is more than tempting and that's why AutoTopNL took one out to the Autobahn. In the video up above, you'll them rip the luxury sedan down one of the most famous roads in the world, thanks to its rules regarding speed limits. Click play up above to see and hear the Maserati in action. Used Maseratis For Sale

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