McLaren 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 Andrew Nabors – September 23, 2019

McLaren GT Launch Mode Outruns Almost Everything

Dr. Wernher von Braun developed the V2 rocket to hit London from Germany before the transistor was invented. As it was one of the most heinous weapons of WWII, he and his rocketeers made sure most of them were duds. PRO TIP: if you are losing a war, don't fuel your rockets with moonshine! Many V2 rockets were launched near empty. After being hired by NASA, the Saturn V that took us to the moon was also his creation. As good as his Saturn V was, it seems that the English have won the battle for a perfect launch. In the latest upload from Motorsport Magazine, the McLaren GT Launch Mode outruns almost anything. Browse McLaren GT For Sale Back to the Apollo program, a moon launch took 13 seconds to leave the tower at a speed of 60 mph. For comparison, the McLaren GT takes 17 seconds to reach 143 mph, and it is much more affordable than a rocket. There is only 1 Saturn rocket on the market, and it is free if you can move it from the Marshall Space Flight Center. However, our dealers have a full lineup of new McLarens that are much more practical. Click the button above to find one near you and stay with us for the world's fastest cars for sale. " width="680"> Related: How To Configure Your McLaren GT McLaren GT by MSO Heading to Pebble Beach

By Andrew Nabors – August 22, 2019

McLaren GT Luggage Set by MSO

As we were watching the cars roll onto the Concept Lawn at Pebble Beach, the McLaren GT took our breath away. This comfortable Grand Tourer has all the power McLaren is known for, along with a comfortable interior and room for a road trip. To make the best use of the car's unique cargo areas, here is the McLaren GT Luggage Set by MSO. We didn't realize so much could fit in the car when it was unpacked. The set consists of four pieces: a garment case, weekend bag, cabin bag, and a full-size golf bag. Each piece is made by hand in Italy from the same Semi-Aniline leather and stitching that adorns the car's interior. Stitching and piping have been matched to the two interior options: Pioneer or Luxe. Initially the set will be available in Namaka Blue, Burnished Copper, and Veridian Green. U.S. Pricing is as follows: McLaren GT luggage - Garment case | $2,300 Dimensions: 23” x 22.2” x 4.7” Volume: 1.39cu.ft Specification: semi-aniline leather with patterns stitching, features two external pockets and bespoke McLaren GT aluminum zips, soft grey lining featuring the McLaren logo and includes metal clothes hanger To be placed: on top of other luggage without restricting the view from the rear of the car Black Pioneer: offering black leather with barolo pioneer stitching and barolo piping Black Luxe: offering black leather with black luxe stitching and black piping Porcelain Luxe: offering porcelain leather with porcelain luxe stitching and porcelain piping McLaren GT luggage – Weekend bag | $2,500 Dimensions: 20.2” x 8.2” x 11.4” Volume: 1.1cu.ft Specification: semi-aniline leather with patterns stitching, complemented by 38 degrees styled integrated pocket, a folded leather handle and carry strap, features two external pockets, bespoke McLaren GT aluminum zips and soft grey lining featuring the McLaren logo To be placed: greatest versatility with the rear luggage being able to accommodate several in combination with the cabin bag and will also fit in front luggage space Black Pioneer: offering black leather with Barolo pioneer stitching and Barolo piping Black Luxe: offering black leather with black luxe stitching and black piping Porcelain Luxe: offering porcelain leather with porcelain luxe stitching and porcelain piping McLaren GT luggage - Cabin bag | $3,800 Dimensions (including wheels): 14.1” x 21.6” x 7.8” Volume: 1.38 cu.ft Specification: semi-aniline leather with patterns stitching, a three-piece telescopic handle, a document pocket, top and side folded leather handles, features one internal pocket, bespoke McLaren GT aluminum zips and soft grey lining featuring the McLaren logo To be placed: rear luggage space of the McLaren GT, with up to two bags fitting alongside other pieces Black Pioneer: offering black leather with Barolo pioneer stitching and Barolo piping Black Luxe: offering black leather with black luxe stitching and black piping Porcelain Luxe: offering porcelain leather with porcelain luxe stitching and porcelain piping McLaren GT - Full-size golf bag | $6,800 Dimensions: 9.4” x 47.2” x 9-12.6” Volume: 2.31-3.2cu.in Specification: semi-aniline leather with patterns stitching, accommodating a full set of golf clubs with several, front-facing pockets, handle for short-distance lifting and carrying, features a securable rain hood and integrated security straps, features four external pockets, bespoke McLaren GT aluminum zips and soft grey lining featuring the McLaren logo, four central dividers for a full set of clubs To be placed: rear load space of the McLaren GT Black Pioneer: offering black leather with Barolo pioneer stitching and Barolo piping Black Luxe: offering black leather with black luxe stitching and black piping Porcelain Luxe: offering porcelain leather with porcelain luxe stitching and porcelain piping Of course, you will need a McLaren GT to go along with this set, so click the link below to find our dealer near you. They have great incentives on the 720S Spider, so stay with us for all your McLaren news. Browse McLaren 720S For Sale " width="680"> Related: New McLaren GT by MSO Heading to Pebble Beach How to Configure Your McLaren GT

By Edward Jones – August 14, 2019

New McLaren GT by MSO Heading to Pebble Beach

A new McLaren GT by MSO will be on display at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, right on the Concept Car Lawn, on Sunday, August 18. This one-off example of the GT is full of options that MSO has in store for the new model. This includes the new MSO Defined Flux Silver paint, MSO Bespoke Sating Graphite paint on the aero components, Gloss Black Diamond Cut wheels and a lot more. There's even an MSO Painted Key Back that goes along with this car. Ansar Ali, Managing Director, McLaren Special Operations, had this to say about MSO's capabilities with the GT: "We believe that the McLaren GT has class-leading elegance and sophistication, and is the perfect car to further personalize, whether it be through an MSO Defined or MSO Bespoke option, or alternatively, a unique, customer-inspired design that MSO delivers a stunning interpretation of.” see all mclarens for sale Also Check Out: McLaren Senna Price, Specs, Photos & Review Jason Statham Pulls Up to “Hobbs & Shaw” London Premier in McLaren Senna What it Takes to be a Bugatti Test Driver

By Andrew Nabors – May 15, 2019

Meet the New McLaren GT

Carbon fiber supercars are fun, but only a few enthusiasts would consider them for a road trip. McLaren made waves when they added a hatchback version of the 570 series, and customers responded with open arms. Seeing a need for a more practical model, work began on a true luxury Grand Tourer. After years in development, meet the new McLaren GT for sale. Starting with a clean sheet, their goals were to improve comfort and offer world-class cargo space. A new chassis was based on the MonoCell II. Adapting it for travel required a new roofline and structure to support the hatch. MonoCell II-T sets it apart from all other models. To make sure it offers a plush interior, the GT borrows the same high-quality materials found in the upcoming Speedtail. Innovations Because the chassis is incredibly strong, engineers were able to dial back the suspension stiffness. Sensors scan the road ahead, and adjust the shocks accordingly. The new Proactive Damping Control has three levels, Comfort, Sport and Track. It is also their highest vehicle to-date, giving ample room for speed bumps and heinous driveway connectors. With the front suspension raised, the approach angle is 13 degrees, far better than American muscle cars. A focus on low-speed maneuvering prompted the brake response and hydraulic power steering to have a more traditional feel. Under the rear hatch is a whopping 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Enough for plenty of groceries, golf clubs, or luggage for your journey. It is complimented by an additional 5.3 cubic feet under the hood for a total of 20.1 How? In order to make this possible, a de-tuned version of the Senna's 4.0L twin turbo V8 was mounted very low. You will hardly believe that 612 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque are hidden beneath the package tray. Taking more inspiration from the Speedtail, the roof is electrochromatic and the rear pillars are glazed Gorilla glass. Nappa leather is standard, and Alcantara is an optional upgrade. Cashmere will be available later this year, for a small surcharge. Insulation abounds inside and out, and it starts with softer motor mounts. In addition to routing the exhaust under the car, low frequency sounds have been eliminated. The audio you want comes from a 12-speaker system by Bowers & Wilkins. They have adopted carbon fiber for the subs, and Kevlar for the mids and tweeters. Invoking the accelerator will drown them out as you reach 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and 124 mph in 9.0. With a top speed of 203 mph, it is a perfect contender for a Cannonball Run. When? Has McLaren gone soft? We don't think so, this is just a great opportunity to build something for everyone. Your McLaren dealer is taking orders, and deliveries are slated for the end of the year. The price you pay to have the best of both worlds is only $210,000, and it is a bargain for what you will experience. This one truly intrigues us, so stay with us for all your McLaren GT updates. Browse All McLaren For Sale P.S. The GT must be aimed at Americans because it has a center console, arm rest and even a cup holder- what an age to be alive!

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