The new McLaren GT is a radically different kind of McLaren, a unique interpretation of a modern Grand Tourer that challenges the conventions of the category. Sleek, elegant and muscular, the superlight new GT is a compelling blend of beautiful design, high-quality innovative materials and exceptional refinement in combination with true supercar performance and the benchmark driving dynamics and engagement for which McLaren is renowned.
Positioned alongside the established Sports, Super and Ultimate Series families, this is a new McLaren for a new audience and provides an alternative to existing products in an expanding market segment. In re-imagining the spirit of traditional Grand Touring - long-distance driving in comfort, at higher speeds and with room for luggage - McLaren has also redefined the modern GT ownership experience with a car that is lighter, faster and more engaging than existing products in the segment, with greater space, comfort and usability.
Like all McLarens, the new McLaren GT has a carbon fibre structure that possesses exceptional strength and rigidity while enabling unparalleled driving dynamics and lightest-in-class kerbweight. At 1,530kg (DIN), the McLaren GT is more than 130kg lighter than its closest core competitor and quite literally hundreds of kilogrammes less than some other cars in the segment. And with 620PS from its 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged McLaren V8 engine, the superlight new GT possesses a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 405PS-per-tonne.
The low height of the engine and positioning of the exhaust system has allowed the volume, shape and usability of the luggage bay to be optimised. A golf bag or two pairs of 185cm skis and boots as well as luggage can be carried with ease, while a further 150 litres of storage at the front means the new McLaren GT can accommodate a total of 570 litres.
The interior is a cosseting space designed to delight on longer journeys, but with all the essentials for focused, high-performance driving; the seating position, location of controls and forward visibility are as important here as they are in any McLaren. Technology and modern craftsmanship share equal prominence, with the finest high-quality materials complemented by features such as the most sophisticated McLaren infotainment system to date and hidden-until-lit ambient lighting.
Nappa leather trim features as standard but this can be upgraded to softgrain luxury leather or Alcantara®, depending on vehicle specification and customer preference. SuperFabric® trim for the rear luggage bay is another option, the innovative woven fabric infused with a layer of tiny armoured guard plates providing increased resistance to stains, cuts, nicks and abrasions, as well as being breathable, easy to clean and quick to dry.
There are two levels above the standard specification - Pioneer and Luxe - and beyond this the opportunity to choose options from McLaren Special Operations (MSO) for both interior and exterior enhancements, including even lighter carbon fibre components and 14 MSO Defined paint colours. This is in addition to the 16 colours available within the McLaren GT palette, five of which - Black Ingot; Viridian; Amaranth Red; Burnished Copper and Namaka Blue - are newly introduced for this model.
Creating a new type of McLaren saw the McLaren design team embracing the visual history of Grand Touring cars while remaining true to the philosophies of all McLaren design. The long, elegant exterior lines widely recognised as Grand Tourer design cues are executed in the new McLaren GT according to the aerodynamic principles that define every McLaren. The width and stance of the car are emphasised at the front by the signature 'hammerhead line' that runs horizontally across the nose and draws the eye to the sides of the vehicle, while at the rear an integrated fixed rear wing, large diffuser and substantial exhaust tailpipes reinforce that this is a Grand Tourer with supercar performance.
At almost 4.7 metres long, the new McLaren GT is longer than any of the cars in the McLaren Sports or Super Series. The front and rear overhangs also extend further than is traditional for McLaren, but the 10-degree front approach angle (13-degree with vehicle lift engaged) allows the new GT to cope with the most aggressive traffic calming measures; in combination with underbody clearance of 110mm (130mm with vehicle lift) this ensures the car is eminently usable in all urban situations, competitive not only with all rivals, but in 'lift' mode the equal of mainstream sedans.
A new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine produces 620PS. Designated M840TE, it further expands the family of McLaren V8 engines. Bespoke to the new GT, it has the immense power and torque and superior exhaust sound quality that are the hallmarks of a true Grand Tourer. Peak torque of 630Nm is produced between 5,500rpm and 6,500rpm, with more than 95% available from 3,000rpm to 7,250rpm.
The new engine is mated to a 7-speed SSG transmission to deliver linear, seamless and relentless acceleration. With a launch-control function optimising acceleration from a standing start, 0-100km/h (0-62mph) is achieved in only 3.2 seconds (0-60mph in 3.1 seconds), and 0-200km/h (0-124mph) in just 9.0 seconds. The maximum speed of the McLaren GT is 326km/h (203mph).
The suspension, steering and brakes are all bespoke and optimised to provide an outstanding Grand Touring driving experience, with inherent balance, responsiveness and precision complemented by superior ride comfort to any other McLaren.
The suspension is a double-wishbone design in lightweight aluminium, paired with hydraulic dampers, an array of sensors and a powerful control unit to deliver Proactive Damping Control (PDC). Governed by the most sophisticated iteration yet of the pioneering Optimal Control Theory software algorithm developed for the Proactive Chassis Control suspension of the McLaren 720S, PDC uses inputs from sensors to 'read' the road ahead, interpreting what is likely to happen next and reacting predictively in just two milliseconds.
Driving precision and enjoyment is further enhanced by hydraulic steering, the system using a single software 'map' across Comfort, Sport and Track modes to deliver optimal feel and response. Reflecting the requirements of the new McLaren GT, it also provides increased assistance at low speeds to aid urban driving and parking, without the loss of rewarding feedback at higher speeds.
And just as the steering response perfectly suits the wide range of Grand Touring use cases, so too do the tyres and brakes: McLaren and technical partner Pirelli have developed a bespoke P ZERO™ tyre for the new McLaren GT that meets the demands of high-performance driving and comfort and refinement in equal measure. 21-inch alloy rear wheels, the largest ever fitted to a McLaren, are paired with 20-inch wheels at the front and are available in 7- or 15-spoke designs. The high-performance braking system delivers across the full range of Grand Touring requirements, from precise pedal feel and hard deceleration when slowing from higher speeds to usability and comfort at lower speeds or when holding the vehicle in traffic, where less pedal effort is preferable. Carbon ceramic brakes and lightweight aluminium calipers are available as an option.
A beautiful lightweight body
Creating a new type of McLaren-saw the McLaren design team embrace the visual history of Grand Touring cars while approaching the project from a uniquely McLaren angle. The long, elegant exterior lines widely recognised as Grand Tourer design cues are executed in the new McLaren GT according to the aerodynamic principles that define every McLaren and crafted in lightweight aluminium. The muscular rear fenders - another design feature commonplace in Grand Touring history - are an example in the GT of the form of every McLaren being true to its function, incorporating the air intakes for the high-temperature radiators that cool the engine.
At almost 4.7 metres long, the new McLaren is longer than any McLaren Sports or Super Series model. The front and rear overhangs extend further than is traditional for McLaren cars, but the 10-degree approach angle at the front (13-degree with vehicle lift engaged) means the new GT can cope with the most aggressive traffic calming measures. In combination with underbody clearance of 110mm (130mm with vehicle lift) this ensures the car is usable in all urban situations; not only is it competitive with all rivals, but in 'lift' mode it is the equal of mainstream sedans.
The width and stance of the new McLaren GT are emphasised at the front by the signature 'hammerhead line' that runs horizontally across the nose and draws the eye out to the sides of the vehicle. The front splitter echoes this elegant line and generates peak aerodynamic pressure at its centre-point, guiding airflow over the bonnet's crisp contours, under the vehicle and into four, low-temperature radiator ducts located in the front bumper.
Sleek, jewel-like LED headlights include sequential LED indicators, automatic rain and light sensors, and a 'tourist function' to quickly adjust the light beam for right-hand drive or left-hand drive territories. Static Adaptive LED headlights are optionally available, distinguished by enhanced brightwork on the headlight bezels. Fully digital, these innovative LED units automatically direct the light beam in line with steering inputs from standstill to maximum speed, improving visibility through corners without the need for heavier electric motors.
From the LED headlights, a strong line runs back through the peak of each front fender, helping a driver to position the McLaren GT on the road, before flowing past the base of the A-pillar and gliding delicately down from the beltline. This defined line, together with sharp door creases that flow from the trailing edge of the front wheelarch to the rear intake and rear fender, further serves to 'connect' the design of the car and enhance its elegant design.
The McLaren GT's dihedral doors, which are unique in the Grand Touring segment, offer not only a dramatic visual signature when open but have been optimised for use in tight parking spaces, allowing occupants unhindered egress and ingress. True to McLaren's design ethos of all features having a distinct purpose, broad, flowing rear haunches house dramatic rear air intakes to feed high-temperature radiators and cool the 620PS engine.
A teardrop - recognised as the fastest shape in nature - forms the glasshouse and is encircled by a dark collar at the beltline which tapers back into glazed C-pillars and a full-length glazed tailgate, its trailing edge punctuated by an integrated fixed rear wing. The wing is positioned above an open area at the back of the McLaren GT, evacuating heat from the engine bay while also mirroring the distinctive 'arrowhead' graphic of the iconic McLaren F1 supercar. Blade LED taillights are seamlessly integrated, the blade's ultra-slim design also aiding heat extraction by increasing the open area.
A large rear diffuser and substantial exhaust tailpipes are further reminders that this is a Grand Tourer with supercar performance, while a flat underfloor assists the McLaren GT in meeting its aerodynamic targets without the need for a large spoiler.
Panoramic roof options for an even lighter, airier cabin
A solid composite roof is standard on the new McLaren GT, with a Panoramic Glass Roof with Privacy Glass or Electrochromic Panoramic Roof available optionally, further enhancing the sense of space and refinement in the already light and airy McLaren GT cabin. Each features an interlayer to absorb solar radiation and provide additional noise suppression for increased comfort and refinement. The electrochromic option, offered through McLaren Special Operations, takes the concept a step further, using an electrical charge that passes through the glass panel and acts on particles contained within, it can switch from opaque to transparent via five stages in-between at the touch of a button. With the ignition off, the roof defaults to its fully opaque setting, ensuring the McLaren GT's cabin remains cool even on very hot days.
A stiff, lightweight carbon core
McLaren has pioneered the use of carbon fibre monocoques in motorsport since 1981, when the ground-breaking MP4/1 Formula 1 car clinched victory at the British GP. Its lightweight but incredibly strong structure heralded a quantum leap in Formula 1 safety standards and this same expertise has informed every McLaren road car created since.
The new McLaren GT is no exception, its carbon fibre passenger cell - unique in the Grand Touring segment - possessing exceptional strength and rigidity while enabling generous interior space and impressive in-car refinement. The bespoke MonoCell II-T monocoque - the T denoting 'Touring'- is also key to the unparalleled driving dynamics of the GT, which are underpinned by a lightest-in-class kerbweight of 1,530kg (3,373lbs) DIN. More than 130kg (287lbs) lighter than its closest core competitor and literally hundreds of kilogrammes less than other cars in the segment, the superlight McLaren GT -which is powered by a 620PS, 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine - additionally enjoys a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 405PS-per-tonne.
The reduced mass also significantly benefits agility and braking performance, contributing to the dynamic characteristics of the McLaren GT being as impressive as its incredible straight-line performance. Additionally, the light weight of the car has allowed suspension spring rates to be reduced, which in conjunction with the Proactive Damping Control technology that is standard on the new McLaren GT, improves ride quality with no detriment to dynamics.
Lightweight carbon fibre upper structure optimised for dynamic performance and luggage capacity
The body structure of the new McLaren GT delivers reduced weight, increased strength and improved visibility over a steel or aluminium alternative. The entire upper structure accounts for just 13.1kg of the MonoCell II-T's already extremely low total weight of 87.1kg and lowers the centre of gravity to the benefit of dynamic capabilities. The rear luggage bay offers a generous space below the front-hinged, full-length glazed tailgate, the low height of the engine and positioning of the exhaust system allowing for up to 420 litres of stowage with a golf bag or two pairs of 185cm skis and boots or a snowboard as well as luggage able to be carried with ease. A further 150 litres of space at the front - comfortably enough to stow two overnight bags - means the new McLaren GT can accommodate a segment-leading total of 570 litres.
The light, strong and stiff MonoCell II-T carbon fibre core has the glazed C-pillars and rear-quarter windows incorporated, enhancing rearward vision and bringing still more light into an inherently spacious and uncluttered cabin. Ease of entry and egress was a key target from the start of development, the doors swinging upwards with even greater ease than on other McLarens and the sills sweeping downwards where occupants' feet swing in and out of the cabin.
Focus on refinement
Ambient refinement has also been a priority from the outset, the analysis of noise pathways into the cabin being a primary consideration. Emphasis has been placed on minimising structure-borne noise, while low-frequency sounds emitting from the carbon fibre structure are reduced. The transmission of mechanical noises from the engine bay is also lessened by extensive use of lightweight NVH materials, including for the headliner and on the floor, rear bulkhead, doors and inside the luggage compartment.
The same materials also prevent heat transfer from the powertrain to the luggage area.
Optimised wheel-arch liners and seals reduce road and wind noise, and both the glazed rear tailgate and optional panoramic roof feature a special sound and solar film interlayer to minimise both solar and sound rays, again enhancing refinement.
Refined, driver-focused interior
The elegant interior of the McLaren GT is a cosseting space designed to delight on longer journeys with exceptional levels of attention paid to the quality of materials and occupant comfort, but with all the essentials for focused, high performance driving; a perfect seating position, the location of controls and excellent forward visibility past slim windscreen pillars are as important here as they are in any McLaren.
Delicate, organic curves sweep across the instrument panel and into the doors, shrink-wrapping around the audio speakers and floating central touchscreen much like the aluminium body panels wrap around hard engineering points. Technology and modern craftsmanship share equal prominence, the finest high-quality materials being complemented by features such as the most sophisticated McLaren infotainment system to date, hidden-until-lit ambient lighting and the option of an electrochromic glazed panel that darkens or lightens at the touch of a button in lieu of the standard carbon fibre composite gloss black roof. Machined and knurled aluminium switches and controls contrast with Satin Black surrounds for the infotainment screen, steering wheel clasp, window switches, gear-selection console and air vent housings, with further decorative elements finished in Satin Silver. A 12-speaker, Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system, featuring carbon fibre sub-bass woofers and Kevlar mid-range drive units, is available.
The Comfort seats fitted as standard are unique to the McLaren GT and have been optimised for long-distance comfort, with the perfect amount of padding and providing shoulder and back support in combination with superb lateral control. The Comfort seats are upholstered in authentic hand-stitched Carbon Black Nappa leather and complemented by Carbon Black Nappa leather for the steering wheel, leather door inserts, with black stitching and carpets.
The rear luggage bay is accessible via a full-length, rear-opening glazed tailgate with a strong, stiff and lightweight carbon fibre frame. A soft-close function is standard; buyers can specify electrically powered operation as part of the optional Premium Pack. The glazed C-pillars, rear window and rear quarter windows are also available with privacy glass.
Pioneer and Luxe specifications
For ultimate exclusivity, the McLaren GT is also available with Pioneer and Luxe enhanced interior specifications, each distinguished by signature colour themes and power-adjusted Heated Memory Comfort seats. A 'comfort entry and exit' function sees the seats move back to their maximum rearward position while the electrically adjustable steering column fully retracts, to give the easiest possible ingress and egress.
Featuring embossed McLaren 'Speedmarks' on the headrests, the luxurious seats are upholstered in softgrain luxury leather, with the same material used on the sill finishers, door inserts, rear bulkhead and rear-quarter trim. On Luxe models, the leather extends to the full interior. Depending on specification, Alcantara® can be chosen and McLaren cashmere will be available as an additional choice from late 2019, the first time this exclusive material has been used in a production vehicle.
As standard, the luggage bay floor is upholstered in attractive and durable Carbon Black leatherette, but softgrain luxury leather or SuperFabric® trim can also be specified. The latter is an innovative woven fabric infused with a layer of tiny armoured guard plates to provide increased resistance to stains, cuts, nicks and abrasions; it is also breathable, easy to clean and quick to dry. Superfabric® trim is available matched to the interior design in Jet Black, Porcelain or Dove Grey although for enhanced practicality Jet Black can be specified in combination with any colour.
Pioneer
The two Pioneer interior choices dial up the McLaren GT's sporting credentials, with lightweight Alcantara® alongside softgrain luxury leather in Jet Black or Barolo for a technical, focused feel. A contrast stitch pattern contributes to the distinctive design. The luggage bay floor is trimmed in Jet Black SuperFabric® trim.
Luxe
The choice of seven Luxe interiors give traditional elegance a contemporary McLaren twist. Perforated softgrain luxury leather seats are ribbed and embellished with a bespoke non-contrast Luxe stitch, with the three full-colour choices extending to Jet Black, Vintage Tan and Barolo, all with Jet Black SuperFabric® for the luggage area. These core themes can be paired with additional colours for a light and airy ambience: Jet Black with Porcelain, Vintage Tan with Porcelain and a deep Ink Blue with Porcelain, all with a Porcelain SuperFabric® luggage floor. The seventh Luxe interior specification combines Dove Grey softgrain luxury leather seats with a Dove Grey SuperFabric® luggage area.
The specification of all Pioneer and Luxe interiors is further differentiated by a high-gloss Piano Black finish for the central infotainment screen, window switches, gear-selector console and air-vent housings, with brushed aluminium and brushed satin-silver decorative elements. Sophisticated hidden-until-lit ambient lighting also features: cold to the touch and seemingly solid metallic, subtle chrome trim highlights are embedded in the door casings and passenger side of the dashboard, and glow softly once the ignition sequence is activated. Six colours can be individually selected via the central touchscreen.
Luggage tailored to the McLaren GT
For the ultimate personalisation and convenience, the McLaren GT is available with a bespoke luggage set, comprising a cabin bag, weekend bag, garment carrier and golf bag. The luggage, which is handcrafted in Italy and made from the same leather and SuperFabric® materials used in the car's cabin, is available separately to order. Each piece can be colour-matched to the interior of the car and comes with a luxurious soft grey lining featuring the McLaren logo.
McLaren's most sophisticated infotainment system
The infotainment system developed for the new McLaren GT is the company's most sophisticated to date. Among the fastest-operating in any vehicle courtesy of a super-quick 10-core processor, it also features industry-standard HERE® navigation mapping and real-time traffic information.
The seven-inch touchscreen is arranged in a portrait format, allowing occupants to sit closer together than a landscape layout, to the benefit of vehicle dynamics, and is positioned within easy reach on the McLaren GT's floating central console. The bespoke display is distinguished by graphics inspired by the control systems of luxury private jets - clear, crisp and restrained and presented in neutral colours that are easy to read at-a-glance both day and night.
The driver interface of the new McLaren GT operates in a similar manner to a smartphone with menus accessed via swiping from the top, bottom and sides of the screen. Functions include satellite navigation with HERE® navigation mapping and real-time traffic information, Bluetooth telephony, media streaming and voice activation. DAB digital radio (or Sirius satellite radio in North America) is standard. Heating and ventilation controls are also incorporated within the touchscreen, ensuring ease of use and reducing both visual clutter and vehicle weight.
A 12.3" TFT screen is positioned directly ahead of the driver and provides key vehicle information at a glance. Continuing the aeronautical theme, the aircraft-inspired instrument graphics deliver clear, crisp displays that are easy to read. In addition to vehicle speed, gear selection and engine revs, the instrument cluster can also display turn-by-turn navigation, phone calls and tyre temperatures and pressures.
The TFT screen is vehicle mode dependent, with information prioritised in line with the driver's choice of either Comfort, Sport or Track vehicle mode. Comfort, for instance, prioritises vehicle speed to assist the driver in complying with speed limits, while Track displays engine revs and gear selection most prominently. The display can be individually tailored to driver preferences, regardless of vehicle mode.
When the reversing camera is specified, the image behind the vehicle is displayed when reverse gear is selected, keeping the driver's eyeline as high as possible.
Exceptional audio quality, minimum weight
The four-speaker system McLaren Audio System fitted as standard in the GT is the lightest-ever audio system fitted to a production McLaren but achieves this feat while still offering exceptional sound quality. Two 165mm sub woofers relay mid- to low frequencies with a clear, punchy signature, while a pair of high-performance tweeters give impressive clarity to higher frequencies.
For peerless sound quality, McLaren has partnered with leading audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins to create the state-of-the-art 12-speaker, 1200W Bowers & Wilkins Audio Speaker System. Featuring the innovative Nautilus spiral speaker system - the pinnacle of the Bowers & Wilkins range - the system comprises two 200mm carbon fibre and rohacell sub-woofers; five 100mm Kevlar mid-range drive units and five 25mm aluminium Nautilus tweeters.
Designed to minimise weight and maximise interior space, the bespoke system is also optimised to deliver the best possible acoustic performance within the McLaren GT's unique cabin architecture. A speaker integrated at the top of the dashboard drastically reduces diffraction for optimal clarity, while lightweight, highly advanced componentry such as Kevlar speaker cones and Neodymium magnets contribute to the cleanest possible performance throughout the entire sound spectrum.
620PS and 630Nm ensure scintillating performance with refinement and efficiency
A new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, designated M840TE, has been developed for the McLaren GT. With 620PS and peak torque of 630N, it is also distinguished by superior exhaust sound quality appropriate for a true Grand Tourer. A 7-speed SSG transmission enables seamless acceleration and overall the powertrain balances exceptional refinement and efficiency with high levels of driver engagement.
A launch-control function optimises acceleration from a standing start, with 0-100km/h (0-62mph) achieved in 3.2 seconds (0-60mph in 3.1 seconds) and 0-200km/h (0-124mph) is dispatched in 9.0 seconds. The maximum speed of the McLaren GT is 326km/h (203mph).
The M840TE is also the most fuel-efficient twin-turbocharged V8 ever designed by McLaren. Compliant with the latest EU6D and China 6 regulations and featuring stop/start technology as standard, the new McLaren GT achieves CO2 emissions of 245g/km and 10.8 l/100km (26.2mpg) under the NEDC EU Combined cycle, giving it a touring range in the order of 400 miles (almost 650km). Assessment using the more stringent WLTP test cycle produces a still-unrivalled 11.9 l/100km (23.7mpg) Combined result and CO2 emissions of 270g/km.
Mounted behind the driver for improved agility compared to other Grand Touring vehicles, the lightweight engine features an aluminium block and cylinder heads, with a flat-plane crankshaft contributing to its free-revving nature. An inherently compact design allows the engine to be positioned low in the chassis, benefitting the centre of gravity for enhanced handling as well as facilitating a large rear luggage area.
A high compression ratio of 9.4:1and low-inertia turbochargers ensure rapid time to torque, providing both maximum flexibility from low engine revs and instant response during more spirited driving. The engine's breadth of ability is evident in peak power of 620PS being produced at a thrilling 7,500rpm, yet more than 95% of the torque of 630Nm being available from 3,000rpm to 7,250rpm and maximum torque between 5,500rpm and 6,500rpm. The result is searing acceleration enabled by linear, seemingly limitless thrust that feels relentless in its delivery.
The new McLaren GT is a Grand Tourer equally at ease cruising at low speeds through urban environments as it is providing exhilarating enjoyment on the open road. The driver can accentuate these characteristics via the Active Dynamics Panel, with a choice of Comfort, Sport and Track powertrain modes selectable according to preference.
Active exhaust provides both discretion and excitement
The bespoke exhaust system spans a similarly broad spectrum to the McLaren GT's new V8 engine, its aural range offering everything from the subtlest of exhaust notes (for a McLaren...) in Comfort mode to a truly rich and compelling performance signature at higher throttle loads and engine revs in Track mode.
Twin active exhaust valves that open or close dependent on engine load and revs are key. The valves are closed in Comfort mode when the ignition is pressed, enabling a quieter engine start and remain closed during gentle applications of throttle - even at 160km/h (100mph) in seventh gear for example - to increase cabin refinement.
Sport and Track powertrain modes deliver equally impressive refinement during everyday driving, but with the exhaust valves opening at lower engine loads and rpm for a more pronounced and engaging exhaust note. The active valves can even be opened when stationary by selecting either of these modes. Regardless of mode selected, under high loads and at high revs the difference between overall volume levels is minimal - so, even in Comfort mode, the McLaren GT can switch from supreme refinement to a far sportier exhaust sound at the press of the accelerator.
For customers wishing to 'dial-up' the McLaren GT's sporting credentials still further, a sports exhaust system is available as an option. Finished in natural titanium, the exhaust brings an even richer tone with more bass notes as well as being louder.
Smooth, super-fast gear shifts
The calibration of the 7-speed SSG dual-clutch gearbox mirrors the philosophy behind the engine development programme for the new GT, with strong torque delivery available in all gears and the shift characteristics configurable via the modes accessed using the Active Dynamics Panel.
In Comfort mode, the software strategy places an emphasis on the smoothness of gear shifts, with the driver only really aware of engine revs changing rather than actual shifts. With the engine's considerable torque of 630Nm, the sensation is of effortless exhilaration and speed.
Sport mode adopts momentary ignition-spark-cut technology; originally engineered for use in Formula 1 racing which improves gear-change times and provides a more engaging and mechanical feel. Track mode further optimses gearshift performance with McLaren's innovative Inertia Push technology, which harnesses the built-up kinetic energy of the flywheel to deliver a torque impulse as the next gear is engaged, ensuring relentless acceleration during upshifts.
For ultimate control and engagement in any of the three powertrain modes, a driver can choose to change manually, dictating gears via steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles.
Exceptional comfort in combination with unparalleled dynamics
The chassis of the McLaren GT delivers supple ride quality and refinement that is the most impressive of any McLaren to date - yet it also retains the precise and highly engaging handling characteristics for which the brand is renowned. The hydraulic steering and braking system also reflect this multi-faceted approach, combining ease of use at low speed with an incisive, direct feel during more spirited driving. As comfortable in urban environments as it is enthralling over a challenging road, the new McLaren GT displays levels of dynamic agility and precision never before seen in a Grand Tourer.
The lightweight aluminium, double-wishbone suspension front and rear with bespoke anti-roll bars is paired in the new McLaren GT with continuously variable, twin-valve hydraulic dampers that feature individual compression and rebound characteristics that reflect the increased ride height of the McLaren GT compared with other McLaren vehicles. The incredibly stiff MonoCell II-T carbon fibre structure of the vehicle has been instrumental in facilitating reduced spring rates that provide enhanced comfort levels with no detriment on dynamic performance.
This suspension configuration is combined in the new GT with Proactive Damping Control, a technology unique to this model and governed by the most sophisticated iteration yet of the pioneering Optimal Control Theory software algorithm first developed for the McLaren 720S. The state-of-the-art system uses inputs from sensors to 'read' the road, learning from previous scenarios to interpret what will likely happen next and reacting predictively in just two milliseconds to dictate damper responses.
Overall, body movement is tailored for occupant comfort, but with vertical load and contact patch variation optimised to enhance grip levels and support best-in-class dynamic performance. The chassis settings of the new GT can be adjusted electronically, with each of the Active Dynamics modes - Comfort, Sport and Track - having its own distinct set of parameters to reflect the preference selected; for example, a particularly compliant ride when in Comfort mode or tighter damper control and enhanced dynamic response in Track.
The McLaren GT is a supremely accomplished Grand Tourer in all driving environments, but high-speed stability is particularly noteworthy. A programme imperative throughout the development of the car, this is underpinned by rear axle geometry working hand-in-hand with the fixed rear wing, rear diffuser and flat under-floor to deliver exceptional driver confidence and comfort, especially at speed on de-restricted roads such as autobahns.
Driving precision and enjoyment is enhanced by McLaren's signature hydraulic steering system, a design shared with Super Series models and unique in a segment defined by all-electric steering assistance. A single software 'map' across Comfort, Sport and Track modes delivers optimal on-centre steering response and the purest-possible connection to the front tyres, while also providing increased assistance at low speeds to benefit urban driving and parking without impacting the rewarding feedback experienced at higher speeds.
Bespoke Pirelli P ZERO™ tyres
McLaren and its technical partner Pirelli have developed a new P ZERO™ tyre for the new McLaren GT, engineers from both companies working together to create a tyre that meets the demands of high-performance driving while delivering the comfort and refinement expected of a Grand Tourer.
The rear wheels - at 21-inch the largest ever fitted to a McLaren - are fitted with 295/30 R21 Pirelli P ZERO™ tyres, while the front are supplied with 225/35 R20 Pirelli P ZERO™ tyres. The Pirelli Noise Cancelling System (PNCS) that is integral to the design of the tyres is a Pirelli-patented technology that reduces road noise by using grooves in the tyres to absorb vibrations and minimise transmission of noise into the cabin.
The block pattern and structure, construction, sidewall profile and even the material selection inside the tyres have been developed in combination to provide the optimal balance of ride comfort and dynamic response with year-round security. Pirelli Sottozero™ tyres, which are specifically designed for cold and challenging weather conditions, are available as a retailer-fit option.
The McLaren GT has 7-spoke cast-alloy wheels in a silver finish as standard. A 15-spoke forged-alloy wheel is optionally available, providing a different visual graphic either in the default silver or with gloss-black; gloss-black diamond-cut; or MSO satin finish.
A choice of high-performance braking systems
Both of the high-performance braking systems developed for the new McLaren GT deliver across the full range of requirements, aided by a best-in-class kerbweight of just 1,530kg (3,373lbs) DIN. Providing precise pedal feel and hard deceleration at higher speeds and excellent usability and comfort at lower speeds or when holding the vehicle in traffic where less pedal effort is preferable, the standard brakes on the GT comprise powerful four-piston cast brake calipers front and rear and drilled iron brake discs (367mm at the front and 354mm at the rear).
Deceleration from high speed is particularly impressive, stopping from 200 km/h taking only 127 metres (417 feet). From 100km/h, the McLaren GT can come to a standstill in just 32 metres (105 feet).
A carbon ceramic brake upgrade is optionally available for buyers preferring even more authoritative stopping performance, with enhanced immediacy and pedal feel. The uprated system features 390mm carbon-ceramic brake discs on the front axle, with 380mm brake discs at the rear. Lightweight aluminium calipers feature six pistons on the front axle, with four pistons on the rear. Benefits include a reduction in brake-system weight and an even more powerful visual appearance, the larger discs and brake calipers being showcased within the alloy wheels.
The standard four-piston brake calipers are finished in black with a silver McLaren logo, but can be upgraded to Gunmetal, Silver, Red or a polished finish with contrasting McLaren logo on request. Calipers for the carbon ceramic brakes are black with a white McLaren logo as standard, or available in red, Azores orange or polished finishes, all with a machined McLaren logo.
Further opportunities for personalisation through McLaren Special Operations (MSO)
As with all McLaren models, a range of optional specifications developed by McLaren Special Operations is available for the new GT, including body colours, exterior and interior components in carbon fibre and other finishes and technology features.
There are 14 MSO Defined paint colours, almost doubling the number of body shades in the McLaren GT palette. Comprising a range of blue, grey, black and orange hues - plus Muriwai White and the all-new Silver Flux -these colours are available to standard factory order.
The range of carbon fibre interior components in the MSO Defined range includes infotainment screen surround, steering wheel clasp and extended gearshift paddles. Extended carbon fibre sill finishers with McLaren branding are also available.
There are also three option 'packs' available. As standard, the front splitter, rear diffuser and rear bumper lower of the McLaren GT are finished in Gloss Black; the optional MSO Gloss Carbon Fibre Pack sees these replaced with gloss carbon fibre, with the door mirrors also in the same material rather than body colour.
The MSO Black Pack brings a gloss-black finish for the door mirrors, alloy wheels, upper window surrounds and one of two exhaust finisher treatments: gloss black in conjunction with the standard exhaust or satin black for the sports exhaust. The MSO Bright Pack provides a differing visual treatment, offering bright chrome upper window surrounds, a gloss-black diamond cut alloy-wheel finish and either a bright chrome (standard exhaust) or natural titanium (sports exhaust) exhaust finish.
For those customers wanting to create a vehicle truly like no other, McLaren Special Operations offers a fully bespoke specification service, the boundaries of which are limited only by imagination and technical possibility.
Warranty and service
The McLaren Vehicle Warranty covers the McLaren GT for three years from the date of purchase without mileage limitation. In addition, the paint surface is warranted for three years and perforation corrosion of the vehicle body for 10 years. The new GT is also eligible to be covered by the McLaren Extended Warranty, which can be purchased in 12- or 24-month periods to ensure the protection of a comprehensive McLaren warranty until the vehicle is 12 years old.
Normal service intervals are one year or 15,000km (10,000 miles), whichever occurs first.
McLaren retailers worldwide have full details of the new McLaren GT and can advise on pricing and likely delivery times. Prices start at £163,00 in the UK, $210,000 in the USA and run from €198,000 in the EU.
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