McLaren GT: Practical … for a $210K, 612-HP Exotic Supercar
McLaren’s “rule-breaking” new GT “superlight” grand touring car was officially revealed today, aimed at buyers who want both a McLaren and a car that can comfortably travel long distances with enough cargo space for golf clubs or skis. (C’mon, rich people, don’t you already have enough?)
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The GT will have a starting price of $210,000 — not including destination, which on other McLaren models depends on the method used to deliver the car — and seats two, forgoing the tiny and often pointless backseat of other grand tourers.
Power comes from a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 making 612 horsepower and 465 pounds-feet of torque, giving the GT a claimed 3.1-second zero-to-60-mph time and a top speed of 203 mph. Range is a claimed 399 miles thanks to a 19-gallon fuel tank and what McLaren says are fuel economy figures of 15/21/17 mpg city/highway/combined.
The rest of the car is tuned for everyday usability, unlike McLaren’s other models. Brake-pedal feel has been adjusted to reduce effort in low-speed situations; steering assist is increased at lower speeds to make parking and navigating traffic easier; ground clearance is higher than on any previous McLaren model and the company claims that, with the added lift engaged, the GT has similar ground clearance to most sedans.
The body is also tuned for comfort. Where the Senna hypercar’s body intentionally amplifies low-frequency sounds, in the GT those sounds are dampened. The suspension is a GT-specific bespoke design that focuses on a balance of driving precision and comfort, and helps provide what McLaren says is the most comfortable ride of any vehicle it’s made.
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The rear cargo area has an available powered hatch that opens up to 14.8 cubic feet of storage space and can fit golf clubs or skis; thanks to the GT’s mid-engine design, there’s also a front trunk with another 5.3 cubic feet of storage, for a total of 20.1 cubic feet.
Interior comfort is also a focus in the GT, with standard Nappa leather trim that can be upgraded to soft-grain leather or Alcantara simulated suede. Cashmere — cashmere! — trim will become available later this year.
The GT can be ordered now, with delivery expected in late 2019.
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