The mid-engined McLaren 720S competes with some serious players, namely the Lamborghini Huracán, Aston Martin DBS, and Ferrari F8 Tributo, 296GTB, and 812 Superfast. But don't worry; it's an automaker with a Formula 1 racing pedigree. How much of the technology transfer from the world of racing is a matter of debate, but the company's competitive spirit is present in these twisty two-seaters. Its performance matches its looks, which strike a balance between elegant and ultra-athletic.
The 710-hp, twin-turbo V-8 engine, and dual-clutch transmission work together to hit 60 mph in under 3 seconds and build enough momentum to rocket the car past the quarter-mile marker in under 10.5 seconds. at speeds over 140 mph. It also has phenomenal grip and agility, but doesn't punish its occupants on imperfect roads. The downsides are few, so those who can afford the 720S will almost certainly be pleased with its exotic looks and equally exotic performance.
Changes to the McLaren 720S for the 2023 model year include the addition of two new exterior color options—Storm Gray and Volcano Yellow—as well as a branded armrest option. The carmaker has also introduced a three-year service plan. This is the last year for the 720S, as production of this McLaren supercar ends in December 2022. Most convertible supercars have more weight and less stiffness, but the 720S Spider is almost unaffected. Although the retractable hardtop adds weight, the Spider is just as fast as the coupe, and its open cockpit enhances the driving experience. We'd pick it in Performance spec, with the addition of a carbon fiber exterior and attractive interior upgrades. Likewise, we'd opt for Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires for maximum traction and an electrochromic glass roof. Personalization options are broad and subjective, so the only extras we'd like are front and rear parking sensors, a front vehicle lift, and McLaren Track Telemetry with a lap timer and three cameras.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The heart of every 720S is its carbon fiber tub which helps limit weight and ensure rigidity while protecting passengers. Inside this lightweight structure is a two-seater cabin that serves the driver. While the interior design is less flashy than rivals from Ferrari and Lamborghini, the aesthetics are pleasing, and outward visibility is excellent. Of course, it may be difficult to extricate yourself from the low-slung seating position, but that's standard supercar procedure. The cabin can be fitted with a range of premium materials and bespoke options. Don't expect much space for small items in the 720's cabin but at least there's a luggage compartment under the hood.2019 McLaren 720S Spider
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Real World Fuel Economy and MPG
According to the EPA, the 720S is rated at 15 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway, and 18 mpg combined. While ratings for the 2023 model year have not been released, we expect them to remain the same since no mechanical changes were made to the mid-engined machine. However, we expect real-world fuel economy to vary drastically depending on how much time it spends with the throttle wide open.
EPA FUEL ECONOMY ( C/D EST)
Both the coupe and convertible versions use a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine that produces 710 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. This amount is channeled through a seven-speed paddle-shifted dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 720S coupe we tested on our track rocketed to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds and hit 100 mph in 5.2 ticks. We also had the chance to test drive a similar version at our annual Lightning Lap, which we described as "a lot of fun and a lot of speed." We drove it on the winding, empty roads of California, where its sophisticated suspension smoothed out imperfections and the steering system was a communicative companion. The experience is further proof that McLaren has unrivaled chassis tuning.
TRANSPORTATION TYPE
mid-engine, rear-wheel drive, 2-passenger, 2-door convertiblePRICE AS TESTED
$411,300 (base price: $319,100)
MACHINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injectionDisplacement capacity
244 cu in, 3994 cc
Power
710 hp @ 7500 rpm
Torque
568 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
7-speed dual-clutch automatic with manual shift modeCHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): control arm/Brake control arm
(F/R): 15.4 inch ventilated carbon-ceramic disc/15.4 inch ventilated carbon-ceramic disc/15.0 inch ventilated carbon-ceramic disc Tires:
Pirelli P Zero PZ4, F: 245/35R-19 (93Y) R: 305/30R-20 (103Y)
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 105.1 inchesLength: 178.9 inches
Width: 76.0 inches
Height: 47.1 inches
Passenger volume: 47 cu ft
Cargo volume, top/bottom: 7/5 cu ft
Curb weight: 3343 lb
TEST RESULTS
C/D Zero to 60 mph: 2.8 secondsZero to 100 mph: 5.5 seconds
Zero to 130 mph: 8.5 seconds
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 3.6 seconds
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 2.6 seconds
Top gear, 50 –70 mph: 3.0 seconds
Standing ¼-mile: 10.3 seconds @ 143 mph
Top speed (limited tow, MFR claim): 312 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 141 ft
Road holding, 300-foot diameter skidpad: 1.09 g
FUEL ECONOMICS CD
Observed: 12 mpg
Specification
Combined/city/highway: 18/15/22 mpg
