After three years on the market, the first-generation McLaren Super Series was replaced by a redesigned model at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. Dubbed 720S, the core member of the second-generation Super Series has been thoroughly redesigned inside and out and gained a revised, larger V-8 engine.

Introduced in 2014 as a replacement for the 12C, the company’s first mass-produced sports car, the McLaren Super Series has had a successful three of years on the market as of 2017. It spawned several road-going and race-spec versions, including the 650S, 675LT, and 650S GT3, forming the brand’s most comprehensive family of vehicles yet. But, despite its success and tremendous performance, McLaren decided to give the Super Series a makeover and launch the brand-new 720S in 2017.

Codenamed P14, the successor to the 650S is the first new model in McLaren’s new business plan, which includes a £1-billion investment for 15 new products by 2022. Built around a new carbon-fiber tub called the Monocage II, the second-gen Super Series ditched the company's ubiquitous 3.8-liter V-8 for a new, 4.0-liter unit. Design-wise, The 720S is a significant departure from the 650S and incorporates radical active aerodynamics, as well as loads of new technology in the cockpit. As you'd expect from a new-generation supercar, the 720S is lighter, faster, and even more dynamically capable than its predecessor. Let's find out more about that in the review below.

Continue reading to learn more about the McLaren 720S.

2018 McLaren 720S

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2018 McLaren 720S
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 710 @ 7500
  • Torque: 568 @ 5500
  • Transmission: 7 Speed SSG
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

Unlike its main competitors, which are heavily based on their forerunners, the design of the 720S is rather revolutionary compared to the 650S. Sure, the sports car boasts similar proportions and keeps its predecessor’s somewhat short nose and long rear decklid, but the actual styling features are brand-new. Up front, the 720S has a more angular design, especially in the areas where the fenders run into the trunk lid and the nose.The headlamps are no longer incorporated into the upper fenders, but sit lower and inside big carvings at each corner. Also, the daytime running lights are separate units now. Down below, the 720S gained a body-colored bumper, but the splitter continues to be offered in bare carbon-fiber finish.

The car's profile is actually very similar to the 650S as far as shape goes, but there are numerous changes to talk about. For starters, it has a lower beltline and a slightly narrower cabin, which makes the fenders seem wider. Also, the 650S’ big vent in the rear fenders was ditched altogether for a smaller vent in the side skirts. It might seem like the 720S might have cooling issues, but the radiator's function is now carried out by the "double-skin" aerodynamic design of the dihedral doors, which channel air to the engine.

Around back, the 720S sports a flatter fascia with the previous taillights replaced by very thin LED strips. The horizontal-slat grille is gone, as are trapezoidal exhaust pipes. The latter retained their position between the taillights, but McLaren went with round pipes on each side of the "McLaren" logo. The rear diffuser was also redesigned and looks like it has been inspired from high-performance racing. More importantly, the small wing seen on the 650S was replaced by a different aerodynamic device that occupies a large portion of the decklid. When activated, the rear section of the spoiler lifts up to create a wing-like element.

All told, the 720S is the most aggressive and aerodynamically advanced McLaren to date. Okay, maybe the aggressive part is up for debate if we bring the P1 into the equation, but the new Super Series is definitely the most menacing proposition in this niche.

COMPETING DESIGNS

Developed to replace the ageing but still awesome 458 Italia, the 488 GTB (left) is more on the evolutionary side of things as far as design goes. Although it sports some styling features seen on the LaFerrari, the 488 is still heavily based on the 458. That's not to say that the GTB is not as exotic as a Ferrari should be. On the contrary, it has everything it needs to become a classic and it will probably age nicely, but park it near the McLaren 720S and it will probably look a little dull. The upcoming, higher-performance GTB Scuderia will probably provide a more menacing look, but we won't know for sure until it breaks cover. Another competitor to consider is the Lamborghini Huracan (right). Around since 2014, it was introduced to replace the iconic Gallardo, and unlike the 488 GTB, it has a revolutionary design. Highlighted by more angular lines sourced from the larger Aventador, the Huracan is Lambo's most aggressive entry-level model yet. However, it's not as dramatic as the 720S, sporting smoother, somewhat more elegant surfaces instead of McLaren's organic design language. But at the end of the day is just a matter of taste. If I had the cash and a choice, I'd go with the McLaren 720S, but both the 488 GTB and Huracan have styling cues that make them stand out.

Ferrari 488 GTB

Lamborghini Huracan

McLaren 720S

Wheelbase (Inches)

104.3

103.1

105.0

Length (Inches)

179.8

175.55

179.0

Width (Inches)

76.9

75.74

81.0

Height (Inches)

47.8

45.86

47.0

Track front/rear (Inches)

66.1/64.8

65.66/63.77

TBA


Interior

While the exterior is aggressive and somewhat futuristic, the cabin is downright mind-blowing. Granted, the 650S wasn't bad either, but the 720S's cockpit has race car written all over it. The driver's side is basically separated from the rest of the cabin, with the slim center stack oriented toward the main seat. The vertical screen has all the important buttons and knobs near the steering wheel, while the transmission control are stacked on top of each other below. This design is definitely unique and seems to be very practical too.

Behind the carbon decorated, flat-bottom steering wheel lies McLaren's new, revolutionary folding instrument cluster. Designed to rotate around its horizontal axis, the "Folding Drive Display" provides a comprehensive range of information in its regular, upright position, and switches to Slim Display Model to show only essential data on a small strip, just line in a race. The idea is to keep the driver focused on the important info while driving at the track, but it should also appeal to those who prefer simplicity.

The eight-inch infotainment screen in the center stack is described as "new integrated approach to sharing information" and runs multiple applications simultaneously with access to audio, media, and navigation controls, among other features. On top of that, it provides quick-access keys to other functions, making the infotainment system much easier to use while driving.

As expected, the cabin is packed with luxury features. The new Super Series features switches machined from aluminum and fine leather upholstery, while overall design is light and airy. Visibility has also improved dramatically. McLaren also claims that the Super Series’ cabin will rapidly become recognized as the most welcoming and engaging in the supercar sector. This is pretty much evident in the photos, which show authentic British craftsmanship combining leather, Alcantara, carbon-fiber, contrast stitching, and amazing fit and finish.

The upholstery is available in either black or black and Scoria Grey, but I'm sure many more options can be had from McLaren Special Operations. You can choose between standard or carbon-fiber seats, opt for two carbon-fiber packages, and leather or Alcantara steering wheel, among others.

THE COMPETITION

When it comes to craftsmanship, both Ferrari and Lamborghini offer top notch cockpits. However, matching the 720S's new layout is a difficult task. Unlike the McLaren, the 488 GTB (left) has a more classic configuration, with the dashboard and center console built as separate units. This is somewhat awkward in this day and age when automakers are racing to offer the sportiest, race-inspired center stacks, but it's a design that every Ferrari aficionado will appreciate. Me, I'm not a big fan, so the GTB's cabin isn't exactly impressive to my eyes. Sure, I like the two-tone dashboard and door panels, the bucket seats, and the vast amount of options when it comes to upholstery and colors, but the overall design is rather dull. The Huracan, on the other hand, has everything it needs to match the 720S's race-inspired cockpit. Except for the rotating instrument cluster, that is! But the slanted center console and the aggressively shaped dashboard will make you feel like you're in a race car. Of course, it still doesn't feel as fresh and advanced as the McLaren, but all the right features are there, including bucket seats, fine leather and Alcantara, and a ton of expensive options to make the cabin your own.

Drivetrain

Although it was initially believed that the award-winning, twin-turbo 3.8-liter V-8 will carry over in the 720S with upgraded internals and more power, McLaren developed a new engine for the second-gen Super Series. Now displacing 4.0 liters, the unit is heavily based on the previous engine, sharing 59 percent of existing parts. The output is rated at 720 PS and 770 Nm of torque, which converts to 710 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. That's a 70-horsepower and 68-pound-foot increase over the 650S and a 44-horsepower and 53-pound-foot upgrade to the 675LT.

These figures make the 720S the most powerful Super Series model yet and places it just below the P1. While the hypercar gets 903 horsepower and 723 pound-feet from the hybrid drivetrain, the gasoline V-8 engine generates only 17 horses more at 727 horsepower. The P1's torque figure is actually lower at 531 pound-feet.

McLaren didn't release many specific performance figures, but did say that the 720S needs less than three second to hit 62 mph from a standing start. With the 650S capable of reaching the benchmark in three ticks, the new Super Series should do it in around 2.8 seconds thanks to the extra oomph, lighter curb weight, and chassis improvements. With the 650S known to hit 62 mph in 2.9 seconds, I wouldn't be surprised is the 720S would do it in 2.7, or nearly as quick as the P1. The 720S will also hit 124 mph in less than eight seconds, which makes it a half-second quicker than the 650S and likely faster than the 675LT, rated at 7.9 clicks, too.

Top speed is also higher now, having been increased from 207 to 212 mph. Other numbers made available by McLaren include braking from 124 mph in just 4.6 seconds, a combined fuel consumption of 10.7 liters per km, and CO2 emissions of 249 grams per km in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).

The architecture of the new supercar is based around a new carbon fiber tub and upper structure, called the McLaren Monocage II. This technology delivers extreme strength and rigidity in a lightweight structure and it's combined with a range of aluminium alloys in the chassis. McLaren also developed a new generation of its Proactive Chassis Control, new suspension, and electro-hydraulic steering for increased grip, balance, and performance.

Although McLaren has yet to say anything during the launch event, it was revealed earlier in 2017 that the 720S' drivetrain has been designed to receive a hybrid system, which means that a gasoline-electric model is also in the books. However, the hybrid will be added at a later date and most likely in a car with a different name.

McLaren 650S

McLaren 675LT

McLaren 720S

Engine

3.8-Liter V-8 Twin Turbo

3.8-Liter V-8 Twin Turbo

4.0-litre twin-turbo V-8

Power

641 HP @ 7,250 RPM

666 HP @ 7,100 RPM

710 HP @ 7,500 RPM

Torque

500 LB-FT @ 6,000 RPM

516 LB-FT @ 5,500-6,500 RPM

568 LB-FT @ 5,500 RPM

Transmission

Seven-Speed Dual Clutch

Seven-Speed SSG

7 Speed SSG

0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)

3.0 seconds

2.9 seconds

2.8 seconds

0-200 km/h (0-124 mph)

8.4 seconds

7.9 seconds

7.8 seconds

Top Speed

207 mph

205 mph

212 mph

Weight

3,148 Lbs

2,927 Lbs

2,828 Lbs

Weight distribution (Front/Rear)

42.5%/57.5%

42.5%/57.5%

TBA


COMPETING PERFORMANCE

If there's one thing that puts the 488 GTB and the 720S in the same league, it's their drivetrains. Just like the McLaren, the Ferrari uses a twin-turbo V-8. Displacing 3.9 liters, the force-fed unit cranks out 660 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque. But don't let the missing 50 horsepower fool you, the 488 GTB is almost as quick as the 720S from 0 to 62 mph, needing three second to reach the benchmark. Depending on the final specs of the McLaren, the Italian supercar is one to two tenths slower. Sure, two tenth make a big difference in this segment, but it's not a decisive factor when buying high-profile supercar. As far as top speed goes, the 488 GTB is rated at "only" 205 mph, versus the 720S's 212-mph rating. Unlike the 720S and 488 GTB, the Hucaran comes with a more traditional, naturally aspirated engine. Shared with the Audi R8, the 5.2-liter V-10 cranks out 610 horsepower and 413 of torque. The Huracan may seem at a disadvantage when compared to its competitors, but its 0-to-62 mph time of about three seconds prove that power and torque aren’t everything when it comes to brutal launches. The Lambo's top speed is listed at 205 mph, which puts it on par with the 488 GTB, but below the 720S. The good news here is that Lambo just launched the Huracan Performante, a higher performance version with active aerodynamics that's 88 pounds lighter and has a 631-horsepower and 443-pound-feet engine. The sprint to 62 mph comes in 2.9 seconds, but its most important feature is that it set a new production car lap record on the Nurburgring!

Ferrari 488 GTB

Lamborghini Huracan

McLaren 720S

Engine

3.9-liter V-8 - 90° - Turbo – Dry Sump

5.2-liter V-10, 90°, IDS+MPI dual injection

4.0-litre twin-turbo V-8

Power

660 HP @ 8,000 RPM

610 HP @ 8,250 RPM

710 HP @ 7,500 RPM

Torque

560 LB-FT @ 3,000 RPM

413 LB-FT @ 6,500 RPM

568 LB-FT @ 5,500 RPM

Transmission

7 gears F1 dual clutch

7-speed LDF dual-clutch

7 Speed SSG

Ferrari 488 GTB

Lamborghini Huracan

McLaren 720S

3,0 seconds

3.2 seconds

2.8 seconds

Engine

8,3 seconds

9.9 seconds

7.8 seconds

Power

205 mph

201 mph

212 mph

Torque

260 g/km

290 g/km

249 g/km

Transmission

11.4 l/100 km

12.5 l/100 km

10.7 l /100km

0-100 km/h (62 mph)

3,020 Lbs

3,134 Lbs

2,828 Lbs

0-200 km/h (124 mph)

41,5% front – 58,5% rear

42 % front – 58 % rear

TBA


Prices

Pricing for the 720S starts from £208,600 in the U.K., which accounts for a £13,350 premium over the outgoing 650S. In the U.S., the supercar fetches $284,745 before options. For reference, the outgoing 650S was priced from $265,500, so we're looking at a premium of almost $20,000.

COMPETING PRICES

The Ferrari 488 GTB retails from $242,737 in the U.S., a sticker that makes it a more affordable choice compared to the McLaren 720S. Priced from $237,000, the Lamborghini Huracan is also slightly easier on the wallet. Even the Huracan Performance costs less, retailing from $274,390. All told, the 720S is the most expensive supercar on the list, but that's far from surprising given the more powerful engine and all that technology.

Ferrari 488 GTB

$242,737

Lamborghini Huracan

$237,000

Lamborghini Huracan Performance

$274,390

McLaren 720S

$284,000


Other Options

Audi R8 V10 Plus

The R8 might not be as exclusive and powerful as the 720S, but it has proper supercar looks and its interior is nothing to sneeze at when it comes to premium features. Redesigned for 2017, the R8 received the same 5.2-liter V-10 engine as the Huracan. While the base model comes with just 540 horsepower and 398 pound-feet, the Plus model gets the same ratings as the Lambo. Specifically, the V-10 cranks out 610 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. We've already established that this is not enough against the 720S, but while the Huracan is able to keep up when it comes to acceleration, the R8 Plus is a tad slower, needing 3.2 seconds to hit 62 mph. Top speed is identical to the Huracan at 205. But it's not all bad news. Priced from $189,900, the R8 V10 Plus can save you nearly $100,000 compared to the McLaren 720S. Quite the bargain, huh?

Find out more about the Audi R8 V10 Plus here.

Conclusion

The 650S (and the whole Super Series for that matter) turned McLaren into a full-fledged sports car manufacturer and proves that the little British firm has what it takes to give the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini a run for their money. The new 720S brings improvements in just about any department and turns McLaren into an even more dangerous competitor for Italy’s iconic brands. It's styling is aggressive, yet tasteful, it has the best cockpit in the segment, state-of-the-art tech and significantly more oomph than its most important competitors. What more could you want from a supercar? Yeah, I know, a successor to the 675LT would be downright awesome, but the cool thing about the 720S is that it doesn't need any upgrades to win races against the 488 GTB and Huracan.

Rendering