Overview
What’s New for 2022?
McLaren doesn’t make any significant changes or updates to the 2022 720S coupe or convertible. For those looking for an even more race-centric machine, the 765LT (reviewed separately) scratches that itch with its extra power and additional mass savings.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Most convertible supercars are compromised by more weight and less rigidity, but the 720S Spider is hardly affected at all. Despite the retractable hardtop adding some weight, the Spider is just as quick as the coupe and its open-air cockpit enhances the driving experience. We’d choose it in the Performance spec, with its carbon-fiber exterior addenda and racy interior upgrades. Likewise, we’d select the Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires for maximum stick and the electrochromic glass roof. Personalization options are extensive and subjective, so the only other add-ons we’d want are the front and rear parking sensors, front-end vehicle lift, and McLaren Track Telemetry with a lap-time recorder and three cameras.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Both the coupe and convertible version cradle a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 that produces 710 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. Those totals are funneled through a paddle-shifted seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 720S coupe we tested at our track rocketed to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds and reached 100 mph in 5.2 ticks. We also had the opportunity to pilot a similar version at our annual Lightning Lap, where we called it “wonderfully fun and scary fast.” We drove one on a twisting and ill-maintained road in California, where its advanced suspension was able to smooth out imperfections and the steering system was a communicative companion. The experience was further evidence that McLaren has unrivaled chassis tuning.
Michael SimariCar and Driver
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Since the McLaren 720S clearly isn’t a typical commuter car, it doesn’t receive the typical EPA certification. We estimate the mid-engine machine would achieve between 15 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway, and 18 mpg combined. However, we expect its real-world fuel economy to vary drastically depending on how much time it spends with its throttle wide open.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The core of every 720S is its carbon-fiber tub that helps limit weight and ensure rigidity, all while protecting passengers. Contained within this lightweight structure is a two-seat cabin that caters to the driver. While its interior design is less flashy than rivals from Ferrari and Lamborghini, the aesthetic is pleasing, and outward visibility is excellent. Sure, it can be a pain to escape from the low-slung seating position, but that’s standard supercar procedure. Instead, the cabin can be outfitted with a variety of premium materials and bespoke options. Don’t expect ample space to store small items in the 720’s cabin but at least there is a luggage compartment under the hood.
Michael SimariCar and Driver
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every 720S is fitted with a vertically oriented 7.0-inch touchscreen that includes conventional features such as Bluetooth, a four-speaker audio system, and two USB ports. Those who want a more powerful audio system to drown out the sound of this six-figure supercar’s twin-turbo V-8 can upgrade to a 12-speaker Bowers & Wilkins unit. There’s also an optional track-data recorder (called McLaren Track Telemetry) with or without three exterior cameras to save lap times and relive moments at the racetrack.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 720S does not offer any traditional driver-assistance technology but can be equipped with several useful options that help keep it free of dents and scratches. For more information about the 720S’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key driver assists include:
- Available front and rear parking sensors
- Available front-end-lift system
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The McLaren includes a standard warranty plan that spans three years with no mileage limit. The company also offers extended coverage of up to 12 years with a limit of 12,000 miles per year.
- Limited warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
- Powertrain warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
Specifications
2019 McLaren 720S Spider
VEHICLE TYPE
mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door convertible
PRICE AS TESTED
$411,300 (base price: $319,100)
ENGINE TYPEtwin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injectionDisplacement244 cu in, 3994 ccPower710 hp @ 7500 rpmTorque
568 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
7-speed dual-clutch automatic with manual shifting mode
CHASSISSuspension (F/R): control arms/control armsBrakes (F/R): 15.4-in vented, cross-drilled, carbon-ceramic disc/15.0-in vented, cross-drilled, carbon-ceramic disc
Tires: Pirelli P Zero PZ4, F: 245/35R-19 (93Y) R: 305/30R-20 (103Y)
DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 105.1 in Length: 178.9 in Width: 76.0 in Height: 47.1 in Passenger volume: 47 cu ft Cargo volume, top up/down: 7/5 cu ft
Curb weight: 3343 lb
C/D TEST RESULTSZero to 60 mph: 2.8 secZero to 100 mph: 5.5 secZero to 130 mph: 8.5 secRolling start, 5–60 mph: 3.6 secTop gear, 30–50 mph: 2.6 secTop gear, 50–70 mph: 3.0 secStanding ¼-mile: 10.3 sec @ 143 mphTop speed (drag limited, mfr’s claim): 212 mphBraking, 70–0 mph: 141 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 1.09 g
C/D FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 12 mpg
EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST)
Combined/city/highway: 18/15/22 mpg
Keyword: 2022 McLaren 720S Review, Pricing, and Specs