It seems that Porsche was not the only supercar marque to go in guns ablazing at the height of motorsports season last week.
McLaren unveiled the latest model of their lineup, the 750S, to invited guests last Friday ahead of the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix weekend – officially making its debut in the entire Southeast Asian region.
While it looks very similar to the outgoing 720S, there are some key indicators that this is more than just an incremental upgrade.
Its aerodynamic qualities at the front have been improved, with redesigned lower air intakes and extended splitter that seamlessly blend with the rest of the fascia, and headlight housings that are ever slightly more tapered, amongst other notable changes.
The exhaust system has been reworked and ditches the 720S’ twin pipe configuration for a single, centralised design that resembles the McLaren P1 hypercar, and provides a more visceral aural experience. Other major changes at the back include a new active rear wing, which extends higher (by 60 mm, according to the carmaker), and works double duty as a downforce generator and cooler for the powertrain.
As its name suggests, the 750S now delivers 30 more horsepower than the 720S it succeeds, bringing the total output to 750 bhp and 800 Nm of torque, all derived from its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 powerplant.
It has also undergone a strict weight-loss program with up to 30% of new and revised components equipped, now measuring at just 1,277 kg (a full 30 kg lighter than its predecessor). The 750S’ final power-to-weight ratio now stands at 587 hp per tonne, as a result.
But what do all these figures and statistics mean? Simply put, the 750S is now a more rapid machine, clocking a 0-100 km/h timing in just 2.8 seconds. With more runway, it can reach 200 km/h in 7.2 seconds, eventually topping out at 332 km/h.
Raw power is not the only thing to expect from the 750S experience, either. It benefits from improved suspension tuning; softer springs at the front and firmer ones at the back, adjusted accumulators on the struts, and a revised Proactive Chassis Control system. All of this essentially translates to a more precise and accurate, yet comfortable experience behind the wheel.
The cabin sees some mild yet effective revisions, including the Active Dynamic switchgear which are now positioned along the instrument display, allowing the driver to control suspension and powertrain modes to be selected without having to move away from the steering wheel.
Debuting on the 750S is the McLaren Control Launcher, or MCL, which lets the driver choose his favourite set of settings for aero, handling, powertrain, and transmission – all at the touch of a button. There is also a button for the vehicle-lift system, which raises the front of the 750S in just four seconds. For comparison, the system found on the 720S raises the vehicle in 10 seconds.
While alcantara upholstery comes standard with the 750S, customers can choose two interior themes – Performance and TechLux – that introduce Nappa leather trim to varying degrees. Individualisation of vehicle paintwork is also possible through McLaren Special Operations (MSO), where customers can select unique colours for the 750S’ external bodywork, or even create their own bespoke paint.
Prices for the 750S start at S$1,398,000 for the coupé, and S$1,548,000 for the Spider open-top variant. Both prices are not inclusive of COE. The 750S is expected to arrive on our shores by Q1 2024.
Photo Credits: Muhammad Mu’tasim (@mutasimdrives)
Keyword: McLaren 750S Launches in Singapore: Raising the Bar Ever Higher