Overview
The McLaren 720S, unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, represents the second generation of McLaren's Super Series and a thorough rethinking of the mid-engine supercar formula. Its carbon fiber Monocage II chassis sheds weight while increasing stiffness, bringing curb weight to 3,343 pounds (1,517 kg) for the coupe. The twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter M840T V8 produces 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, driving the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Performance figures include 0-60 mph in 2.7 seconds and a top speed of 212 mph.
What set the 720S apart from competitors was its Proactive Chassis Control II suspension, which uses interconnected hydraulic dampers to eliminate anti-roll bars. This system delivers what many reviewers described as a supernatural ride quality: compliant and comfortable in normal driving, yet capable of generating 1.09 g of lateral grip on the skidpad. The interior features a vertically oriented 7.0-inch touchscreen, with options including a Bowers & Wilkins 12-speaker audio system and McLaren Track Telemetry with exterior cameras.
Production ran from May 2017 through 2022, with the 720S being succeeded by the 750S. A Spider convertible variant arrived for the 2019 model year, offering open-top motoring with negligible performance penalties. The 720S earned widespread critical acclaim and was frequently compared favorably against the Ferrari F8 Tributo and Lamborghini Huracán, particularly for its ride comfort and technological sophistication. As McLaren transitions toward hybrid powertrains with models like the Artura, the pure internal combustion 720S has taken on added significance among collectors.
Key Features
- Carbon fiber Monocage II chassis
- Proactive Chassis Control II hydraulic suspension
- Dihedral doors
- 7.0-inch vertical touchscreen infotainment
- Available Bowers & Wilkins 12-speaker audio system
- McLaren Track Telemetry with exterior cameras
- Adaptive aerodynamics with active rear spoiler
- Spider variant with retractable hardtop
Specifications
| Engine | 4.0 L twin-turbocharged V8 (M840T) |
| Power output | 710 hp (720 PS) at 7,500 rpm |
| Torque | 568 lb-ft (770 Nm) at 5,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-speed SSG dual-clutch |
| 0-60 mph | 2.7 seconds |
| Top speed | 212 mph (341 km/h) |
| Curb weight | 3,343 lb (1,517 kg) |
| Chassis | Carbon fiber Monocage II |
| Suspension | Proactive Chassis Control II (hydraulic interconnected) |
| Fuel economy (combined) | 12.2 L/100 km (WLTP) |
| CO2 emissions | 276 g/km (WLTP) |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- • Supernatural ride quality in Comfort mode
- • Extreme performance with 0-60 in 2.7 seconds
- • Lightweight carbon fiber construction
- • Everyday usability with good visibility and luggage space
- • Distinctive design with dihedral doors
Cons
- • Hydraulic suspension accumulator reliability concerns
- • Infotainment system lags behind newer rivals
- • Limited dealer network in some regions
- • Residual values affected by rapid depreciation
- • No hybrid or electrified option
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a McLaren 720S cost?
Is the McLaren 720S reliable?
McLaren 720S vs Ferrari F8 Tributo: which is better?
What is the 0-60 time of a McLaren 720S?
Is a McLaren 720S worth it?
Keywords
Sources
Product Info
- Brand
- McLaren
- Manufacturer
- McLaren Automotive
- Category
- car
- Released
- 2017-05-01
- Price
- £222,800 (UK base price at launch)
- Availability
- Discontinued
- Production years
- 2017–2022
- Assembly
- Woking, England
- Predecessor
- McLaren 650S
- Successor
- McLaren 750S
- Body style
- 2-door coupe or 2-door retractable hardtop (Spider)
- Layout
- Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
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