We’ll forgive you double and think we’ve uploaded images of a 720S, but that’s the 2023 McLaren 750S and McLaren insists it’s picking up the baton from the 720S as the new benchmark in the supercar segment. GTspirit will have to wait until he gets behind the wheel of the 750S to confirm this hypothesis. What we do know is that the 720S was a phenomenal package that continued to impress even in the context of new competition from Ferrari and Lamborghini. We sensed that a change was coming when the Artura debuted with its bombastic hybrid powertrain and exceptional driving characteristics, surely the 720S replacement would go in the same direction? Not quite, the big news here is that there’s no real big news, instead McLaren has improved the 750S to be even more powerful, fun and lively than its predecessor, the 720S, because if a recipe is already so well received, then why Make a fire? change the chef and the menu? Considering the uncertainty at a time when lawmakers are arguing over how to set a policy agenda that wins votes but is still meaningful and achievable, why rush to focus on hybridizing the entire range when could there be a future for the pure combustion engine?
“When you have a car that is recognized as a benchmark by so many drivers, to make something even better you have to examine every detail and push really hard for improvements that will raise the bar even further.” That’s exactly what we have done with the new 750S. The light weight, V8 engine power and outstanding dynamic capabilities combine to deliver a supercar driving experience that reaches new heights and delivers a truly exhilarating level of emotional connection.” – Michael Leiters, CEO, McLaren Automotive
Enough reasons, what has changed? It would be pointless to say that the McLaren 750S is a 720S with new badges and figures. However, McLaren is keen to point out that the really exciting changes are under the skin. The new 750S is the lightest and most powerful production McLaren, with a segment-leading power-to-weight ratio of 579 hp per tonne (coupe, at lowest dry weight) – a 22 hp lead over what McLaren describes as its nearest competitor, the Ferrari 296 GTB.
Weighing just 1,389kg (DIN), the vehicle is 30kg lighter than the 720S, a testament to McLaren’s commitment to lightweight engineering. This performance-driven approach to innovation is exemplified by the use of carbon fiber racing seats, which are 17.5kg lighter than the standard seats in a 720S, as well as the introduction of new 10-spoke forged wheels, which are the lightest ever fitted to a 720S McLaren production vehicle saves 13.8 kg. Additionally, the new driver instrument display is 1.8kg lighter, and even the windshield glass contributes to weight reduction, resulting in a weight saving of 1.6kg.
Optional carbon fiber shell racing seats, first seen on the Senna, and the lightest wheels ever fitted as standard on a production McLaren are among the features that deliver weight reduction. The extra charge for the Spider, which was unusually launched alongside the coupe, is just 49kg thanks to the carbon fiber upper structure and retractable composite hardtop.
The unique McLaren M840T engine developed for the 750S increases boost pressure from the ultra-low inertia twin-scroll turbochargers, increasing air pressure in the cylinders. In conjunction with this, an additional high-flow fuel pump meets the higher fuel flow pressure requirements. The 4.0-liter V8 remains and remains free of any hybrid elements in the McLaren 750S. The 750S delivers breathtaking performance with an output of 750 hp and 800 Nm of torque. The engine’s higher power and torque are matched by a gearbox with a shorter final ratio, resulting in faster acceleration. This allows the car to reach 0-200 km/h (0-124 mph) in just 7.2 seconds (compared to 7.3 seconds for the 750S Spider), which is faster than any other vehicle in its class. The gear ratio has been optimized and the kickdown control strategy has been revised to improve in-gear acceleration.
The latest version of McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control hydraulic suspension system has been upgraded to PCC III and is even more impressive. McLaren reports that the 750S’s exceptional dynamic capabilities are largely due to this new-generation suspension system, which features softer springs at the front, stiffer springs at the rear and a reconfigured valve block with both passive and active elements. A new approach to suspension tuning has been implemented, which includes adjustments to the accumulators in the struts, resulting in improved ride comfort, roll control, steering feedback and cornering balance. The weight of the suspension system has also been reduced by 2 kg thanks to new spring and damper designs. The combined hardware and software changes in the PCC III have expanded the 750S’s dynamic capabilities beyond those of its predecessor, allowing it to maintain the comfort levels of the 720S while delivering significantly better performance on the track, making it the new benchmark supercar from McLaren makes.
In addition to its improved suspension system, the McLaren 750S is also more maneuverable than the car it replaces as front-end grip has been improved. This is due to a 6mm wider front track and new suspension geometry. Additionally, the car is equipped with McLaren’s electro-hydraulic steering, known for its precise feedback, and has been upgraded with a faster steering ratio and a new power steering pump, adding to the car’s agility. In addition to its superior suspension system, the 750S is also more maneuverable than the car it replaces due to improved front wheel grip. This is due to a 6mm wider front track and new suspension geometry. Additionally, the car is equipped with McLaren’s electro-hydraulic steering, known for its precise feedback, and has been upgraded with a faster steering ratio and a new power steering pump, adding to the car’s agility.
Like the Artura, the McLaren 750S features a combination of current technology and better interior materials and switchgear, with a particular focus on prioritizing the driver’s needs. Central to this focus is the implementation of new displays for both informational and instrumental purposes, the latter display being mounted on and moving with the steering column. This driver-focused display is housed in a housing and also features controls on both sides, allowing seamless switching between Comfort, Sport and Track Active Dynamic modes while keeping the driver’s hands on the wheel and their attention remains fully focused on the road in front of him.
By pressing the McLaren Speedmark button, known for its distinctive logo, drivers can activate the MCL feature, allowing them to customize their driving experience. This includes storing a unique combination of aero, handling, powertrain and transmission settings that can be easily recalled with a single press of the MCL button. These are welcome additions that give the 750S a fresher look over the car it replaces.
McLaren is known for its electro-hydraulic assisted steering system, which provides the driver with exceptional feedback and connectivity. On the 750S, this system has been fine-tuned to provide even faster steering ratio and greater linearity, resulting in more precise and accurate driver inputs. Together with a new spring balance, revised damper valving definitions and bump steer mitigation, the 750S is now even more agile and responsive, enabling sharper turn-in and inspiring greater rider confidence.
McLaren insists there is a stronger physical and emotional connection between driver and car, supported by bespoke engine suspension tuning. The McLaren 750S features a new central exhaust arrangement, inspired by the McLaren P1, which is acoustically tuned to deliver “a distinctive clear tone and sharp crescendo at high engine speeds”.
For 750S customers who want to undertake intensive circuit driving, there is the option to upgrade to a rail braking system. This system includes ceramic discs and monobloc brake calipers based on those of the McLaren Senna. In addition, the brake booster and vacuum pump have been modernized and brake caliper cooling technology inspired by Formula 1 has been integrated. To further enhance the vehicle’s track capabilities, optional superlight carbon fiber racing seats can also be selected, as well as track-focused Pirelli P ZERO Trofeo R tires and lightweight titanium wheel bolts for even more lightweight nerdiness.
The most significant appearance changes can be seen at the rear of the vehicle, where a curved mesh cover now spans the revised rear deck and directs airflow to a longer rear wing that bears a clear resemblance to the 765LT’s wing. The surface area of this new wing is 20 percent larger than that of the 720S and weighs 1.6 kg less due to its carbon fiber construction. The wing can be used in three ways: selecting the “Aero” button increases downforce in corners in proportion to vehicle speed, while a DRS function is available for high-speed driving where minimal drag is required. During high-speed braking maneuvers, the wing ultimately folds up in less than half a second to maximize braking power.
The McLaren 750S features a more refined front design compared to its predecessor. This includes a new lower nose area with an extended front splitter and narrower “eye socket” inlets that now surround the headlights. Optional features include body-colored or carbon fiber headlight bezels and rear and front bumper vents made from McLaren’s signature lightweight material.
Whether coupé or spider, it remains clear that McLaren has found an optimal solution with the 720S and has improved it in all areas with the 750S. The interior and technology changes, including Apple CarPlay, add to the new model’s appeal, as do the increased performance and improved driving characteristics. We’ll have to wait to see the changes ourselves, but we can be sure that this will be a very different supercar than its rivals like the Ferrari 296, which rely on hybrid technologies. We know McLaren can do it too, as seen with the Artura, but the Woking-based brand makes no secret of its fondness for the experience that the combustion engine brings.
