McLaren GTS: A Refreshed and Assertive Supercar for the Discerning Driver
When McLaren introduced the McLaren GT in 2019, there was an air of naivety about it. As a supercar designed to expand the company’s customer base, it faced stiff competition from its more established siblings, such as the 720S/750S and the smaller 570S/600LT/Artura. Despite consistent sales, the McLaren GT struggled to gain a strong foothold in the market.
Now, McLaren has unveiled the McLaren GTS, a refreshed version of the GT with added power, reduced weight, and a more aggressive design. While the GTS retains most of McLaren’s usual supercar agility and dynamism, it faces challenges in terms of accessibility, convenience, and interior features.
## Design & Styling: A Marginally More Assertive Look
The McLaren GTS features a black body trim and more aggressively scooped air intakes, giving it a marginally more assertive look compared to its predecessor. The car also offers the option of gloss carbon fiber addenda, which enhances its visual character and attitude. Overall, the GTS maintains the sleek and sporty design language that McLaren is known for.
## Pros: McLaren’s Usual Supercar Agility and Dynamism
The McLaren GTS impresses with its supercar agility and dynamism, offering a thrilling driving experience. It delivers plenty of grip and agility in its handling, with precise and responsive steering. The V8 engine provides effortless mid-range torque, and the twin-clutch gearbox ensures smooth and quick shifts.
Other pros include Porsche Boxster-like cargo practicality and a relatively modest price increase compared to its predecessor, making it an attractive option for McLaren enthusiasts.
## Cons: Limited Accessibility and Antiquated Interior
One of the main drawbacks of the McLaren GTS is its limited accessibility. As a mid-engined supercar with a carbon tub, it is low-of-seat and high-of-sill, making it somewhat challenging to get in and out of. This lack of convenience hinders its claim as a practical alternative to front- or rear-engined rivals.
The GTS also suffers from an antiquated cabin layout and multimedia tech. The rotary knobs for powertrain and handling mode adjustment are distracting, and the 7.0-inch infotainment system lacks features and connectivity options. McLaren’s older models, such as the Artura and 750S, offer a more advanced and user-friendly interior layout.
## Engines & Performance: Powerful and Engaging
The McLaren GTS boasts a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine mounted longways behind the driver. With up to 626bhp for the rear axle, it remains a powerful supercar with a high power-to-weight ratio. The GTS delivers plenty of outright pace and agility, surpassing most GT-class rivals in terms of driving appeal.
However, the GTS falls short in terms of refinement and isolation compared to its GT-class competitors. The ride and controls are less comfortable and filtered, making longer journeys and higher mileages less relaxing. While the engine provides impressive performance, it lacks the charismatic sound and enriching experience found in other V8-powered supercars.
## MPG & Running Costs: Competitive Pricing and Reasonable Fuel Economy
The McLaren GTS is priced just over £180k, making it the cheapest series-production model in McLaren’s lineup. While some alternatives, such as the Porsche 911 Turbo S, Aston Martin Vantage, and Mercedes-AMG GT, cost less, the GTS offers a unique combination of performance and practicality.
In terms of fuel economy, the GTS achieves around 27mpg on motorways and offers a range of approximately 430 miles. While not outstanding compared to more fuel-efficient cars, it is reasonable for a high-performance supercar.
## Verdict: A Tough Sell as It Ages
The McLaren GTS retains its appeal as a softer-edged grand touring option, offering a unique compromise of accessibility, comfort, practicality, performance, and dynamism. However, it falls short in terms of the interior refresh and the duality of appeal that the Artura’s plug-in hybrid powertrain provides.
Compared to McLaren’s other mid-engined models, the GTS seems to have been left behind in terms of innovation and interior features. As a result, it may struggle to compete with more advanced and luxurious rivals. While the GTS still has its strengths, it faces an uphill battle in a market that demands constant evolution and innovation.
In conclusion, the McLaren GTS is a remarkable supercar, but its limited updates may make it a tough sell as it ages.
