New McLaren GTS: the pinnacle of engineering and style

McLaren has just unveiled its latest model, the GTS, which comes as a replacement for the GT model...

The new GTS, characterized by its super-light construction, is engineered to satisfy drivers seeking dynamic excellence and the thrilling driving experience characteristic of McLaren, along with ride comfort, refinement, and luggage space suitable for everyday drives and longer journeys.

"The new McLaren GTS offers an unparalleled blend of McLaren driving dynamics and performance with sophistication and practicality. When you want a true supercar driving experience, the GTS delivers; when you want relaxation on a longer journey or with luggage for a weekend getaway, the GTS is the ideal companion. This is a car that is true to McLaren's racing DNA, but with multiple layers of capabilities," said Michael Leiters, CEO of McLaren Automotive.

Retaining the core McLaren attributes of beautiful, yet functional design, class-leading power-to-weight ratio - enabled by the use of lightweight carbon fiber centered around a unique monocoque chassis - and unparalleled dynamic performance, the new GTS is visually even more striking and offers an increased choice of exterior and interior specifications.

The elegant exterior lines of the GT model remain the basis for the car's aerodynamic package and profile, but new visual upgrades mean the GTS is even more confident. At the front, 'hammerhead' styling has been updated with a new lower front bumper. This part of the car features newly shaped air intakes that are more pronounced, with wider openings to channel more air into the car's cooling system. Front elements can optionally be executed in glossy visual carbon fiber, reflecting McLaren's racing DNA and giving the GTS model an aggressive appearance.

The GTS relies on the carbon fiber MonoCell II-T chassis, which features a strong, ultra-light construction and the rigidity required by a McLaren supercar with a mid-engine. The standard composite roof is made from recycled carbon fiber, representing one of many weight-saving solutions within the GTS model's construction that contribute to optimal vehicle performance and dynamics. These choices are key in enabling the GTS model to deliver an exciting supercar driving experience, without deteriorating ride quality, or unnecessary noise, harshness, and vibration.

Weighing only 1,520kg, the GTS is the lightest car in its class and has the best power-to-weight ratio in the segment at 418PS per ton. The power of the V8 M840TE 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine has been increased to 635PS at 7,500rpm, while an additional 15PS comes from increased crankshaft torque enabled by more aggressive combustion phasing and revised ignition timing. Controlled start function is standard; when activated, the GTS achieves 0-100km/h in just 3.2 seconds and 0-200km/h in only 8.9 seconds. The maximum speed of the GTS is 326km/h.

The GTS comes with a seven-speed SSG transmission that provides smooth, seamless, and rapid shifts in the default Comfort driving mode, ensuring relaxing, yet brisk acceleration. Beyond this, the driver can enhance their supercar experience with two additional driving modes - Sport and Track - via the Active Dynamics Panel. Sport introduces increased dynamics, with spark cut technology allowing faster and more aggressive gear changes. Track mode elevates this to a higher level, maximizing transmission performance with minimal torque loss between gear changes. Manual gear changes are possible using paddle shifters on the steering wheel in any of the driving modes.

The tuning of the electro-hydraulic steering system, standard-fit suspension containing adaptive damping with proactive damping control, and powerful carbon-ceramic brake system are all unique to the GTS. These elements optimize the mid-mounted position of the V8 engine and the car's light construction for an authentic supercar driving experience, with a focus on balance and agility, but not at the expense of comfort and ride quality when it's beneficial.

The GTS is equipped with 390mm brake discs at the front and 380mm at the rear, all created from carbon ceramic. With lightweight six-piston aluminum calipers (four pistons at the rear), the braking system provides great feel and performance, capable of stopping the car from a speed of 100 km/h in just 32 meters.

McLaren GTS comes with a standard three-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, as well as a three-year paint warranty and a ten-year perforation warranty. The GTS is eligible for the McLaren Extended Warranty, which can be purchased for a period of 12 or 24 months up to a total of 12 years. Three years of vehicle servicing are included in the McLaren Service Plan.

As a realized and functional approach to the lightweight McLaren supercar, the new GTS takes its place in the McLaren lineup that will continue to evolve into 2024 and beyond.