Force of Nature
McLaren’s 720S is a next-gen supercar regarded by many to be the most important machine in the British manufacturer’s history.
As the successor to the outgoing 650S, McLaren’s 720S will embody the brand’s best attributes by combining the practicality of the 570GT, the adrenalin rush of the 675LT and the thundering acceleration of the P1 hypercar.
Boasting a sleek design and dramatic butterfly doors that set it apart from its Italian rivals, this convertible looks just as good with its top up as it does with the roof down. Like an F-18 fighter jet, every inch of the 720S’s beautifully sculptured bodywork has been engineered for slicing through the air, from the air intakes at the front to the huge “airbrake” at the rear that deploys for heavy deceleration.
At its core is a carbon-fiber tub and—an arm’s length behind the driver—a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine, capable of producing 710 hp, or 720 ps, hence the model’s name. When idling, the engine may sound like a disgruntled German Shepherd, but find an open stretch of road, extend that right foot beyond 5,000 rpm and the majestic V8 sings as majestically as Freddie Mercury hitting Bohemian Rhapsody’s high notes. When punched to the max, the McLaren can sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 212 mph. It’s mind-bendingly quick.
This machine’s V8 is attached to a super quick shifting, seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission, while its Formula One-developed brake-steer system uses braking force on the inside rear wheel for quick turns into corners and even quicker exits. Apart from a superlative supercar handling experience, the 720S delivers arguably the best ride quality in its class, with comfort levels superior to some hot hatchbacks.
It’s also a car that beautifully blends high-tech function and luxury. With liberal amounts of soft Nappa leather on the seats, doors and dash and aluminum accents on the steering wheel and switches, the 720S interior feels and smells like a luxury yacht. A vertically oriented seven-inch touchscreen sits snugly on the center console, but this McLaren has a head-turning trick up its sleeve. Flip the drive mode switch to track mode and your binnacle-style instrument pod will automatically tip forward to reveal a spartan readout that displays only revs, gear and speed. Perfect for maximum focus on track days.
Whether negotiating city traffic or cruising along highways, few supercars look so dramatic, ride so effortlessly and inspire so much confidence.
McLaren | cars.mclaren.com
Words: Peter Lyon
Image: Alfie Goodrich
