McLaren 540C 2017 review: road test
- Price From $325,000
- Seats2
- Fuel cons.25.5L/100km (combined)
What we like
- Brilliant dynamics
- Impressive performance
- (Relatively) approachable price
What we don't
- Tricky entry/egress
- Drinks a bit when pushed (don't we all)
- Practicality not a strong suit
Believe it or not, the McLaren 540C is an entry-level model. But you won't find anything remotely resembling rubber floor mats, steel wheels, or cloth seats here. This is a 'base' car like few others.
Revealed in 2015, it's actually the cornerstone of McLaren's three-tier supercar pyramid, being the most affordable member of the Sport Series, with the properly exotic Super Series (650S, 675LT and now 720S), and pretty much insane Ultimate Series (where the P1 hypercar briefly lived) rising above it.
So, how has this British upstart managed to build a world-beating supercar brand so quickly?
Only a few years ago, McLaren meant nothing to anyone outside the octane-infused world of motorsport. But in 2017, it's right up there with aspirational sports car big guns like Ferrari and Porsche, both of which have been producing road cars for close to 70 years.
So, how has this British upstart managed to build a world-beating supercar brand so quickly?
Everything you need to know to answer that question resides inside the stunning McLaren 540C.
Verdict
The 540C is desirable on so many levels. Its dynamic ability, blistering performance, and stunning design make the cost of entry a value-for-money ticket. And the refreshing thing is, choosing a McLaren, with its focus on function and pure engineering, sidesteps the wankery that so often goes with ownership of an 'established' exotic brand. We absolutely love it.
Do you think McLaren is a genuine competitor for the usual supercar suspects? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
Specifications
- PriceFrom $325,000
- Fuel consumption25.5L/100km (combined), 258g/km CO2
- Seats2
- Warranty3 years/unlimited
- Engine3.799L turbo 8-cyl premium unleaded, 397kW/540Nm
- TransmissionAutomatic, RWD
- Dimensions4530mm (L), 1914mm (W), 1202mm (H)
McLaren 540C 2017 review: road test
What we like
- Brilliant dynamics
- Impressive performance
- (Relatively) approachable price
What we don't
- Tricky entry/egress
- Drinks a bit when pushed (don't we all)
- Practicality not a strong suit
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