By Shereen Shabnam
Recently we ventured onto the streets of Dubai in the new McLaren GT experiencing it high levels of performance, turning heads because of its sleek design and enjoying similar levels of comfort and space normally expected in a Grand Tourer. The new McLaren redefines the modern GT ownership experience with a car that is lighter, faster and offers greater space, comfort and usability.
EXTERIOR
Sleek, elegant and muscular, the superlight new GT is a compelling blend of beautiful design, high-quality innovative materials. At almost 4.7 metres long, the new McLaren GT is longer than any of the cars in the McLaren Sports or Super Series. The front and rear overhangs also extend further than is traditional for McLaren.
The width and stance of the new McLaren GT are emphasised at the front by the signature ‘hammerhead line’ that runs horizontally across the nose and draws the eye out to the sides of the vehicle. The front splitter echoes this elegant line and generates peak aerodynamic pressure at its centre-point, guiding airflow over the bonnet’s crisp contours, under the vehicle and into four, low-temperature radiator ducts located in the front bumper. The car is eminently usable in all urban situations and comfortable to drive.
INTERIOR
The interior is designed to delight on longer journeys, but with all the essentials for focused, high-performance driving; the seating position, location of controls and forward visibility are as important. Technology and modern craftsmanship share equal prominence, with the finest high-quality materials complemented by features such as the most sophisticated McLaren infotainment system to date and hidden-until-lit ambient lighting.
Nappa leather trim features as standard but this can be upgraded to softgrain luxury leather or Alcantara®, depending on vehicle specification and customer preference.
The infotainment layout is well thought out and as we love music, the four-speaker system McLaren Audio System offers exceptional sound quality.
PERORMANCE
Expect a true supercar performance and benchmark driving dynamics and engagement for which McLaren is renowned. The new 620PS 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged McLaren V8 with 630Nm and broad, flat torque curve ensures seamless, relentless acceleration with a top speed of 326km/h (203mph).
Like all McLarens, the new GT has a carbon fibre structure that possesses exceptional strength and rigidity while enabling unparalleled driving dynamics. The new engine is mated to a 7-speed SSG transmission to deliver linear, seamless and relentless acceleration.
The suspension, steering and brakes are all bespoke and optimised to provide an outstanding Grand Touring driving experience, with inherent balance, responsiveness and precision complemented by superior ride comfort to any other McLaren.
VERDICT
We loved the sophisticated, sculpted body new McLaren GT that expresses both the power of the car and its ability to offer in cabin comfort in the beautifully crafted interior. It was refreshing to see more luggage space in this new model offered creatively in the upper rear section of the car, upholstered in attractive and durable choice of SuperFabric® option that provides increased resistance to stains, cuts, nicks and abrasions and is also breathable, easy to clean and quick to dry.
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