At the 2015 Geneva Motor Show McLaren debuted (in its’ production form) the McLaren 675LT, the lightest, most powerful, fastest and most track focused model the McLaren Super Series. With it it returns the ‘Longtail’ name, first famous in McLaren’s history for the fastest version of the McLaren F1 the 675LT features the five main characteristics of carrying the Longtail name ; lightweight, optimised aerodynamics, increased power, track-focused dynamics and driver engagement.
According to Mike Flewitt, McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer ‘… it is an appropriate name for the most exhilarating and driver-focused version of the Super Series. The 675LT is the purest distillation of what McLaren stands for – pure driving pleasure.’ And a pleasure it really is.
It’s optimised aerodynamics culminates in 40 percent more downforce than the 650S which it sits alongside in the McLaren Super Series, and along with it’s increased power, track-focused dynamics and driver engagement McLaren really have raised the bar. Completing 0-62 mph in just 2.9 seconds with a top speed of 205mph it’s assisted by the 100kg weight saving (due to the increased use of carbon fibre) gives a power-to-weight ratio of 549PS per tonne. The new carbon fibre bodywork not only minimises weight but optimises aerodynamic performance, with the addition of a newly designed front splitter, Formula 1™-style nose end-plates and larger ‘Longtail’ Airbrake.
And it’s not just that that impresses: the newly-devleoped M838TL 3.8L twin-turbocharged V8 engine is 675PS (666bhp) at 7,100rpm, with a torque figure of 700Nm (516 lb ft) at 5,500-6,500rpm delivers increased levels of power, torque and driveability
The performance is not only seen in the 675LT’s output : it’s driver focused interior gives you the hint of just how strong the performance is before the engine purrs. A lightweight Alcantara® upholstery and embossed leather, four-speaker Meridian hi-fi, DAB digital radio (Sirius satellite radio in North America) and a satellite navigation system as a standard oozes class. It’s minimalist environment is to be expected with McLaren’s attention to detail and provides minimal distractions for the driver. Featuring clear inspiration from the McLaren P1™ including the extended carbon fibre gearshift paddles behind the steering wheel, each and every detail has been thought out and perfected.
The McLaren 675LT is most track-focused, yet road legal, McLaren series production model to date and it delivers’ on all of it’s promises.
Priced at £259,500, all have now been sold, with first deliveries scheduled to begin this month.
