Supercar maker McLaren has revealed another addition to its entry-level Sports Series range – and says it’s aimed at people who want to use it every day.
The new £126,000 540C shares the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and carbon chassis with the likes of the new 570S and the higher-powered 650S, which is part of the more expensive Super Series model range.
But the 540C, which produces searing acceleration in the region of 10.5 seconds for the 0-124mph sprint, is actually designed for optimised efficiency.
That’s right – McLaren says the 533bhp car is built for day-to-day usability, with improved accessibility, softer suspension and better cruising range.
Despite a 199mph top speed, its revised aerodynamics are actually designed to secure better results in EU fuel efficiency tests, says the British firm.
The 540C records 25.5mpg and 258g/km of CO2, exactly the same as the 570S on paper, but the match may be deceptive if McLaren has only had one Sports Series model put through the standard efficiency tests due to low production volumes.
Formula One-derived technologies like Brake Steer remain. The system brakes the inside wheels under hard cornering to help pull the car into the bend more tightly without exceeding the grip limits.
A new alloy wheel design marks the 540C out, while full leather upholstery is a luxurious standard touch.
The new car is globally available to order now, alongside the 570S and the Super Series trio of the 650S, 650S Spider and 675LT.