McLaren is a name synonymous with performance. The company created the pinnacle of sports cars – the F1 GTR – before the Veyron took the crown. After the F1, McLaren did not make any icons until the MP4-12C emerged, igniting a frenzy in the motoring world. The British supercar was back to tackle its Italian counterparts, with the 12C intentionally targeting the Ferrari 458 Italia – the supercar benchmark. It excelled in performance figures, handling, and comfort but lacked the fun element that the 458 offered, reflected in its dismal sales. Undeterred, McLaren launched the 650S, a worthy successor to the 12C. You can check out its prices and specs over here.

Design

The McLaren 650S is an evolution of the 12C design rather than a revolution. The company spent years in R&D perfecting the aerodynamic design, making it unwise to implement radical changes too soon. They enhanced the exterior of the 12C, drawing inspiration from the P1 hypercar for the front design, which looks stunning. The side profile is as aerodynamic as a supercar can be, though I personally find the rear end retains too much of the 12C's look, lacking the supercar aesthetic. However, the scissor doors transform it into an instant showpiece. Despite preferences for unique doors, McLaren deserves praise for this design element.

Interior

The McLaren 650S features the most driver-focused interior among supercars, equipped with modern amenities. Entering the vehicle requires some effort due to its low seating position, which resembles a go-kart experience. The accelerator and brake pedals are close but manageable, and the legroom is remarkable. The bucket seats offer comfort for long drives, making it suitable for daily use. The visibility is better than most supercars, except for the rear, where a rear camera assists with parking. The infotainment system, while modern, lacks responsiveness and needs improvement. The individual A/C controls on each door are a thoughtful touch, and the generous use of Alcantara enhances comfort.

McLaren 650S Cargo Space

Drive

The driving experience of the McLaren 650S is fulfilling, powered by a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine producing 650 horsepower and 680 Nm of torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. While it may be slightly slower than claimed, it reaches a top speed of 329 km/h. The car excels not just in straight-line speed but also in power delivery and control. The 650S feels stable, even during full acceleration, and offers excellent road grip thanks to its Pirelli P-Zero tires. The active spoiler enhances its performance, and the steering wheel provides exceptional feedback to the driver.

Although the engine noise is somewhat disappointing due to turbocharging, the overall driving experience is impressive. Fuel consumption stands at 25.6 l/100 km, but switching to 'normal' mode transforms the 650S into a comfortable GT cruiser, proving it can be a daily driver.

Verdict

With a budget of a million AED, the McLaren 650S stands out as one of the best cars available. Compared to the aging 458 and the yet-to-be-driven 488, the 650S delivers speed, comfort, and modernity. It is not just a supercar; it’s a fun machine that can be enjoyed daily.

P.S. Opt for the spider version to showcase this beauty with you in the driver's seat.

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