McLaren, renowned for its high-performance supercars, strategically broadened its appeal by introducing the Sports Series, with the 2017 Mclaren 570gt standing out as a compelling option. This move effectively doubled McLaren’s sales, proving that even at a base price around $200,000, a McLaren could be considered “affordable” within its exclusive segment. In 2016 alone, approximately 700 of the 1,100 cars McLaren sold in North America were from the Sports Series, highlighting the success of this strategic expansion. The 2017 McLaren 570GT emerges as a significant model in this series, blending supercar DNA with grand touring aspirations.
The 2017 McLaren 570GT is fundamentally a marvel of engineering: a carbon fiber tub housing a potent engine and equipped with high-grip tires. It’s engineered to be a daily driver that doesn’t compromise on exhilarating performance. For those who demand a commute with the capability to launch from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 204 mph, the 2017 McLaren 570GT is an ideal choice.
McLaren positioned the 570GT, along with its sibling the 570S, to attract buyers considering alternatives like the Audi R8, Porsche 911 Turbo, or Lamborghini Huracan. These are individuals seeking a car that can serve as a thrilling daily driver or an exceptionally fun weekend vehicle. The price point reflects its exclusivity: the 2017 McLaren 570GT starts at $201,450. Equipping it with upgrades such as a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, bespoke paint, and enhanced interior finishes can elevate the MSRP, as seen in the tested model which reached $210,290. While substantial, this price remains within the more accessible range of the McLaren spectrum, especially when considering that Super Series models can exceed the Sports Series price by $100,000, and the Ultimate Series climbs beyond the $1 million mark.
Driving Dynamics and Performance of the 2017 McLaren 570GT
The 2017 McLaren 570GT is undeniably captivating, boasting an alluring design and blistering speed. From the signature dihedral doors that gracefully open to reveal a luxurious leather-clad interior, to the visceral roar of its twin-turbo 3.8-liter engine, every aspect of the 570GT is meticulously crafted for lightweight agility, rapid acceleration, and superior handling.
On winding roads, such as a drive through Little Tujunga Canyon, the 2017 McLaren 570GT exhibits phenomenal road grip, akin to “a gecko on glass.” The engine’s responsiveness is perfectly matched by its equally sharp braking and finely tuned suspension. The 7-speed gearbox is exceptionally well-calibrated in automatic mode, making the manual paddle shifters feel almost redundant – enjoyable for engagement, but unlikely to outperform the automatic system’s intuitive gear selection.
The driving mode selector allows for dynamic adjustments to torque, shift points, engine acoustics, and suspension firmness. “Normal” mode offers a spirited daily driving experience, “Sport” mode sharpens responses for more aggressive driving, and “Track” mode unleashes the car’s full potential, ideally reserved for closed circuits. Similarly, features like traction control deactivation and launch control are best utilized in controlled environments. While Sport and Track suspension settings enhance track performance, they can transmit road imperfections more noticeably during everyday street driving.
Practicality and Grand Touring Aspects of the 2017 McLaren 570GT
Unlike some uncompromising sports cars, the 2017 McLaren 570GT incorporates a hydraulic lift system, a practical feature that raises the vehicle’s nose to navigate steep driveways and urban obstacles – a welcome addition for city driving. The car’s capabilities often exceed the driver’s, inspiring confidence and suggesting untapped performance reserves even when pushed hard.
Despite its “GT” designation, the 2017 McLaren 570GT redefines grand touring expectations. The mid-engine layout precludes a conventional trunk, but a unique glass hatch opens to reveal a “touring deck” – a storage area situated above the engine bay. This space, along with a “frunk” in the front, offers limited cargo capacity, suitable for carry-on luggage. McLaren provides specifically designed luggage to maximize the utility of the touring deck. Space behind the seats is minimal, further emphasizing its focus on driver and passenger experience over extensive cargo hauling.
Interior and Technology in the 2017 McLaren 570GT
The infotainment system and seat adjustments in the 2017 McLaren 570GT, while present, can be somewhat complex. The controls are not immediately intuitive, requiring a learning curve. However, the slim seats are surprisingly comfortable, and the compact rearview camera display enhances maneuverability in tight spaces. A distinctive touch is the driver icon on the climate control interface, depicted wearing a helmet, subtly hinting at the car’s racing pedigree.
Market Demand and Availability of the 2017 McLaren 570GT
The 2017 McLaren 570GT has been met with considerable market enthusiasm, with sales outpacing production. At the time of the original review, there was a waiting period of five to six months for new orders, indicating strong demand. Rumors of a potential Spider version further fueled anticipation within the sports car community.
2017 McLaren 570GT: Summary
Times’ Take: Street legal track car
Highs: Exceptional acceleration and handling, striking design, relative “affordability” within the McLaren range.
Lows: Infotainment system complexity, limited storage space for grand touring in the traditional sense.
Vehicle Type: Two-door, two-passenger sports car
Base Price: $201,450
Price as Tested: $210,290
Powertrain: 3.8-liter, V-8, turbocharged gasoline engine
Transmission: Seven-speed automatic
Horsepower: 562
Torque: 443 pound-feet
EPA Fuel Economy Rating: 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway / 19 mpg combined
In conclusion, the 2017 McLaren 570GT successfully merges supercar performance with grand touring aspirations, offering a unique proposition for discerning drivers seeking an exhilarating and relatively practical McLaren experience.
