McLaren 720S
absence of radiator intakes on the side of the car, a function now carried out by the “double-skin” aerodynamic form of the doors, which channel air to the radiators that cool the mid-mounted engine.
Every road car built by McLaren since the F1 in 1993 has had a carbon fibre chassis, something that underpins the construction of the new 720S.
And at the press driving exercise came a promise from McLaren that, despite its thunderous degree of power, the car would prove it could be comfortably, efficiently and pretty effortlessly driven just like any more mainstream vehicle.
So the countryside of middle England rather than a high-speed racetrack became the testing ground for the 720S – and it proved a revelation.
Hopping in and out once those space age butterfly doors are opened can be challenging for anyone with a bad back or dodgy hip, but once in place both driver and passenger will find the cockpit to be a cosseting and engaging place to reside.
The performance figures speak for themselves, though it’s worth emphasising that throttle response has been calibrated to deliver the best blend of instant reaction and progressive control, hardwiring the driver to the powertrain in the process.
Its character can be altered using an Active Dynamics Panel located in the centre console, with a choice of Comfort, Sport or Track modes, the latter ensuring ferociously quick gear changes while Comfort provides more relaxed shifts for gentler pottering.
And a new generation of McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control, new suspension and the power-assisted steering, combine to deliver the car’s grip, balance and performance, while the hand-crafted cockpit with its fine leathers and machined aluminium features the new McLaren driver interface, which comprises a folding driver display and infotainment screen.
Prices are £208,600 for the standard 720S and £218,020 for the 720S Performance and Luxury variants, though there are plenty of extras on the options list – our test model had the best part of £48,000 worth of added goodies ranging from twinspoke forged lightweight wheels with titanium liquid metal finish for £3,080 to a nose-lifting function that helps with access to car parks.
On returning home my daughter asked me whether I would prefer to be given a supercar or a racehorse.
Interesting one that, and definitely a gamble in there somewhere. What’s certain is that the right supercar is certain to appreciate in value, whereas the nag could turn out to be a Derby winner - or a dud.