Is McLaren finally joining the soccer mom dark side by offering an SUV? According to a new report from Motor1 via Automotive News (subscription required), McLaren may finally be joining the likes of other supercar brands adding an SUV to its vehicle lineup.
The report says McLaren hosted a private, dealers-only presentation where the automaker revealed several future models, including an SUV, a “sedan-like” GT car, and a V6 hybrid supercar. During the presentation, McLaren detailed a plan to release a new model each year through 2028 and shift its dealer image from an Apple-esque, minimalist, tech-forward aesthetic to a “luxury boutique” experience. We’ll touch on each model, but let’s start with the SUV.
The report says that McLaren’s SUV is called the “P47” internally and is planned for a 2028 release. A clay model of the SUV was shown to dealers during the presentation and according to some of the dealers, the SUV is larger than a Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, has 24-inch wheels, and a “heavily sculpted” body. Everything beyond that is a mystery. If the idea of a McLaren SUV seems wild to you, consider that nearly every other supercar and ultra luxury brand has already made the SUV plunge. McLaren is one of the last holdouts, but it appears that the automaker has finally decided to step into the arena to take on the likes of Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Bentley, Rolls Royce, and Porsche.
The GT car, McLaren revealed is meant for those looking for an “everyday McLaren,” but not interested in an SUV form factor. It will be a front-engine vehicle, with a 2+2 layout. There was no mention of a powertrain, so your guess is as good as ours. Considering it will be a GT car it could go in a few different directions. It could have a small-displacement, forced induction engine for high horsepower, with less weight. Though, we think McLaren may opt for a larger displacement V8 engine for effortless cruising.
Finally, the last model announced during this presentation is a V6-hybrid supercar model meant to replace the recently retired 700-series. Code named “P34,” the supercar is said to have a twin-turbo V6 that makes 810 horsepower. The engine and gearbox were both developed entirely in-house, and paired with an electric motor, the powertrain is supposed to be good for 800 ft-lbs of torque. McLaren is targeting a 2027 release for the P34, and says the price tag will start at $313,000 with the goal of selling 1,000 examples within the first year.
What do you think of McLaren’s grand plan? Is diving into the SUV market the right move? Or do you think McLaren is betraying its roots? Let us know what you think in the comments, or tag us on Threads with your opinion.