McLaren Revs Up New Supercar

McLaren Automotive Ltd. says its second-generation Super Series model will sprint from zero to 200 kph (124 mph) in 7.8 seconds and cover a quarter mile in 10.3 seconds.

The supercar, which will be publicly introduced at next month’s Geneva auto show, is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine. McLaren says the engine will be more powerful and more efficient than the 3.8-liter V-8 that propels the current 650S Super Series, which takes 8.4 seconds to hit 200 kph and 10.5 seconds to travel a quarter mile.

Output is expected to be increased by more than 10% over the 641 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque generated by the smaller V-8. This will be achieved in part by the use of ultra-low inertia, twin-scroll turbochargers that spool up faster than the previous turbo system to provide quicker throttle response and reduced turbo lag, according to the carmaker.

McLaren didn’t reveal who will provide the new V-8, which eventually will power all of its cars. The current 3.8-liter mill is produced by Ricardo and uses Mitsubishi turbochargers.