The scene is set for the electrified future of McLaren, thanks to the launch of the supercar Artura.
On Tuesday, the $ 225,000 McLaren Artura 2022 debuted with a new plug-in hybrid powertrain, carbon fiber architecture and electronic architecture that will allow over-the-air (OTA) updates.
The Artura is the first McLaren to be truly new since the MP4-12C supercar almost a decade ago. Using the new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA), the carbon fiber bath replaces the MonoCell design of the automaker that started life on the MP4-12C. Rivals Ferrari and Lamborghini use aluminum construction for their lower-tier models. The MCLA was designed from the beginning for electrified power trains and the platform will be used in future McLarens.
McLaren Artura
McLaren Artura
McLaren Artura
A 2.9-liter biturbo V-6 produces 577 hp and 431 lb-ft of torque. At 353 pounds, it weighs 110 pounds less than McLaren’s twin-turbo V-8 and is shorter for better packaging, which is aided by dry sump lubrication. The aluminum engine can accelerate to 8,500 rpm, which is just 500 rpm shy of the 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-6. The gas engine is combined with an electric motor located on the 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that adds 94 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque. The total output of the 671 hp and 531 lb-ft of torque train output is sent to the rear wheels via an electronically controlled differential also mounted on the transmission.
Artura uses the electric motor to reverse the car by turning in the opposite direction. There is no reverse gear. Nice trick.
McLaren Artura
Weighing in at 3,303 pounds, Artura is not a heavyweight, but McLaren said it reaches its maximum with a 3.0 second 0-60 mph sprint, an 8.3 second 0-124 mph burst and a race from 0-186 mph to 21.5 seconds on its way to a top speed limited to 205 mph.
The 7.4 kwh lithium-ion battery that powers the electric motor provides Artura with up to 19 miles of fully electric range. McLaren said the system can be charged up to 80% in 2.5 hours in a 240-volt outlet, although the battery can also be recharged via the gas engine while driving through various driving modes.
McLaren offers four powertrain modes: E mode (fully electric mode), Comfort, Sport and Track. The independently controlled handling modes adjust the dampers and the electronic stability control system.
In an attempt to provide feedback from the road, McLaren adheres to a hydraulic steering system. Each Artura will come with carbon ceramic brakes and aluminum calipers to save unsprung weight and provide track-ready stop performance.
McLaren Artura
McLaren Artura
McLaren Artura
There is no mistaking Artura for anything other than a McLaren. It looks like an evolutionary cross between the brand’s entry-level Sport Series cars and the high-performance Super Series. Artura has a typical layout for the front of the cabin with a short, low front end and a long roof line. As with other McLarens, Artura has dihedral doors and the tips of the central exhaust come out directly from the engine. The supercar runs on forged 7-spoke, 19-inch wheels and 20-inch wheels wrapped in McLaren-specific Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires.
McLaren Artura
McLaren Artura
McLaren Artura
The Artura features a simple steering-focused interior with powertrain and handling controls mounted on the side of the digital instrument panel, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and heated seats with memory and lumbar. An optional Clubsport seat rotates in an elliptical arc to change all seat settings.
Artura’s electrical architecture allows OTA updating when connected to wi-fi. Future software updates will not require owners to visit a McLaren dealer.
Fuel economy ratings have not been released, but Artura is likely to be the most efficient McLaren to date when it arrives at U.S. dealerships in the third quarter of this year.