McLaren MP4-12C, 2013

 

 McLaren MP4-12C, 2013

McLaren Automotive, rather than resting on its laurels, has instead announced a package of enhancements that will make the McLaren MP4-12C high performance sports car even more invigorating to drive yet even easier to live with.

Headlining the changes is a 25PS (25hp) power increase. It takes the maximum output of the mid mounted, twin turbocharged V8 engine to 625PS (616hp) to give yet more vivid acceleration at track speeds with no loss in efficiency. Modifications have been made by McLaren's engineers to the 12C's engine and SSG transmission increasing responsiveness. Ease of use, a phrase not often associated with cars of this type, is further improved through a host of detail changes while a wider variety of paint, leather and wheel options give customers yet more scope for personalisation. The McLaren MP4-12C's unique Intake Sound Generator (ISG) system, which controls the amount of engine intake sound heard in the cabin, is now programmable across three levels in all three Powertrain modes allowing the driver to select the amount of aural drama he or she wants to enjoy, whatever the road. But one aspect that hasn't changed is the McLaren MP4-12C's purposeful styling… apart from a subtle revision to the McLaren Speed Marque badge, that is.

The latest iteration of the McLaren MP4-12C, which at launch set a new benchmark among its competitors for power, efficiency and pioneering technology, is available to order now. Customers who have already taken delivery of a 12C are not being neglected, though. Every 12C owner is being offered a package of upgrades, including the extra 25PS (25hp), at no cost, underlining McLaren's commitment to its customers ensuring they enjoy owning their 12C as much as they do driving it.

The Detail: enhanced 12C overview
The suite of upgrades to the McLaren MP4-12C specification from October 2012 includes enhancements to the 12C's engine and transmission, in addition to other functional attributes.

A focus on drivetrain development has given McLaren Automotive's engineers the opportunity to increase the McLaren MP4-12C's 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 output from 600PS (592hp) to 625PS (616hp). The redesigned engine mapping has not altered the remarkable efficiency of the M838T engine, with 12C CO2 emissions remaining at just 279 g/km, and fuel economy recorded on the EU combined cycle at 24.2 mpg (11.7 l/100km).

Modification of the 7-Speed SSG transmission to which the McLaren MP4-12C's high-powered engine is mated has resulted in crisper throttle response and improved clutch control for gear changes that are both faster and smoother.

The McLaren MP4-12C features an innovative Intake Sound Generator (ISG). This system works by controlling engine intake noise within the cabin at differing levels, depending on the Powertrain mode selected for the car. Moving up through Normal, Sport and Track Powertrain modes enhances the aural drama and driving experience of the 12C, with engine noise in the cabin changing when throttle power is applied and revs increase. With the 2013 specification 12C, the driver will be able to select the level of engine noise delivered in each mode through an electronic menu accessible via the instrument cluster.

Improved usability and occupant comfort
A new door entry system is a feature of the new MP4-12C. A small button mounted on each door replaces the 12C's touch sensor system. In line with customer feedback, the modification is intended to simplify the user experience. The ability to unlatch each door using the 12C key fob will be retained.

To improve safety, an enhancement will be made to the headlight activation settings of the McLaren MP4-12C. With the 'AUTO-lights' mode selected, the 12C's headlights will be automatically switched on when rain is detected by the windshield-mounted rain sensor.

The McLaren MP4-12C's Climate Control System will be modified exclusively for 2013 models. In addition to the standard 'AUTO' function of the system; new cars will be supplied with systems inclusive of 'AUTO LO' functionality. This new setting enables the desired cabin temperature to be reached in the quietest way possible, using lower fan speeds.

New options to personalize the ultimate McLaren MP4-12C
McLaren Automotive is committed to innovating through technology and design, and presenting customers with an exciting range of opportunities to specify their ultimate 12C. Along with the power upgrade and technical revisions announced for the 2013 model year McLaren MP4-12C, comes a selection of tempting aesthetic and functional options which may be added to the comprehensive standard 12C specification.

A stunning new high quality paint finish will be added to the options list for the new McLaren MP4-12C. Volcano Yellow joins the 'Elite' set of paint finishes available for the revised model, and promises to be as spectacular as the popular Volcano Orange and Volcano Red finishes selected by many MP4-12C customers since the car was launched in 2011.

A new wheel design and wheel finish available on multiple wheel designs will be offered to future McLaren MP4-12C owners. A new 5-spoke lightweight-forged wheel may be specified for the 12C and is available in multiple finishes. Standard Silver, optional Stealth and eye-catching Diamond Cut finishes are available on this new wheel design, as well as forged wheel designs available to order from the existing range. The Diamond Cut wheel finish is first finished in Graphite Grey, then diamond cut to reveal the forged metal surface. The entire wheel is then finished in a protective coat, which adds a high quality gloss to the appearance.

An exclusive new McLaren MP4-12C interior trim has been developed by McLaren Automotive for 2013 model year 12Cs, which is a higher quality and more naturally textured leather than that in the current MP4-12C options list. If selected, exclusive semi-aniline leather is applied to all major interior surfaces including doors, seats, dash and the centre console. The new interior option includes flat piping around the perimeter of the seat and along the edge of the door card insert. The piping finish will be in Carbon Black unless requested in McLaren Orange, Harissa Red or Stone Grey. Three levels of this new interior trim will be available to order from June 2012:

•     Full Semi-Aniline Leather: Carbon Black Leather on all surfaces, along with optional colour-matched flat piping
•     Semi-Aniline Leather with Colour Perforated Inserts: As Full Semi-Aniline, with the addition of colour perforated door inserts, seat inserts and matching piping
•     Semi-Aniline Leather with Alcantara Inserts: Carbon Black Leather to all major surfaces, with black Alcantara seat inserts and optional Alcantara door inserts, along with optional colour-matched flat piping

Racing Green, which to date has been an option for McLaren MP4-12C buyers, and 'Driver Zone' interior options, will now be reserved for clients of McLaren Special Operations (MSO). Selecting the 'Driver Zone' option will see a customer meet with MSO stylists to create a colour and trim scheme in the area immediately around, and including, the driver's seat. This is specified in contrast to the interior trim specified elsewhere in the cabin.

One Touch Seat Return is an added function of optional heated and electric seats for new cars, and will be available as an update to existing vehicles. With the pull of a lever, the seat will return to its position when the driver last exited the 12C. Easy-Exit - whereby the seat retracts to its most rearward position to allow for unhindered exiting of the 12C - will remain a feature.