McLaren launches cheapest model ever

McLarenMcLarenUnited Kingdom, 1963 > present92 models
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is unveiling at this year's Shanghai Motor Show the cheapest model ever of its range, the 540C CoupeMcLaren 540C CoupéUnited Kingdom, 2015 > present. The new model is part of the new Sports Series range and is a vehicle designed for the global market.

The new 540C Coupe occupies the base model spot on the McLaren range and puts it closer to more "mainstream" models such as the Audi R8Audi R8 Gen.2Germany, 2015 > present4 versions
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and the Porsche 911Porsche 911 Gen.6 [991 Series]Germany, 2011 > present110 versions
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. The new sports model will cost £126,000 (174.836 euros), £17.250 less (23.942 euros) than the more powerful 570SMcLaren 570S CoupéUnited Kingdom, 2015 > present.

Under the bonnet the 540C is powered by a version of 540hp of the same twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8 engine used in the 570S. Thanks to this powertrain the new rear-wheel drive model, combined with an automatic dual-clutch seven-speed, can reach 100km/h in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 320km/h. McLaren has announced an average consumption for the new 540C Coupe of 9,2l/100km, with CO2 emissions of 258g/km, identical values as the 570S.

The vehicle was developed based on the carbon fiber chassis MonoCell II and was built using aluminum body panels. The 540C Coupe is only 2kg lighter than the 570S with a total of 1311kg.

Compared to the 570S, the new 540C receives some changes in terms of aerodynamics and also new alloy wheels 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. McLaren has reviewed the dampers to make the 540C a more comfortable vehicle to drive on a daily basis.

Contrary to what happened with the 625CMcLaren 625CUnited Kingdom, 2014 > present, whose letter "C" indicated that it was an exclusive model for Asian markets, the 540C will be available worldwide. In this case the "C" stands for Clubsport.

The model can now be ordered, but the first deliveries are only scheduled for early 2016.