McLaren has unveiled the 2024 McLaren 750S, which features several enhancements and a mild makeover compared to its predecessor, the 720S. McLaren clarified that the modifications in the new model are not radical but rather gradual, with approximately 30 percent of the components being refreshed or replaced.
Despite this, the car still retains its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine, which is situated in the center of its carbon-fiber structure. However, the engine’s performance has been improved by increasing the boost pressure, resulting in an additional 30 horsepower and 22 pound-feet of torque, ultimately raising the car’s maximum output to 740 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque.
Sharing lightweight pistons with the track-oriented 765LT, the flat-plane-crank V-8 of the 750S also features a center-exit setup, similar to the McLaren P1, resulting from the converging of previously separate exhaust pipes; this enhances the car’s already fierce sound, especially at high revs, while larger air intakes before the rear wheels improve engine cooling, and a new mesh grille crowns the redesigned rear bumper.
Maintaining its rear-wheel-drive setup and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the 750S now features a shorter final-drive ratio that improves performance, and a new feature that prevents engine over-revving during downshifts by ensuring optimal timing for gear changes.
With meticulous weight-saving measures that complement these mechanical enhancements, the 750S coupe weighs up to 66 pounds less than its 720S predecessor, which includes standard carbon-fiber racing seats that save a total of 38.6 pounds over regular seats, while optional even lighter carbon buckets are also available.
McLaren’s commitment to enhancing the 750S’s power-to-weight ratio is evident in the car’s various weight-saving measures, such as the new standard forged wheels that save 30.4 pounds, the column-mounted digital gauge cluster that sheds 4 pounds, a lighter windshield that saves 3.5 pounds, and revised suspension components that cut another 4.4 pounds.
Both the coupe and convertible versions of the 750S are now lighter and more powerful, with both models said to reach 60 mph in 2.7 seconds and have a top speed of 206 mph, with the convertible weighing 108 pounds more than the coupe and reaching 124 mph in 7.3 seconds, which is one-tenth slower than the coupe.
A brake package specifically designed for racetracks is now available to help stop these exotic beasts. This package features 15.4-inch carbon-ceramic rotors with monobloc front calipers inherited from the McLaren Senna, which significantly resist fade and wear.
More consistent braking feel is achieved through the new brake booster and vacuum pump in the 750S. Braking at high speeds is assisted by the active rear wing, which also provides more downforce, and customers have the option to upgrade to stickier Pirelli P Zero Corsa or Trofeo R rubber tires beyond the standard P Zero.
McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control, now in its third generation, is a standard feature on the 750S and uses hydraulic hoses and accumulators to mitigate body roll without affecting the ride quality. Customers do not have to pay extra for this feature.
However, PCC III brings retuned accumulators, revised geometry, and lighter dampers and springs. The front track of the 750S is 6mm wider than its predecessor, and it still uses a hydraulic steering system with a quicker ratio. A hydraulic system is currently the only way to maintain the steering feel and authentic feedback that defines the McLaren brand.
McLaren has introduced a new 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system in their 750S model which includes Apple CarPlay, customizable ambient lighting, and a Bower & Wilkins sound system. Additionally, the 750S now has power adjustments for the steering column and the driver can access individual drive modes without removing their hands from the wheel.
Drivers can configure and activate/deactivate their preferred drive-mode settings using the McLaren Control Launcher.
U.S. dealers are now accepting orders for the 750S, with prices starting at $331,740 for the coupe and $352,740 for the Spider version. The first units are anticipated to be available for street driving sometime during the third quarter of this year.
