Power boost for McLaren MP4-12C
2012-06-08 10:20
EASIER TO LIVE WITH: McLaren has introduced a number of changes to its MP4-12C supercar for more power at no fuel penalty.
McLaren Automotive has announced a package of enhancements to make its MP4-12C high-performance sports car "even more invigorating to drive - though even easier to live with".
Headlining the changes is a nearly 20kW power increase taking the maximum output of the mid-mounted, twin-turbo V8 to 460kW with, the automaker claims, no loss in efficiency. The engine and SSG transmission have been modified to speed up responses to driver input.
There have also been a number of detail changes with a wider variety of paint, leather and wheel options. The 12C’s unique intake sound control (how much of it you hear in the cabin) has been made programmable across three levels, whatever the road, but the only change to the 12C’s looks is a subtle revision to the McLaren badge.
'RACING HERITAGE'
This latest iteration of the 12C, which at launch set a benchmark among its competitors for power, efficiency and pioneering technology, is available to order now from (UK prices) £176 000 (about R2.3-million). Customers who have already taken delivery of a 12C are not being neglected: every 12C owner is being offered a package of upgrades, including the extra power, at no cost.
Antony Sheriff, McLaren Automotive's MD, said: “Given our racing heritage, it's in our nature to continuously seek improvements. Our team recognises that our existing and future customers deserve the very best product and service we can offer and the launch of the enhanced 12C reaffirms its position as the most powerful luxury sports car among its competitor set."
The changed engine mapping, McLaren claims, has kept the fuel consumption to 11.67 litres/100km and exhaust CO2 emissions to 279g/km.
A new door entry system is also a feature: a button on each door replaces the 12C’s touch system. In line with customer feedback, this modification is intended to simplify the user experience though the key fob buttons can still be used. The headlights will illuminate when the auto wipers switch on and the suspension can now be raised by 40mm at the front and 25mm at the rear and run like that at up to 60km/h.
