In 2020, McLaren introduced the Artura to the world. This innovative hybrid supercar from the British brand marked the beginning of a new era. The V8 was discarded and replaced with a V6 featuring hybrid technology. Despite the highly promised technology and performance, the launch was delayed several times due to various issues. Now, after a facelift, the Artura Spider has joined the lineup. We had the chance to take it for a spin for a few days to put it to the test.
We begin with the Artura’s timeline in 2020. It was November when McLaren unveiled the car, and despite the V6 engine, we were quickly excited. McLarens remain beautiful cars, and the brand has been making significant strides since its revival. Unfortunately, the introduction came amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to some issues.
One of the main problems was software-related, which wasn’t entirely unexpected given the advanced technology integrated into the Artura. The Artura features a completely new in-car network called “zonal domain-based ethernet architecture.” This twisted-pair ethernet network uses only four central controllers (the 720S uses twelve), but it increases processing power and makes the platform future-proof for upcoming features, with over-the-air updates possible.
This is what makes the Artura so strong. If any issues arise, McLaren can resolve them through an “Over the Air” update. While this isn’t new in the automotive world - Tesla, Polestar, and other brands already use it - it’s relatively unique in the supercar world.
Additionally, there were supply chain problems, largely due to the pandemic and the global chip shortage. The press introduction of the Artura also didn’t go entirely smoothly when one of the models caught fire. This prompted McLaren to return to the drawing board and redesign the oil cooler.
The McLaren Artura Spider was introduced on February 27, 2024. With the launch of the Artura Spider, the Artura was immediately updated. The car's performance was increased, bringing the system output to 700 hp - 20 hp more than before. Additionally, the electric powertrain was optimized, extending the range from 30 kilometers to 33 kilometers. The suspension and damping were also adjusted, now responding 90% faster! These are optimizations that truly matter and make the driving behavior of the Artura even sharper.
Off we went with the Artura Spider. At Louwman Exclusive in Utrecht, along with CITO Motors in Eindhoven, the McLaren dealerships, we were handed the keys and wished a lot of fun. That fun begins the moment you slide into the Artura's Clubsport seats. They provide excellent support and give you the true supercar feeling. Then you press the start button, and not much happens. This is because the Artura Spider can also drive fully electrically. Switch to Sport mode, and the loud V6 comes to life. Despite having two fewer cylinders, the sound is still delightful! You could wake us up for this. With this combination of electric and petrol power, McLaren has created the ultimate blend. The Artura can therefore serve perfectly as a daily car! Who wouldn't want to slide into a McLaren every day with supercar performance?
The McLaren Artura Spider offers a dynamic and thrilling driving experience that exceeds your expectations of a supercar. The McLaren is equipped with a twin-turbo V6 engine and an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 700 hp. This results in lightning-fast acceleration, with a 0-100 km/h time of under 3 seconds and a top speed of over 300 km/h. The precision of the steering is one of the most impressive features of the Artura Spider. The car responds sharply to steering inputs, providing a precise and confidence-inspiring driving experience.
The lightweight construction and low center of gravity contribute to superb handling and exceptional agility. Unfortunately, winding roads are rare in the Netherlands. However, there are plenty of on- and off-ramps that offer challenging corner combinations to feel what the Artura has to offer. With utmost precision, the Artura dives into corners and gives you all the confidence you need to press the accelerator deeper. On a bone-dry road, the limits are hard to find, thanks to the adaptive suspension.
The suspension continuously adjusts to driving conditions, ensuring an optimal balance between comfort and performance. Whether you're driving on smooth asphalt or bumpy roads, the suspension ensures the car remains stable and controlled.
Driving open in the Artura Spider is a delight. The V6 engine eagerly makes itself heard, and that sound is further amplified without the roof. The steel folding roof opens and closes in just 11 seconds, and this can be done at speeds of up to 50 km/h. If you don’t always want your head in the sun, the best option is the small rear window, which can be opened and closed. This way, you can hear the engine and transmission rumbling, shaking, and screaming, giving the Artura the emotion you’re looking for nowadays. Of course, that emotion is quickly swept away when the engine shuts off and the hybrid powertrain takes over. However, this is easily avoided by keeping the powertrain in Sport mode. The V6 engine will then always purr like a content cat, ready when the driver demands it.
Despite its early issues, McLaren has embarked on a new path with this car, and if this is the foundation, we can expect many exciting things in the future. The Artura has lived up to our expectations and has proven itself to be a true all-rounder. It’s great for daily enjoyment, but it will also hold its own on a racetrack. Of course, all of this comes with a price tag. The displayed Artura Spider was finished in a McLaren Special Operations color called ‘Volcano Blue.’ The interior is just as it should be in black. To stay in McLaren terms, it’s the Performance Theme - Carbon Black & Jet Black with black accents. Additionally, this Artura was well-equipped with options. For example, the electrochromic glass roof costs a hefty 9,260 euros! This allows you to dim the glass with the push of a button. Not really an option we’d tick. However, the Sport Exhaust for 4,480 euros is definitely one we’d choose. Add this to the base price of 292,400 euros, and you’re quickly approaching 325,000 euros!
Photos by Christian Kalse
