High-performance convertible McLaren Artura Spider captivates with its powerful prowess
McLaren's open-top Hybrid-Super sports car, the Artura Spider, offers an exhilarating experience with the wind in your hair. It storms ahead in every sense, leaving you breathless.
If you're honest with yourself, which sports car driver truly pushes their vehicle to its limits on a race track? Few may do so off-road, but those seeking automotive thrills are most commonly found on city streets. Yet, it's just a guess. However, any frequent visitor of the Nürburgring or other tracks can undoubtedly see supercars in action, especially on the Nordschleife. Yet, the hybrid drive system under the exterior of these performance machines is still relatively new.
Apart from a few exclusive limited productions, there are currently volume sports cars with multiple engines available on the market. Granted, "volume" is considered relatively high. Cars like Ferrari 296 or Lamborghini Revuelto may not be collector's items with limited production. However, the hobby racing community criticizes these models because the battery drains after extended full-throttle phases, common on the Nordschleife.
Let's take a look at the McLaren Artura Spider, which, surprisingly, is in the entry-level segment within this category. Yes, you might chuckle at the base price of around 273,000 euros. But other models aren't available for under 300,000 euros. The Artura's powertrain may be familiar, but for the new model year, the engineers have made adjustments. So, in addition to the 95 electric horses (225 Newtonmeters), there are now 605 instead of 585 PS generated by the three-liter Biturbo six-cylinder. This results in a total system output of 700 PS.
You might think the Spider needs the extra power due to its additional weight, increasing from the Coupe by 62 kg. But consider that the Spider still weighs just 1.5 tons dry weight with two engines integrated into the carbon chassis and eight small electric motors for roof operation (up to 50 km/h). The stable carbon body eliminates the need for additional reinforcements.
Excited for a ride? The Brits have chosen scenic spots in southern France for this purpose, suitable for discreetly releasing the car's full potential. But! Upon pressing the new (house color, of course) start button, the McLaren works silently at first. Depending on the mode and charging status of the 7.4-kWh battery - enough for 33 kilometers of electric driving - the three-liter growls angrily to itself. However, it doesn't upset the passenger. If the oil-fed six-cylinder engine reaches 8,000 RPM, it roars harmoniously, and the modified exhaust system further enhances the sound as desired. Maybe a bit too aggressive? But no.
The Artura privileges power selection, featuring two driving mode switches. But why two? Surely one would suffice. Well, I'll set my preferences accordingly. I want the machine to push me back with full force - I get that when the right switch is on "Comfort" or "Sport."
With "Sport," the engine immediately revs up more aggressively under maximum load. But beware - attempt it only on a clear road, as the Artura accelerates so fiercely it can feel unsettling (accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3 seconds, reaching 200 km/h in 8.4 seconds, and a top speed of 330 km/h).
Combine beautiful curves with this power, and the fun level skyrockets. Additionally, the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission now shifts faster than before, and the expert handling of the brakes is noteworthy for high overall performance. The engineers have optimized the cooling system in this aspect as well.
I wonder why the ceramic disc brakes offer such precise control. I suspect the regenerative braking blending (transition from brake pedal to regenerative braking) is excellent. Actually, the Artura doesn't recuperate at all. Of course, the battery is charged with electricity, either by the engine or during braking, as the engine is dragged along regardless.
Roof opens in eleven seconds
Now, with the sun shining, it means: Roof on! It opens quite quickly (within eleven seconds) and then the wind rages inside the cabin. With an open version, the question always arises, whether the open Artura is more of a Cruiser or a Racer. Briskly, it's clear: Racer. But one can climb into the vehicle comfortably after the visually impressive opening of the scissor doors. And the lightweight bucket seats are not even uncomfortable for longer journeys. Lastly, dampers with faster responding damper characteristic lines make the Artura a delightful companion for both high-octane adventures and relaxed journeys without any need to scrape every last second.
The Artura, McLaren's sleek sports car, can easily cruise through leisurely roads thanks to its built-in speed limiter. However, some of its advertised features disappoint, such as the wireless charging mat for smartphones, which works better with a good old cable. If it weren't for this minor inconvenience, the Artura Spider would fly off the shelves faster than a loaf of freshly baked bread. But hey, let's not forget about the hefty price tag. After all, luxury comes with a dreamy price!
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This McLaren Artura Spider, being a convertible sports car, allows drivers to experience the thrill of high-performance driving with the wind in their hair. The Artura Spider, falling under the entry-level segment in the hybrid-super sports car category, boasts a powerful McLaren automobile engine, delivering an exhilarating drive.
