McLaren has taken the wraps off its latest masterpiece, the Artura Spider, boasting an impressive 700 horsepower. This hybrid convertible is set to outshine its coupe counterpart in terms of power and performance, promising an exhilarating blend of open-air freedom and cutting-edge technology. According to McLaren’s new CEO, Michael Leiters, the Artura Spider offers “more power, more dynamic performance, and even higher levels of connection…without any compromise in everyday driving.”
The anticipation for the Spider version is high, especially since the Artura coupe was a close second in Robb Report’s 2024 Car of the Year contest, even winning over the editorial team as their top pick. The question remains: could the convertible surpass its predecessor?
While we eagerly await a chance to get behind the wheel this summer, a sneak peek at McLaren’s state-of-the-art facility in Woking, England, offered us an in-depth look at what the Artura Spider brings to the table, straight from the engineers who brought this vision to life.
The Artura Spider distinguishes itself with a folding hardtop roof that vanishes in just 11 seconds, even at speeds of up to 31 mph. The roof, crafted from carbon-fiber composite, can optionally feature electrochromic glass, allowing drivers to adjust transparency with the push of a button.
Under the hood lies McLaren’s advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 with an axial flux electric motor. Thanks to recalibrated engine software, the Spider version enjoys an additional 20 hp over the coupe, totaling 700 hp. The transmission has been refined to offer quicker shift speeds by 25 percent, ensuring that the Spider is as swift as it is stylish.
McLaren’s dedication to minimizing weight means the convertible requires no extra chassis bracing, and the innovative roof mechanism adds a mere 137 pounds. This meticulous engineering results in the Artura Spider being the lightest convertible supercar in its category.
Performance-wise, the Spider matches the coupe, accelerating from zero to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds and achieving a top speed of 205 mph. Additionally, the hybrid powertrain now provides up to 21 miles of electric-only range, enhancing its appeal as a daily driver with a green edge.
Visual updates include the Papaya Spark exterior, a nod to McLaren’s iconic color palette, alongside “Stealth” black badges. The redesigned rear accommodates the folding roof, with added vents for cooling and aerodynamic enhancements that include clear polycarbonate buttresses for improved airflow and visibility.
McLaren has also refined the exhaust system for a richer sound, particularly when approaching the 8,500 rpm redline, with an optional sports exhaust for those craving extra auditory excitement. The Artura Spider promises a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined, with improved ride comfort, body control, and responsiveness.
As the Artura coupe already plays a significant role in McLaren’s lineup, the convertible is poised to become the brand’s top seller, with orders now open and deliveries expected later this summer. The Spider’s debut signifies not just another addition to McLaren’s lineup but a new benchmark for hybrid convertible supercars.
