In the high-octane world of supercars, a few names instantly command respect — Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and, of course, McLaren. Known for blending cutting-edge motorsport technology with elegant yet purposeful design, McLaren Automotive has created some of the most iconic performance machines in modern history.
Among them, the McLaren 720S stands as a pinnacle of the brand’s “Super Series” — a car that isn’t just fast on paper but engineered to thrill in every possible way. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about the pure, unfiltered driving experience.
Launched in 2017 as the successor to the McLaren 720S, the 720S brought a fresh wave of innovation. With its aerodynamically sculpted body, lightweight carbon-fibre chassis, and twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering mind-bending acceleration, it quickly became a benchmark for what a modern supercar should be.
Table of Contents
1. McLaren’s Legacy – How the 720S Came to Be
Before we jump into the specifics of the McLaren 720S, it’s worth understanding McLaren’s DNA.
Founded in 1963 by racing driver Bruce McLaren, the company built its reputation in Formula 1, winning multiple world championships and becoming a technological leader in motorsport.
In 2010, McLaren Automotive entered the road car segment with the MP4-12C, a car that set the tone for all future McLarens: lightweight construction, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and uncompromising performance.
The Super Series lineup represented McLaren’s mid-tier performance range, sitting between the entry-level “Sports Series” and the extreme “Ultimate Series.” The McLaren 720S was already an impressive machine, but McLaren knew it could push the limits further — and thus, the 720S was born.
2. Exterior Design – Aerodynamics in Motion
The McLaren 720S doesn’t just look fast; every curve, crease, and vent is designed to serve a purpose. It’s the perfect marriage of form and function.
Key Design Features:
- Dihedral Doors: Signature McLaren butterfly-style doors open upwards, not just for drama but also for better access in tight spaces.
- Active Aero Elements: Adjustable rear wing acts as an air brake at high speeds and a downforce enhancer during cornering.
- Headlamp Air Channels: The unique “eye socket” headlamps double as air intakes, directing cooling air to the radiators.
- Carbon Fibre Monocage II: A central chassis tub that keeps the structure ultra-light yet incredibly rigid.
- Flowing Body Lines: Designed to guide air efficiently around the car, reducing drag and increasing stability.
TheMcLaren 720S has no unnecessary ornamentation — every panel has a role in improving performance, cooling, or stability. Even the door mirrors are shaped to minimise turbulence.
3. Engine & Performance – Brutal Power, Finesse Delivery
At the heart of the McLaren 720S lies a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine (M840T) producing:
- Power: 720 PS (710 horsepower) at 7,500 rpm
- Torque: 770 Nm at 5,500 rpm
- 0–100 km/h: 2.8 seconds
- Top Speed: 341 km/h (212 mph)
This engine isn’t just about raw power; it’s about how it delivers that power. The twin turbos spool almost instantly, offering near-linear acceleration without the lag you’d expect from turbocharged engines.
Transmission & Drivetrain
- 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
- Lightning-fast gear changes, with seamless upshifts and aggressive downshifts
- Rear-wheel-drive layout for ultimate driver engagement
The McLaren 720S can embarrass million-dollar hypercars in a straight line while remaining remarkably composed in corners.
4. Chassis, Handling & Ride Comfort
McLaren’s suspension technology is nothing short of genius. The Proactive Chassis Control II system uses an interconnected hydraulic suspension instead of traditional anti-roll bars, allowing the car to adapt instantly to road and track conditions.
Driving Modes:
- Comfort Mode: Surprisingly compliant for city driving — yes, you can take this supercar grocery shopping.
- Sport Mode: Sharper throttle response, stiffer suspension, and a more aggressive gearbox mapping.
- Track Mode: Maximum performance, with reduced electronic intervention for skilled drivers.
Steering feedback is hydraulically assisted (unlike most electric systems), giving an old-school, tactile connection to the road.
5. Interior & Technology – Minimalism Meets Luxury
The cabin of the McLaren 720S is driver-focused with just the right balance of luxury and functionality.
Interior Highlights:
- High-quality materials: Alcantara, Nappa leather, and exposed carbon fibre.
- Driver-centric cockpit: All controls angled towards the driver.
- Folding Driver Display: Digital gauge cluster that folds down to a slim display showing only essential information in Track mode.
- Infotainment System: 7-inch vertical touchscreen with navigation, Bluetooth, and smartphone connectivity.
- Practical Storage: 150 litres of boot space in the front trunk — enough for a weekend getaway.
While some rival supercars overwhelm with tech, McLaren keeps things simple, focusing on driving engagement above all.
6. Ownership Experience & Running Costs
Owning a McLaren 720S is both a privilege and a responsibility. Maintenance costs are naturally higher than regular sports cars, but McLaren offers service packages to make ownership smoother.
Maintenance Costs:
- Annual service: ₹2–3 lakh (approx.)
- Tyre replacement: ₹4–6 lakh for a full set
- Insurance: ₹8–12 lakh annually in India
Resale value is strong for well-maintained examples, and with limited production numbers, the 720S is likely to remain desirable for years.
7. Competition – Who Does the 720S Go Up Against?
The McLaren 720S competes in the elite supercar league, facing off against:
- Ferrari F8 Tributo: Offers similar performance but with a naturally aspirated feel from a V8 twin-turbo.
- Lamborghini Huracán STO: Focuses on emotional appeal and a screaming naturally aspirated V10.
- Porsche 911 Turbo S: More practical but not as exotic in appearance.
- Aston Martin DBS Superleggera: A grand tourer with a big V12 punch.
In most performance tests, the 720S out-accelerates and out-handles its rivals, making it a true performance benchmark.
8. Customization – McLaren Special Operations (MSO)
For buyers wanting something truly unique, McLaren Special Operations offers bespoke customization.
From one-off paint finishes to tailor-made interiors and even custom aerodynamic components, MSO can turn your 720S into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
9. Driving Impressions – From the Track to the Streets
Behind the wheel, the McLaren 720S feels alive. The instant throttle response, combined with ultra-precise steering, creates a driving experience that’s both thrilling and confidence-inspiring.
On the track, it’s razor-sharp — the chassis feels like an extension of your body. On public roads, the adaptive suspension makes it surprisingly usable for daily drives, something few supercars can claim.
10. Final Verdict – The Complete Supercar
The McLaren 720S isn’t just a fast car; it’s an engineering masterpiece. It offers hypercar performance for a fraction of the price, daily usability that defies expectations, and a level of driving engagement few cars can match.
For enthusiasts who want the thrill of racing technology, wrapped in a street-legal package, the 720S is hard to beat. It’s not just a machine; it’s an experience — one that leaves you breathless every time you press the accelerator.
