McLaren 570GT: New ever-more practical model based on the 570S

You can add more kit behind the seats, so you’re really sorted for a weekend away

McLaren is known for its high-end supercars and world-beating engineering

Many have fancied a McLaren 570S. But it’s a pretty hardcore piece of kit, and there are few fripperies or practicalities for those looking for a weekend away. So now McLaren have made a car that is a rival for a Ford Focus hatchback.

You may not be surprised to hear that the McLaren wins. But it’s in the surprising stakes of luggage space. The secret lies in the Touring Deck. This is a side-hinged glass panel that sits behind the cabin. Lift it up and you can nestle up to 220 litres of luggage amid the leather lining. Combine that with the 130 litres of space at the front end, and you have a bigger combined storage area than in the Focus.

You can add more kit behind the seats, so you’re really sorted for a weekend away. You’ll enjoy getting there. The engine is the same as in the 570S, so a 3.8-litre twin-turbo unit pumping out 562bhp.

And you’ll be more comfortable too, since the spring rates have been softened on the adaptive suspension system. The ride has been improved over rougher surfaces, so you should get there neither shaken nor stirred.

On the way you’ll be able to enjoy the view more thanks to a tinted panoramic roof, which makes the cabin airier without letting in any nasty noise or UV. The rest of the interior has been upgraded, and there are Luxury or Sport themes available for the trim.

The whole rear end has been upgraded, with improved aerodynamics, but the weight has marginally gone up thanks to the changes. This has had a minute effect on performance, easily outweighed by the increased pleasure and practicality.

The 570GT is going to cost £154,000 and up, and it will form part of the Sports Series within McLaren. We should see this GT this summer, with a convertible version due a year later.