McLaren 570S Track Pack: driven

Lightweight options enhances already stunning 570S sports car

Constant regeneration is a big theme in the complex world of sports cars. New variants of fresh versions of the latest models; that’s the name of the game – especially as most orders for any particular incarnation are placed within the first year of availability.

To that end, McLaren is increasing the breadth of models offered in its Sports Series range, and here’s the latest version of the 570S: the Track Pack. As the name suggests, it gives the model a circuit-oriented theme. But what’s it like?

McLaren’s five-star 570S provides a near-perfect base, so improving upon such a winning formula is a job of restraint. The Track Pack’s modifications are accordingly minimal and mainly aimed at saving weight, with McLaren Special Operations-sourced trim and paint plus featherweight alloys on the outside, and an Alcantara-upholstered cabin with lightweight race seats inside. Oh, and a 12mm taller rear wing to increase downforce by 29kg at 150mph.

In all, 25kg has been subtracted from the standard 570S’s 1313kg kerbweight. What has been added is a £16,500 premium, which also includes the 675 LT and P1’s Track Telemetry software with infotainment touchscreen display.

These relatively small tweaks make a big difference to the overall driving experience, from the Alcantara-wrapped wheel that intensifies driver involvement with the hydraulic steering system, to the snug, supportive yet long-distance-comfortable sports seats.

The Track Pack’s dynamic package is, of course, superbly poised, even on our test model’s winter tyres. This car turns in like nothing else in its class, teamed however improbably with family hatch ride comfort. The responsive 562bhp 3.8-litre V8 gives this sports car supercar pace – which is appropriate, as the Track Pack takes the 570S closer to the all-involving supercar experience without losing any of that classic McLaren usability.

McLaren 570S Track Pack

Price £159,750
Engine V8, 3799cc, twin-turbocharged petrol
Power 562bhp at 7500rpm
Torque 443lb ft at 5000-6500rpm
Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch auto
Kerbweight 1288kg (dry)
Top speed 204mph
0-62mph 3.2sec
Economy 26.6mpg
CO2/tax band 249g/km, 37%
Rivals Honda NSX, Audi R8 V10

Sarah Bradley is a writer for AutoCar.