As an automotive content creator, it’s a privilege to get behind the wheel of truly exceptional vehicles. My week-long experience with the 2019 Mclaren 720s was nothing short of extraordinary, placing it among the most memorable supercars I’ve ever reviewed. Having previously tested incredible machines like the Audi R8, Aston Martin DB11, and McLaren 570GT, the 720S elevates the supercar experience to a new echelon. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement of automotive prowess.
Potent Powertrain: The Heart of the Beast
At the core of the 2019 McLaren 720S lies a formidable 4.0-liter V8 engine, enhanced with twin turbochargers. This powerhouse delivers a staggering 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, translating to breathtaking performance. The 2019 McLaren 720S catapults from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.7 seconds. For those daring enough to keep the pedal down, this rear-wheel-drive marvel can reach a top speed of 212 mph, placing it firmly in hypercar territory.
Complementing this immense power is a lightning-fast 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Gear changes are executed with seamless speed and precision, both in automatic mode and when using the steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. While the transmission’s responsiveness is almost telepathic, the tactile engagement of manual shifting adds another layer of driver involvement, enhancing the connection with this incredible machine.
The 2019 McLaren 720S offers a customizable driving experience through its intuitive handling and powertrain mode selectors, located on the dash. These knobs allow drivers to independently adjust handling and powertrain settings, offering Normal, Sport, and Track modes. This versatility effectively provides multiple personalities within one car. For everyday driving, Sport mode for both handling and powertrain strikes a perfect balance. On open roads or when seeking maximum thrills, pairing Sport handling with Track powertrain mode unleashes the 720S’s full potential. The standard Normal mode, while comfortable, feels somewhat restrained compared to the car’s inherent capabilities.
For the adventurous driver, the 720S includes a Variable Drift Control mode, accessible via the infotainment screen. This feature allows for controlled power slides, but prudence prevailed during my test drive of this high-value vehicle. Engaging in such maneuvers demands expertise and a willingness to push limits, something best reserved for experienced drivers in controlled environments.
Aerodynamic Design and Lightweight Construction
The 2019 McLaren 720S achieves an astonishingly low weight of just 3,191 pounds – comparable to a standard Ford Focus. This remarkable feat is even more impressive considering the robust V8 engine at its heart. McLaren’s commitment to lightweight engineering is evident in the 720S’s carbon fiber chassis and extensive use of aluminum for body panels. This construction philosophy not only minimizes weight but also maximizes structural rigidity, contributing to the car’s exceptional handling and responsiveness.
Beyond weight savings, the 720S’s bodywork is a masterclass in aerodynamic efficiency. Every contour and vent is meticulously sculpted to channel airflow for optimal downforce and cooling. Examining the intricate network of air channels reveals the depth of engineering dedicated to ensuring the 720S remains stable and planted at high speeds, while also efficiently managing engine and brake temperatures. This aerodynamic focus is not just about aesthetics; it’s fundamental to the car’s performance capabilities.
Striking Aesthetics and Practicality
The 2019 McLaren 720S is undeniably a visual masterpiece. Its exterior design is both aggressive and elegant, characterized by its low stance, flowing lines, and distinctive 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels. Beyond its striking looks, the 720S offers surprising practicality for a supercar. The front cargo area provides 5.3 cubic feet of storage, complemented by an additional 7.4 cubic feet behind the seats. This combined 12.7 cubic feet of storage space, much of it luxuriously appointed in leather, makes the 720S genuinely capable of accommodating luggage for longer journeys, a rare trait in the supercar realm.
The dihedral doors of the 2019 McLaren 720S are a signature element, guaranteed to draw attention. These twin-hinged doors not only open forward and upward in a dramatic fashion but also feature a soft-close mechanism for effortless operation. Their lightweight construction makes them surprisingly easy to maneuver, despite their visual complexity. While these doors enhance the car’s visual drama, they also serve a functional purpose, improving ingress and egress, especially given the car’s low ride height. Mastering the art of entering and exiting gracefully might require a few attempts, but the initial awkwardness is quickly overshadowed by the sheer spectacle of these doors.
Luxurious and Technology-Forward Interior
Stepping inside the 2019 McLaren 720S reveals an interior that seamlessly blends high performance with opulent luxury. Sumptuous Nappa leather and Alcantara upholstery envelop the cabin, with seats that provide exceptional support during spirited driving. The cabin ambiance is further enhanced by glass panels integrated into the dihedral doors, cleverly recessed to maximize headroom and create an airy feeling within the cockpit.
The center console is thoughtfully laid out, featuring prominent controls including the engine start button and launch control – essential for unleashing the 720S’s full acceleration potential. Large, clearly labeled switches manage the transmission modes (Drive, Neutral, Reverse). Upon engine shutdown, the transmission automatically engages Park mode. While equipped with a start/stop system for fuel efficiency, it can be easily disabled for a more traditional driving experience.
To the left of the steering wheel, a cluster of buttons provides convenient access to front cargo release, door locking, and a unique feature: a folding driver display. This innovative display transforms the digital gauge cluster into a simplified view, showing only essential information for track driving, minimizing distractions and maximizing focus on the road ahead.
The vertically oriented infotainment screen dominates the center of the dash, serving as the command center for the 2019 McLaren 720S‘s technology. It controls the sound system, navigation, Track Telemetry (for real-time track performance data), Variable Drift Control, garage door opener, rearview camera settings, and even houses an electronic owner’s manual. Notably, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration were not yet available on this model year, which is a minor omission in an otherwise comprehensively equipped vehicle.
Options and Performance Technology
The 2019 McLaren 720S comes generously equipped as standard, but my test vehicle included $54,700 in optional extras, further enhancing its luxury and performance. These options included the Performance Package, a striking Blade Silver paint finish, park assist, a premium 12-speaker sound system, eye-catching red brake calipers, and distinctive five-spoke wheels.
Two key technological features deserve special mention. The Proactive Chassis Control system utilizes an array of sensors to dynamically adjust the suspension, optimizing handling and ride comfort across varying road surfaces. Secondly, the active rear spoiler automatically deploys to enhance aerodynamic stability at high speeds and can also be manually raised via a button. This spoiler also acts as an airbrake, contributing to rapid deceleration during high-speed braking.
Pricing and Practicalities
The base MSRP for the 2019 McLaren 720S is around $293,000, but as equipped with options, the model I tested carried a sticker price of $351,790, including transportation. Fuel economy is rated at 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway – figures that are realistic if driven with restraint, although the 720S inevitably encourages a more spirited driving style.
Final Verdict: An Unrivaled Supercar Experience
In conclusion, the 2019 McLaren 720S delivers an unparalleled blend of power, handling, and luxury. While some sports cars demand compromises, the 720S excels across the board. Its performance is breathtaking, regardless of road conditions, and it would be equally at home on a racetrack or cruising city streets. The exhaust note is intoxicating, and the overall package represents a truly exceptional grand tourer capable of exceeding 200 mph.
While it may seem paradoxical to some enthusiasts, the slight turbo lag present in the 720S is actually an endearing characteristic. The initial surge of acceleration followed by the explosive boost of the turbochargers creates an engaging and predictable power delivery. Anticipating the turbo boost becomes part of the driving experience, adding to the overall thrill.
Surprisingly, visibility in the 720S is excellent for a supercar. Typically, vehicles in this class suffer from significant blind spots, particularly when changing lanes. However, the intelligent design of the 720S mitigates this issue, providing a surprisingly clear view of the surroundings.
A word of caution: driving the 2019 McLaren 720S attracts attention. Be prepared for onlookers, including those who may attempt to capture photos while driving, sometimes with less regard for road safety. Maintaining awareness of your surroundings is crucial when piloting such a head-turning machine.
2019 McLaren 720S: Key Highlights
- Top Likes: Striking exterior design, exhilarating performance, and exceptional handling.
- Areas for Improvement: Slight road noise, though within acceptable limits for a supercar.
- MSRP: Base price $293,000, as tested $351,790 (including transportation).
- Fuel Economy: 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway / 18 mpg combined.
- Exterior Color: Blade Silver.
- Odometer Reading at Test: 300 miles.
- Weight: 3,128 pounds.
- Spare Tire: N/A.
- Dimensions (L-W-H): 179” x 85” x 47”.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 16 gallons (passenger side filler).
- Towing Capacity: N/A.
- 2019 720S in a Sentence: An exhilarating supercar that commands envy and delivers an unmatched driving experience.
- Warranty: 3-year/unlimited mileage with roadside assistance.
- Assembly Location: Woking, Surrey, UK.
- Manufacturer Website: https://cars.mclaren.com
- Next Up: 2019 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 63 S Coupe
