The McLaren Artura, launched in February 2021 and produced through February 2024, represents a significant departure for the British supercar manufacturer. It’s McLaren’s first series-production High-Performance Hybrid, marking a pivotal shift towards electrification within their lineup. Positioned as the entry point into the McLaren range, the Artura aimed to deliver supercar performance with improved efficiency and usability compared to its predecessors. Built around a new lightweight architecture, the Artura utilizes a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor, creating a combined output of 680 horsepower. It replaced the Sports Series models (570S, 570 Spider, 600LT, 620R) and is based on a completely new platform, unlike previous McLarens which evolved existing chassis.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | McLaren |
| Model | Artura |
| Generation | Artura |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 (680 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid SSG |
| Start of production | February, 2021 |
| End of production | February, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.6 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (US mpg) | 51.1 US mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 61.4 UK mpg |
| Combined fuel consumption (km/l) | 21.7 km/l |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 300 km/h | 21.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 330 km/h (205.05 mph) |
| Gross battery capacity | 9.2 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 7.4 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 88 kg (194.01 lbs) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 30 km (18.64 mi) |
| Max speed (electric) | 130 km/h (80.78 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 95 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 225 Nm (165.95 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| System power | 680 Hp @ 7500 rpm |
| System torque | 720 Nm @ 2250 rpm (531.04 lb.-ft. @ 2250 rpm) |
| Power | 585 Hp @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 585 Nm @ 2250-7000 rpm (431.47 lb.-ft. @ 2250-7000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 8500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M630 |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.3 l (9.83 US qt | 8.18 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 28 l (29.59 US qt | 24.64 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1498 kg (3302.52 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 160 l (5.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Length | 4539 mm (178.7 in.) |
| Width | 1913 mm (75.31 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1976 mm (77.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2080 mm (81.89 in.) |
| Height | 1193 mm (46.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1613 mm (63.5 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission SSG |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 390 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 380 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Front wheel tires | 235/35 R19 91Y |
| Rear wheel tires | 295/35 R20 105Y |
| Front wheel rims | 9J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 11J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Artura lies the McLaren M630 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This engine is a clean-sheet design, unlike previous McLaren V8s. It features a hot-V configuration, meaning the turbochargers are positioned within the V of the engine, resulting in a more compact design and improved responsiveness. Direct fuel injection and variable valve timing contribute to both power and efficiency. The engine produces 585 horsepower and 431 lb-ft of torque on its own. Supplementing this is a 95 hp electric motor integrated within the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (SSG – Seamless Shift Gearbox). This transmission is a new design for McLaren, lighter and more compact than previous gearboxes. The electric motor provides instant torque fill and allows for short bursts of electric-only driving, up to 30 km (18.6 miles). The battery pack, located under the floor, has a usable capacity of 7.4 kWh.
Driving Characteristics
The Artura delivers a distinctly different driving experience compared to earlier McLaren models. The hybrid powertrain provides a smoother, more refined power delivery, particularly at lower speeds. The electric motor fills in torque gaps from the turbochargers, resulting in near-instantaneous acceleration. While the 0-60 mph time of 3.0 seconds is impressive, the Artura’s real strength lies in its composure and controllability. The SSG transmission offers incredibly fast and seamless gear changes. Compared to a potential V8 Artura, the V6 offers a lower center of gravity, contributing to improved handling. The electric assistance also allows for more precise torque vectoring, enhancing cornering agility. The suspension, tuned for a balance between comfort and performance, provides a relatively compliant ride for a supercar.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Artura came standard with a high level of equipment, reflecting its position as a premium offering. Standard features included leather upholstery, a digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment touchscreen, climate control, and a premium audio system. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing customers to personalize their Artura extensively. These included carbon fiber trim, upgraded audio systems, bespoke paint colors, and various performance enhancements. Interior customization options were extensive, with a wide range of leather and Alcantara choices available. The focus was on creating a luxurious and technologically advanced cabin.
Chassis & Braking
The Artura utilizes a new carbon fiber monocoque chassis, significantly lighter and stiffer than the chassis used in previous Sports Series models. This lightweight construction is crucial for achieving the car’s impressive performance. The suspension features double wishbones at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, both with adaptive dampers. Braking is provided by ventilated discs all around, measuring 390mm at the front and 380mm at the rear. The Artura incorporates a sophisticated electronic stability control system and ABS, ensuring optimal braking performance in all conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The McLaren Artura was generally well-received by automotive critics. Praise was directed towards its innovative hybrid powertrain, exceptional handling, and refined driving experience. Some critics noted the relatively high price tag and the complexity of the hybrid system. Compared to the outgoing 570S, the Artura offered a significant step up in terms of performance, technology, and refinement. Against rivals like the Ferrari 296 GTB and Lamborghini Huracán, the Artura positioned itself as a technologically advanced and efficient alternative. Fuel economy, at 51.1 US mpg (combined), was a notable advantage over its competitors.
Legacy
The McLaren Artura represents a crucial turning point for the brand, signaling its commitment to electrification. The M630 V6 engine and the new SSG transmission are expected to form the basis for future McLaren models. Early reports suggest that the Artura has proven to be relatively reliable, although the complexity of the hybrid system may lead to higher maintenance costs in the long run. On the used car market, the Artura holds its value well, reflecting its desirability and technological significance. As McLaren continues to develop its hybrid and electric vehicle lineup, the Artura will be remembered as the model that paved the way for a new era of performance.
