McLaren will introduce Spider and Gran Touring versions of its 570S sports car in 2017

McLaren is planning to build out its entry-level line of sports cars to mirror its mid-range 650 series. In 2017, the UK automaker will launch both a Gran Touring and Spider version of its 570S.

The 570S Spider will use the coupe’s 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with 562 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The Spider will feature a folding hardtop roof like the 650S Spider, which shouldn’t result in much additional weight to speak of. In the 650S Spider, its roof and added structural rigidity carries just 88 pounds. If similar engineering practices are applied to the 570S Spider, it should weigh about 2,970 pounds.

McLaren has a good history of its open-top variants matching the performance specs of its coupes, so expect the 570S Spider to hit 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and to top out at 205 mph.

In terms of pricing, McLaren traditionally leverages its convertible sports cars with a $30,000 premium over coupe variants, so based on past practice, the 570S Spider should retail for $223,000.

Before the Spider debuts, McLaren will introduce the rumored Gran Touring version that will have unique, fastback styling, more space, a more luxurious interior, and a smoother ride, making it a more usable vehicle for daily driving and longer trips. The 570S GT will also use the engine from the regular 570S.

By the end of 2017, McLaren will have four versions of its 570 Sport Series, including the internationally sold 540C, the 570S coupe, 570S Spider, and 570S GT. At price points around $200,000, buyers considering the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT and Porsche 911 Turbo may choose the McLaren brand for its performance and exclusivity.

from Planet GS via John Jason Fallows on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1M5EBhb
Miles Branman