Legendary manufacturers in the world of supercars include Ferrari and Lamborghini, who, in the 1940s and 1960s, kicked off what would become the world’s largest six-figure supercar arms race. There are also recent entrants like Rimac, a manufacturer of electric vehicles, and luxury supercar manufacturer, Pagani.
Another automaker with extensive racing background is McLaren, who continues to make a strong statement with its Formula 1 race car. Now beginning its second decade as a manufacturer of production cars, McLaren, like all those race car heroes, is currently thinking about sustainability, beginning with the 2023 McLaren Artura plug-in hybrid. Although this isn't McLaren's first hybrid supercar, the Artura is the company's first "series" production hybrid.
Here’s all you should know about the famous 2023 McLaren Artura.
2023 McLaren Artura Has Jaw-Dropping Performance Figures
In terms of powertrain, the new McLaren Artura squares up against the Maserati MC20 and the outgoing hybrid Acura NSX. And let's not forget the Ferrari GTB. The new Artura hybrid has a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, which, when combined with an electric motor and a 7.4-kWh battery, produces a staggering 671 horsepower.
In contrast, the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 in the new Ferrari 296 GTB, which also works with an electric motor and plug, produces up to 818 horsepower. However, the Artura costs considerably less than the Ferrari GTB. The Maserati MC20 also sports a twin-turbo V6, but it's not a hybrid. Its Nettuno engine produces 621 horsepower. All three vehicles have multi-clutch gearboxes that feature paddle shifters and an automatic mode.
Speaking of modes, the Artura offers distinct driving modes for the engine and handling, just like the earlier McLarens. Both come in Comfort, Sport, and Track options. The engine won't run when in electric powertrain mode. When halted, it will also turn off the engine using its stop/start feature.
With an electronic limited-slip differential and rear-wheel drive, the Artura automatically distributes power to the wheel with the best traction. It has a top speed of 205 mph and can reach 60 mph in 3 seconds from a complete stop. It can also reach 124 mph in 8.3 seconds. A Level 2 EV charger, which operates off a 220-volt outlet, can charge the McLaren Artura's battery completely in 2.5 hours, allowing you more time to enjoy the ride.
The 2023 McLaren Artura Enjoys Excellent Lightweight Benefits
The Artura has a curb weight of just 3,303 lbs thanks to the new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA), which focuses on weight reduction in all areas, including the electrical systems. According to the brand, this platform will support a wide array of McLaren models in the future. Its battery pack and electric motor add up to a total weight of 287 lbs for the hybrid parts.
An additional innovation is also present in the Artura's chassis. McLaren was able to integrate a number of parts into the chassis that would typically need separate fastening, thanks to cutting-edge carbon fiber fabrication techniques. These include suspension mounting points, upper seat belt anchors, and door hinges. Fewer parts equal more rigidity and lighter components.
The 2023 McLaren Artura’s Cabin Takes On A Simple, Yet Sporty Approach
In contrast to Ferrari, which places all the controls on the steering wheel, McLaren left them off. The typical stalks for the wipers and turn signals are present in the driver's seat, but there are no radio controls. To the left of the steering wheel are buttons for the nose lift, lane keeping (added together with adaptive cruise control via over-the-air updates with the new electrical architecture), and door locks.
The paddle shifters and digital instrument cluster are nicely fastened to the simple wheel. Important information is constantly visible because that cluster rotates with steering wheel adjustment. In the middle of the seats are the gear selector buttons.
There are two seat options inside. The first is a motorized "comfort" system, and the second one is the Clubsport seat. With these options, the seat slides and pivots to various driving positions while maintaining its bucket shape. Although both are comfy, enthusiasts will love the Clubsport seats. It's good that McLaren relocated the adjustment controls to the exterior of the seats, where they were initially more difficult to discover and use.
2023 McLaren Artura Packs Some Interesting Tech Features
Featuring Apple CarPlay, the Artura's new 8-inch touchscreen is standard. It has a portrait layout with a side-mounted volume control and a home button. It has the appearance of a large watch face thanks to the metal ring around the screen and winder-like volume dial.
The Artura is the brand’s first car to provide advanced driver-aid technologies due to its innovative electronics (ADAS). They feature Lane-Departure Warning, Road-Sign Recognition, and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop/Go.
2023 McLaren Artura: Pricing
Previous hybrid vehicles from McLaren cost over $1 million and were only made in very small numbers. The base price of the 2023 Artura is $235,000, and it can be fully equipped for less than $260,000. The majority of purchasers who could afford a McLaren's price tag could also afford a Ferrari, a Porsche 911 Turbo and a Lamborghini Huracan. But, with its personality, name, and history, the Artura, nevertheless, provides something unique.
With a combined rating of 18 MPG and a fully charged battery rating of 39 MPGe, McLaren has developed a hybrid supercar that is neither more expensive nor heavier than comparable vehicles, yet offers equivalent performance, lower emissions, and higher fuel efficiency.
Source: McLaren