McLaren reveals Artura Spider

For a start a re-flashed engine ECU raises the plug-in hybrid, twin-turbo V6 powertrain from 671bhp to 691bhp (or 700PS as McLaren likes to call it), while a new exhaust system should improve its voice too. There’s a new launch control mode designed to provoke gratuitous wheelspin, and new engine mounts to limit further the movement of the powertrain within the structure.

The shift times of the eight-speed gearbox are 25 per cent faster, new dampers have been fitted to the suspension improving their reaction times by 90 per cent, new ducts bring better brake cooling and they’ve even managed to add a couple more miles to its EV-only range, bringing it to 21 miles. To appease existing Artura owners, the next time they visit their dealer, it will emerge 20bhp stronger and for no extra cost.

Why such a comprehensive suite of revisions so early in the life of the car? Part of it is McLaren’s strategy of continuous improvement and with an all-new car like the Artura, there’s bound to be more scope than usual. But also had the car been launched when originally planned and not suffered multiple delays getting to market, such modifications would now seem far more timely.

The 2025 Artura Spider is priced at £221,500, a premium of almost exactly £20,000 over the coupé.