McLaren is marking its 60th anniversary in motorsport with a continuation of celebrations in its road-going supercar lineup. Following the unveiling of the 750S in April, a successor to the 720S, the latest addition is the GTS, a refined version of the GT model introduced in 2019. The GT aimed to be a daily driver with McLaren’s signature style and performance, but it received mixed reviews in Robb Report’s 2021 Car of the Year competition. Now, the GTS aims to address the GT’s shortcomings.
The rear-wheel-drive GTS, featuring a roof panel made of recycled carbon fiber, presents moderate updates, mainly focused on aesthetics, without significant alterations. It retains the carbon-fiber Monocell II-T monocoque chassis shared with the GT and the Speedtail from McLaren’s Ultimate series. Cargo space remains unchanged at 20.1 cubic feet. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine now produces an additional 14 hp, totaling 626 hp, with 465 ft lbs of torque.
Weighing 3,351 pounds, the GTS is 22 pounds lighter than the GT. Equipped with a seven-speed seamless-shift gearbox (SSG), it accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 203 mph, maintaining the same metrics as its predecessor. Notably, it accelerates from zero to 124 mph faster than the GT, clocking in at 8.9 seconds. The nose-lift feature, offering 5.1 inches of ground clearance, operates in half the time compared to the GT.
Stylistically, the GTS features a more “aggressive” appearance, characterized by a new front bumper, expanded intakes at the front, and taller air scoops on the back fender. New paint options include Mantis Green, Ice White, Tanzanite Blue, and a model-exclusive Lava Grey. The GTS comes standard with 10-twin-spoke forged alloy wheels, with an option for a lighter 10-spoke Turbine design, all fitted with custom Pirelli P Zero tires.
The interior boasts a 10.25-inch digital dash, a 7-inch central touchscreen, and an optional 12-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system. Two trim packages, Performance and TechLux, cater to “sporty, sharp, and technical” or “classical elegance” preferences, respectively.
The GTS is set to begin deliveries in 2024, and its performance and reception will be closely monitored, particularly in comparison to its sibling, the Artura. The Artura, McLaren’s first production-series hybrid and the initial road car with a V-6 engine, is also contending in Robb Report’s 2024 Car of the Year. Results of the competition will be featured in the February issue.
