Limited Edition McLaren 675LT Is The Brand’s Closest Thing To The P1

Built in a limited run of 500 units, the McLaren 675LT is essentially a 650S taken to the extremes

It’s amazing how far McLaren has come after launching its second road car in 2011 – the MP4-12C. Besides the 12C, which is now known as the 650S, McLaren has brought the P1 hybrid hypercar to market and now has also launched a limited-edition model based on the 650S called 675LT.

The letters LT are an homage to the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail race car, as the McLaren 675LT is the lightest, most powerful, fastest and most track-focused model in the McLaren Super Series family (which also includes the 650S and 625C). It is also the most exclusive in the range, with only 500 coupes to be built, all of which are already spoken for.

The 675LT has an aerodynamically optimized bodywork that gives it 40 percent more downforce than the 650S. Furthermore, weight has been reduced by 100 kg (220 lbs) thanks to the extensive use of carbon fiber and of lighter components throughout, including newly developed suspension geometry derived from the McLaren P1.

Thanks to these weight saving measures, the 675LT has a dry weight of just 1,230 kg (2,712 lbs), which translates into a power-to-weight ratio of 549 PS (541 hp) per tone. The car is powered by a newly-developed M838TL 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine rated at 675 PS (666 hp) at 7,100rpm, with a torque figure of 700 Nm (516 lb ft) at 5,500-6,500rpm.

Needless to say, performance numbers are staggering. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 2.9 seconds, while the 200 km/h (124mph) barrier is broken in 7.9 seconds on the way to a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph). Fuel consumption is not bad, given these performance specs: McLaren says the 675LT returns 24.2 mpg UK (11.7 l/100 km or 20.1 mpg US) on the EU combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of 275g/km.

Compared with the 650S, front ride height is reduced while the track is wider. Handling is optimized through a stiffer and lighter suspension setup, with the adjustable suspension settings recalibrated to boost driving engagement, road holding and agility.

Despite the breathtaking performance, McLaren says the 675LT retains much of the 650S’ usability and practicality. The cabin is upholstered in lightweight Alcantara and features a four-speaker Meridian hi-fi, DAB digital radio (Sirius satellite radio in North America) and a satellite navigation system as standard. Air conditioning has been removed to save weight, but can be specified as a no cost option.

The McLaren 675LT will be offered first as a coupe, with a price of £259,500 in the UK. Deliveries begin in July 2015.