USA - 2015 Lincoln Navigator, better interior, better looks and more powerful engines.

• A redesigned exterior, updated interior, more powerful engine, additional customer-focused technologies and new luxurious appointments elevate Lincoln Navigator in the full-size luxury SUV market
• A new 3.5-liter, twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® engine delivers more power; available Lincoln Drive Control with Continuously Controlled Damping provides a smoother ride; electric power-assisted steering improves handling; and puddle lamps that create a “welcome mat” below both front doors offer a new level of elegance
• An available Reserve Package includes 22-inch wheels and ultra-luxurious leather with premium Ziricote wood trim

The Lincoln Motor Company introduces the new 2015 Navigator, offering a fresh interpretation of a classic vehicle that has long defined the full-size luxury sport utility segment.

At the Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 6, the public will get its first look at a new Navigator that takes on a changed presence for the 2015 model year. Exterior design changes are accentuated by the reintroduction of Lincoln’s iconic split-wing grille. Interior enhancements include luxurious leather and additional customer-focused technologies. The more refined appearance complements enhanced power and hauling capabilities that Navigator customers demand.

The sleeker front end includes a newly designed hood, and the reimagined back end features a power up/down tailgate. On both ends, the vehicle wears jewel-like light-emitting diode (LED) lights, as well as high-intensity discharge (HID) adaptive headlamps with LED accents.

“We knew what our customers wanted,” said Elaine Bannon, chief engineer of the 2015 Navigator. “Navigator has always had great features, and we were able to keep those things. I’m proud that we were able to give our customers so much more.”

Navigator comes standard with 20-inch, machined aluminum wheels, while Reserve Package vehicles are equipped with 22-inch, polished aluminum wheels. Reserve Package Navigators also offer optional chrome-accented running boards.

As with current-generation models, the 2015 Navigator will be available in standard-length (207.4 inches) and extended-length (222.3 inches) versions.

Luxuriously appointed interior
Navigator has long been synonymous with large-scale luxury. On the 2015 Navigator, the Reserve Package introduces a new level of luxury to the vehicle’s interior, providing customers with:

• An updated cabin that extends ultra-luxurious leather to all three rows of seats, as well as to the armrests, center console and transmission shifter
• A hand-wrapped, leather instrument panel with contrast stitching and leather glove box door
• Premium Ziricote wood trim, a luxurious natural-grain wood new to the automotive industry, most commonly used as an accent in yachts

Navigator comes standard with the new Lincoln steering wheel, introduced on the recently revealed MKC premium small utility. The Wollsdorf leather-wrapped, wood-trimmed wheel features a thicker grip and softer touch for a more dynamic driving experience.

Designed to seat up to eight people, Navigator offers buyers second-row options that include two captain’s chairs, with or without a center console, or a fold-flat bench. Due in part to Navigator’s patented independent rear suspension, which allows for true fold-flat, PowerFold® third-row seats, extended-length and standard wheelbase models are projected to deliver segment-leading cargo volume.

Extended-length models provide 128.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, 86.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, and 42.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row; standard wheelbase models deliver 103.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, 54.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row.

“We have this iconic vehicle with untapped potential,” Bannon said. “Now it’s got more of what our customers want. It’s got the new Lincoln design DNA on the exterior, a redesigned instrument panel, a leather Reserve Package, 22-inch wheels. Once we were able to include all of those elements, I knew we had a winner.”

A smoother, more powerful ride
Replacing the 5.4-liter V8 that has powered Navigator for years is a more powerful and fuel-efficient 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine.

The twin turbocharged, direct injection engine is projected to deliver at least 370 horsepower and 430 lb.-ft. of torque, according to preliminary test data. Final numbers will be available closer to production. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost is also projected to deliver best-in-class towing.

Navigator features a six-speed automatic transmission with Lincoln’s SelectShift, which allows the driver to manually control gears if desired. The vehicle is available in both four-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive configurations. The available Control Trac Four-Wheel-Drive system enhances traction on slippery surfaces, helps improve handling on dry roads and enables off-road capability.

Helping make this the best-handling Navigator ever is the addition of standard electric power-assisted steering. This allows for more consistent and precise control of the vehicle through a range of speeds while simultaneously making it easier to maneuver at low speeds, and in particular making it easier to park.

The Lincoln Drive Control option adds Lincoln’s Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD), a suspension system that monitors multiple vehicle sensors and road conditions every two milliseconds and adjusts the suspension needs accordingly. CCD also provides a smoother and improved ride – best-ever for Navigator – and allows the driver to customize the ride of the vehicle by selecting one of three different control modes: Normal, Sport and Comfort.

Navigator also offers driver-friendly Hill Start/Descent Assist. When parked on a hill with a grade of five degrees or more, the vehicle remains stationary for up to two seconds after the driver releases the brake pedal.

Standard-equipped Navigators will continue to offer Nivomat®, a load-leveling system that automatically raises a loaded rear end to optimum ride height for improved handling. The mechanical leveling system helps reduce uneven wear on front and rear tires and helps maintain better vehicle aerodynamics.

Technology-based luxury
Illuminated “welcome mats” beneath both front doors greet Navigator owners when they press the “unlock” button on the key fob.

A passive entry system allows owners to enter without using a key. The system senses when the key fob is in range of the door and allows for keyless access via a door-mounted button. Inside, a push-button start allows for keyless engine ignition.

The latest SYNC® with MyLincoln Touch™ driver connectivity system is standard. The system allows drivers to use voice-activated or touch screen controls to make phone calls, play music, use the navigation system or set cabin temperature controls. The system includes 4.2-inch LCD displays in the instrument cluster, an 8-inch touch screen in the center stack and traditional knob controls for easy operation.

The available Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) signals when another vehicle is detected in an adjacent lane behind either rear wheel. Standard for 2015, Navigator also introduces a new rearview camera, which displays a color image on the 8-inch touch screen for help when driving in reverse.

Rebirth of an icon
Navigator was wildly popular the moment it hit the streets in the late 1990s, and spent more than a decade as one of the top-selling vehicles in the segment. Featuring seating for up to eight passengers, luxury cues typically reserved for sedans and cargo space and towing capacity to haul virtually anything, Navigator set the full-size luxury SUV standard.

It was an immediate success, accounting for 41 percent of in-segment sales by the 2000 model year. Aiming to recapture that glory, the 2015 Navigator offers nearly two dozen upgrades from the current generation.

“Navigator has retained some of the most loyal following in the segment for more than a decade,” said Jim Farley, executive vice president, Ford global marketing, sales and service and Lincoln. “Among Lincoln owners, more than 70 percent have been return customers – purchasing the vehicle for its power, for its beauty and for its capability, and this new Navigator gives them more on all three fronts.”

Production of the 2015 Navigator is scheduled to begin late this summer at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Ky., and vehicles are due in Lincoln showrooms in early fall.

Stonking Merc S65 AMG to keep the Super Limo alive

Twelve cylinders, twin-turbocharging, 630 hp of output and 1000 Newton-metres of torque – the new S 65 AMG sets new standards as the most powerful vehicle in its segment of the market. Exceptional performance and outstanding dynamism – these are the hallmarks of the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine. With its reduced fuel consumption and compliance with the EU 6 exhaust emissions standard, the new V12 saloon is fit for the future. The AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL comes as standard with ROAD SURFACE SCAN, the world's first suspension with eyes. It goes without saying that the S 65 AMG offers supreme exclusivity in design and equipment specification. Two innovations, the head-up display and the touchpad, represent further enhancements in terms of comfort and safety.

The S 65 AMG is the only high-performance 12-cylinder automobile from a German premium manufacturer – and it's a car with a pedigree: the first generation of the S 65 AMG (V 220) was launched in 2003, with the second generation (V 221) being produced from 2006 until 2013.

Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "Soon after the successful launch of the S 63 AMG, we are unveiling the new S 65 AMG. Supreme exclusivity and incomparable dynamism provide the guarantee of a high fascination potential. With the third generation of the S 65 AMG, we offer our loyal and discerning V12 customers a unique high-performance automobile."

Key data at a glance:

The AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine delivers 630 hp with a maximum torque of 1000 Newton-metres – figures that enable the S 65 AMG to outperform all other vehicles in its segment. This superiority is highlighted by the car's performance: the S 65 AMG accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited). The strengths of the 12-cylinder biturbo engine from Mercedes-AMG include its effortless acceleration in all speed ranges as well as its refined operation with the distinctive V12 sound typical of AMG. In short: the S 65 AMG impresses with its superior and stylish performance.

With a fuel consumption of 23.7 mpg (NEDC, combined), the new S 65 AMG is the world's most fuel-efficient V12 high-performance saloon in terms of power and torque. The range-topping 12-cylinder model already meets the requirements of the EU6 emissions standard, which is not due to come into force until 2015.

Technical highlights of the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine:

• Biturbo charging
• Aluminium crankcase
• Forged crankshaft of high-grade alloy steel
• Multi-spark ignition with 12 twin-spark ignition units
• Air-to-water intercooler with low-temperature circuit
• Alternator management
• ECO start/stop function

Exclusive carbon-fibre engine cover with AMG engine badge

Opening the bonnet reveals the exclusive carbon-fibre/aluminium engine cover, which is a further sign of the exceptional status of the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine. Two AMG logos on left and right together with a centrally positioned Mercedes star create a lasting impression. The 12-cylinder engine is assembled by hand at AMG's engine production facility in compliance with the most rigorous quality standards according to the philosophy "one man, one engine". Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine badge bearing the engine technician's signature underneath the Mercedes star offers unmistakable proof of the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC

As before in the SL 65 AMG high-performance roadster, AMG combines the 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC. Unlike in the direct predecessor of the S 65 AMG, which featured an AMG SPEEDSHIFT five-speed automatic transmission, the seven-speed automatic transmission with its wide ratio spread guarantees a noticeably lower engine speed level. This makes a key contribution to reducing the vehicle's fuel consumption. The efficiency of the powertrain is further significantly improved by the fuel-economy converter, reduced-friction bearings and transmission oil heat management.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC has three individual driving programmes, which can be selected at the press of a button in the centre console: Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S) and Manual (M). In modes S and M the emphasis is on sportiness: maximum emotive appeal combined with truly perceivable dynamics is ensured by the brief, precisely defined cutback of ignition and injection during upshifts under full load; this shortens the shift times and lends an audibly more emotive tone to gearshifts. The ECO start/stop function is always activated in transmission mode "C".

Lithium-ion battery reduces weight by over 20 kilograms

Like the S 63 AMG, the S 65 AMG features a lithium-ion battery. This innovative technology offers numerous advantages over a conventional battery concept: with a capacity of 78 Ah, the lithium-ion battery replaces both the starter battery and the backup battery – resulting in a weight saving of over 20 kilograms. The high-performance battery is relatively insensitive to cold temperatures and has compact dimensions. S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG are the world's first volume-produced vehicles with such a battery concept.

AMG sports suspension with MAGIC BODY CONTROL

The S 65 AMG features as standard the AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL. The new S-Class is the first car in the world able to recognise road surface undulations in advance. If ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects such undulations with the help of the stereo camera, MAGIC BODY CONTROL adjusts the suspension in advance to suit the situation. The "Comfort" and "Sport" modes are available for a driver-defined suspension setup. While AMG-specific elastokinematics on the 4-link front axle and multi-link independent rear suspension make for greater directness when a dynamic driving style is adopted, the AMG sports suspension based on MAGIC BODY CONTROL ensures the proverbial Mercedes long-distance comfort.

The S 65 AMG is equipped as standard with ESP® Dynamic Cornering Assist. Targeted braking intervention at the inside rear wheel results in defined cornering of the vehicle and ensures greater agility when taking corners at high speed. There is no irritating understeer when turning into corners.

AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with variable steering ratio

Electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with variable steering ratio is the perfect combination. This greatly enhances vehicle handling and agility while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. In "Comfort" suspension mode, the AMG speed-sensitive sports steering enhances comfort by providing more steering assistance. If the "Sport" suspension setting is selected, on the other hand, the driver feels a more sportily stiff level of steering assistance. The pre-programmed curves for power assistance enhance feedback from the road surface and steering precision.

AMG light-alloy wheels based on systematic lightweight construction

For the first time, the S 65 AMG is available exclusively with AMG forged light-alloy wheels. This design reduces weight while increasing strength. The result is lower unsprung masses, giving advantages in terms of handling and spring/damper element response. In the standard specification, the S 65 AMG is fitted with AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, ceramic, high-gloss polished – front: 8.5 x 20, rear: 9.5 x 20, tyre sizes 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20.

The multi-spoke light-alloy wheels can be considered a reinterpretation of the traditional spoked wheels from the 1930s – such as the ones used in the legendary 540 K Mercedes dream car.  The exclusive forged wheels on the S 65 AMG fascinate through their exceptional design: each of the 16 spokes is twisted, which causes the light-catching contours to radiate to the centre of the wheel hub. The effect: the wheel gives the impression of being even bigger. An additional high-grade detail is the screw-in, fully integrated wheel bolt cover of forged metal. Its shape is reminiscent of a centre lock as seen in motorsport. The design also allows an unobscured view of the AMG high-performance braking system.

The matchless visual superiority of the AMG forged wheels is due to an elaborate finishing process: initial polishing is followed by manual grinding of the light-alloy wheels. Two polishing stages using different grinding pellets ensure the desired deep sheen. Having been cleaned, the wheel undergoes final treatment, including sealing with clear varnish.

Alternatively, three other AMG forged wheels of the same size are optionally available. The 10-spoke design is available painted in titanium grey and polished or painted in matt black with a high-sheen rim flange – and likewise features a screw-in, fully integrated wheel bolt cover of forged metal. Alternatively, AMG forged wheels in a 5-twin-spoke design painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish and a black wheel bolt cover are available.

AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system as an option

Extremely short stopping distances and rapid deceleration are a given for any AMG high-performance car. And the S 65 AMG is no exception as it is equipped with a weight-optimised AMG high-performance composite braking system. An AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system is also available as an option. The more than 20 per cent lighter design ensures lower unsprung masses as well as enhanced driving dynamics, agility and ride comfort. In addition, the system has a longer service life, is more resistant to corrosion and has higher thermal stability. The AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system has front brake discs with a diameter of 420 millimetres and is recognisable by the "AMG Carbon Ceramic" logo on the specially painted brake callipers.

Design: Sensual clarity is combined with dynamism and exclusivity

The S 65 AMG shows off its exceptional status not just with regard to its technology, but also in terms of design. The sensual clarity typical of Mercedes-Benz, with its classic architecture and flowing profile, is combined with expressive elements typical of AMG. Luxurious and stately, powerful and exclusive, dynamic and prestigious – the S 65 AMG is a true eye-catcher with a self-assured presence. The large, upright and distinctly three-dimensional V12 radiator grille with its six twin louvres in high-gloss chrome underlines the car's special status. An exciting contrast to this is provided by the front apron with its three large cooling air intakes. The front section sports the AMG-typical, stylised "A" to emphasise the powerful exclusivity of the S 65 AMG.

High-gloss chrome – this design element is used to exclusive effect in the S 65 AMG. An eye-catching appearance, especially in combination with dark paint colours, is guaranteed by the grilles and flics (air deflectors) on the side air intakes. The three-dimensional front splitter in high-gloss chrome reduces lift on the front axle, while the gap above the front splitter ensures an effective flow of air to the separate engine oil cooler behind it. Also in high-gloss chrome are the inserts in the side sill panels and the trim of the high-gloss black rear diffuser insert. Customers who attach greater value to an understated look have the option of ordering the grilles and flics in high-gloss black.

Further exclusive design features include the "V12 BITURBO" lettering on the wings and the "S 65 AMG" model badge on the boot lid – both in new, modern typography. The AMG sports exhaust system with its two chrome-plated, separate twin tailpipes is a source of fascination both visually and acoustically.

Exciting equipment and appointments together with supreme quality in the interior

Exclusivity and luxury, combined with emphatically sporty design elements – the interior of the S 65 AMG fascinates through its exceptional feel, highest-grade materials and exquisite quality. The defining features are the upholstery in exclusive nappa leather with seat upholstery layout in an exclusive diamond-pattern design. The delineated perforations in the leather upholstery of the AMG sports seats are a special highlight: there are intentionally no perforations in the nappa leather wherever there is contrasting topstitching. The result is extraordinarily neat seams and an unrivalled impression of quality. Other features of the Exclusive package include the nappa leather roof liner, leather-lined dashboard, door centre panels in a diamond-pattern design, leather-clad roof grab handles, additional wood trim and AMG stainless-steel door sill panels illuminated in white. Customers ordering Exclusive nappa leather upholstery are able to choose between black, satin beige/espresso brown, nut brown/black, porcelain/black and crystal grey/seashell grey.

Exclusively developed AMG sports seats provide the guarantee of optimal long-distance comfort. Electric adjustment, memory function, seat heating and climate control are standard features. As an additional bonus, newly contoured seat cushions and backrests improve lateral support when cornering at speed. High-quality AMG badges on all four seat backrests are part of the standard specification, while embossed AMG emblems can be found on the front and – in the case of individual rear seats – also on the rear centre console. Further AMG emblems are included on the trim of the seat backs.

The two-spoke AMG sports steering wheel allows perfect vehicle control. The distinctly contoured steering wheel rim is covered with nappa leather, with perforated leather in the grip area. The insert is provided with characteristic AMG lettering. Aluminium shift paddles allow manual gear selection. To the right of the AMG sports steering wheel between the air vents is a high-quality analogue clock in an exclusive IWC design: this features three-dimensional, milled metal hands and genuine metal appliqués on the dial. High-grade chrome-plated door pins bearing the AMG logo round off the exquisite S 65 AMG interior.

AMG instrument cluster with animated round dials

The AMG instrument cluster with two animated round dials appears on the high-resolution TFT colour display. In addition to the AMG-specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, the typical AMG look includes the AMG logo in the speedometer with 225 mph scale (left) and the "V12 BITURBO" lettering in the rev counter (right). An animated AMG start-up display is shown on the right-hand display. The AMG main menu has a digital speedometer and a permanent gear display in the upper section. In transmission mode "M", the driver is also prompted to perform an upshift shortly before the rpm limit is reached. Two additional round dials provide information on the engine oil and transmission oil temperatures when the driver selects "Warm up" from the AMG menu. "Set Up" displays the transmission and suspension mode as well as the activated ESP® mode. Visual feedback is by means of an animated S 65 AMG on the TFT display between speedometer and rev counter.

Head-up display for enhanced comfort and safety

Two new innovations make their debut in the S 65 AMG: the head-up display and the touchpad. The head-up display projects important information such as vehicle speed, speed limits, navigation information, traffic signs and information from DISTRONIC PLUS onto the windscreen. The virtual colour display of size 21 x 7 centimetres appears to float on the bonnet at a distance of about two metres from the driver. This means that the head-up display is perfectly positioned in the driver's field of view. He or she is able to take in relevant information without having to look away from what is happening on the road ahead. In addition, the display shows the digital speed, engine speed and currently selected gear. In manual transmission mode, a coloured upshift bar and the possible gears for a manual gear change are projected onto the windscreen.

The brightness of the high-contrast display is automatically adjusted to suit the ambient brightness. The driver can also adjust the brightness to his or her preference. The position of the head-up display on the windscreen is height-adjustable and can be saved using the memory function.

Innovative touchpad for significantly easier operation

The new, innovative Mercedes-Benz touchpad makes it significantly easier to operate the radio, telephone and navigation system. Unlike in conventional systems, the touchpad makes it possible to operate all infotainment functions. The input area is approximately 6.5 x 4.5 centimetres in size and is integrated into the hand rest with a cover for the keypad. The touchpad can be controlled in the same way as a smartphone or tablet PC: it can recognise one- and two-finger gestures, swipe gestures and zoom gestures through intuitive widening and narrowing of the fingers. It is also possible to enter letters, numbers and special characters using handwriting. Every language available in COMAND Online is possible. The touchpad is designed with high-quality surfaces in high-gloss black and silver shadow.

The control surface of the new touchpad is integrated in the handrest of the central control unit, allowing safe and comfortable input. Behind the touch surface are three touch-sensitive keys which can be used to control important functions quickly and directly: back function, favourites menu, audio quick menu. The user receives clear haptic feedback when operating the touchpad control surface and the keys. Another highlight is the new hand resting recognition feature: a three-dimensional sensor signal is evaluated in order to detect whether the driver's hand is simply resting on the handrest or whether the driver is actually making an input with one or two fingers. This prevents incorrect inputs and improves the safety of operation. The driver can choose at any time which input method they prefer. As an alternative to the touchpad, the driver can also use the COMAND controller and LINGUATRONIC for the control of radio, telephone and navigation system.

The S 65 AMG is equipped as standard with head-up display and touchpad. Both innovations will soon be available also in other Mercedes models.

Also included in the standard equipment package of the S 65 AMG (selection):

• AIR-BALANCE package
• AMG full-pile footmats, with edging in nappa leather and AMG badge in solid metal
• AMG sports pedals of brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
• Ambient lighting
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• Burmester^® high-end 3D surround sound system
• Chauffeur package
• Exclusive package
• COMAND Online
• Driving Assistance package Plus
• KEYLESS-GO package
• Convenience telephony
• 10 loudspeakers with Frontbass
• LED Intelligent Light System
• MAGIC VISION CONTROL
• Media Interface
• Metallic paintwork
• Panoramic sliding sunroof
• Parking package
• PRE-SAFE^® PLUS
• Tyre pressure loss warning system
• Electrically adjustable rear seats
• Seat Comfort package incl. ENERGIZING massage function
• SPLITVIEW
• Sun Protection package
• Exclusive trim package

Numerous personalisation options are available from the AMG Performance Studio (selection):

• AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package
• AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system
• AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA, black
• AMG trim in carbon fibre/black piano lacquer
• Brake calipers, painted red

Additional optional extras (selection):

• 360° camera
• Business Telephony in the rear
• designo appointments packages
• Executive seat
• First-Class rear suite
• Individual Entertainment System in the rear
• Folding tables in the rear
• Warmth Comfort package

Intelligent Drive: new standards in safety

The S 65 AMG also sets new standards in terms of active and passive safety: what began with PRE-SAFE^®ten years ago and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS is now leading to a new dimension in driving. Comfort and safety have merged into one. Mercedes-Benz calls this "Intelligent Drive". New systems make the new S-Class even more comfortable and safer:

• Rear PRE-SAFE^® package
• Night View Assist Plus

World premiere in November, market launch in 2014

Like the previous model, the new S 65 AMG is available exclusively with a long wheelbase. The AMG V12 saloon will celebrate itsdouble world premiere simultaneously at the Los Angeles International Auto Show and at the Tokyo Motor Show (both: 20 November to 1 December 2013).

UK pricing and specification are still to be confirmed.

Mclaren reveals more details on track bred 12C GT Sprint

Following its global debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, McLaren GT has now confirmed the 12C GT Sprint will be priced at GBP £195,000*. The latest model from the GT racing arm of the McLaren Group has been developed and optimised exclusively for the race track.

The 12C GT Sprint has been designed and built by McLaren GT, in close consultation with the team at McLaren Automotive, and retains many of the unique systems from the 12C road car, on which it is based. Groundbreaking technologies and systems have been honed, including Brake Steer and the active McLaren Airbrake, while a recalibrated Proactive Chassis Control (PCC) system helps deliver a truly bespoke GT racing experience, which can be set to individual driver preference.

Power comes from the highly-efficient M838T 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 powerplant found in the 12C and 12C Spider, and generates 625PS, while the familiar seven speed twin clutch gearbox from the 12C is also retained. Optimised oil and cooling systems are unique to the track-focused racer.

The 12C GT Sprint is built around the 12C’s 75kg carbon fibre MonoCell chassis, but any unnecessary systems or creature comforts have been removed to keep weight to a minimum. The car features a number of components carried over from the successful 12C GT3 race car, including the FIA-approved safety roll cage, central cooling radiator and digital dash display.

Styling upgrades on the 12C GT Sprint follow the McLaren mantra of ‘form following function’, with each enhancement designed to optimise performance. Stability and dynamics are further enhanced through a drop in ride height of 40mm, while a more aggressive front bumper, GT3-inspired bonnet with radiator exit ducts and front wing louvres improve downforce and give a purposeful look. The highly effective track-focused braking system features GT race specification brake discs, which sit behind centre-locking 19-inch wheels, shod with Pirelli competition tyres. As with the 12C GT3, an on-board air jacking system is fitted to aid tyre changes.

Inside the cockpit, a fully adjustable HANS-approved, lightweight composite racing seat fitted with full six-point harness provides the optimum driving position, while an air-conditioning system is retained offering added comfort. An integrated fire extinguisher system is also installed.

Throughout the development programme, McLaren GT has worked with a strong pool of resource to develop and optimise the set up of the 12C GT Sprint. This has seen McLaren GT works drivers Rob Bell and Adam Carroll, McLaren Racing Young Driver Stoffel Vandoorne and McLaren Automotive chief test driver Chris Goodwin spending time in the cockpit, and covering in excess of 5,000 track kilometers at circuits across Europe and the Middle East, as well as extensive simulator work.

Commenting on the 12C GT Sprint programme, Chris Goodwin explained: ‘The 12C GT Sprint has been designed as a true track-focused racer, offering increased levels of downforce, grip and durable track performance. Retaining all of the innovative technology and characteristics of the 12C road car such as active aero, Brake Steer and the innovative PCC suspension system, dynamically, the 12C GT Sprint takes things to a new level with the addition of many race track specific features.

‘The 12C road car has universally acclaimed levels of drivability and cornering performance to compliment its phenomenal levels of power and torque. As a driver this potent combination just inspires confidence all the way round a lap and in the 12C GT Sprint, that lap is now considerably faster!’

Andrew Kirkaldy, Managing Director at McLaren GT added: ‘The 12C GT Sprint offers a true insight into GT car levels of performance, in terms of downforce and grip. The 12C is one of the most accomplished high performance sportscars ever built, and the enhancements featured on the 12C GT Sprint build on, and optimise, these abilities to create one of the most usable track cars available, with levels of performance that are truly and easily accessible.’

A range of options and packages are available through McLaren GT, each of which is designed to offer even greater levels of performance and individuality, with improved levels of downforce and further reduction in weight.  Upgrades include a bespoke carbon fibre rear wing and front splitter, and a lightweight polycarbonate windscreen. The 12C GT Sprint is presented as standard in historic McLaren Orange, but can be specified in any bespoke colour, on request.

The 12C GT Sprint is available from all official McLaren retailers worldwide or direct from McLaren GT.  Visit cars.mclaren.com to locate your nearest retailer.