McLaren 540C Coupe makes Shanghai global debut
McLaren is launching the second model of its new Sports Series range, with the new 540C Coupe making its global debut at the ongoing Shanghai Motor Show and available for order taking worldwide at a price of £126,000 (RM683k based on the latest exchange rate of RM5.42 to £1.00) before local taxes and duties, making it the entry model of McLaren’s range.
Of course, in the context of a McLaren, entry level here means access to 533hp at 7,500rpm and 540Nm from 3,500 to 6,500rpm from the mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8. Going astern via a seven-speed dual clutch transmission, the engine’s outputs help propel the 1,311kg 540C to 100kph from rest 3.5 seconds, with a further seven seconds needed to hit the double ton.
Maximum speed is quoted at 320kph, and the engine is equipped with auto stop/start technology enabling to achieve a rated fuel consumption of 11.1 l/100km in the European combined cycle.
Benefiting from McLaren’s extensive F1 experience, the 540C is underpinned by carbon fibre construction to form its chassis which is then clothed in aluminium body work. McLaren also claims to have given added emphasis to greater day-to-day usability, with thought given to ensure more convenient ingress and egress as well as increased occupant safety.
The increased focus on day-to-day driving carries on to the tuning of its suspension, which features all-round double wishbones, front and rear anti-roll bars as well as three-mode independent adaptive dampers with twin damper valves. Cornering is further aided by McLaren’s Brake Steer system that individually brakes the inner rear wheel on the turn enabling sharper directional changes.
Stagger-sized rim and tyres occupy the 540C’s four corners. The former can be specified in silver or stealth finish and they measure 19 inches up front and 20 inches behind. The wheels roll in Pirelli P Zero tyres, developed specifically for the McLaren Sports Series family and claimed to offer progressive grip levels with good ride comfort.
