McLaren has launched the latest member of its Super Series range. The 720S Spider – which is available to order now – features a carbon fibre Retractable Hard Top that can be electrically raised or lowered in just 11 seconds.

Crucially, the Monocage II-S carbon fibre body structure hasn’t required any additional strengthening in the transition from Coupé to Spider. The convertible car’s weight penalty is therefore a mere 49 kilogrammes (108 lbs).

Other elements unique to the Spider include glazed flying buttresses for better all-round visibility, an opening back window and a set of bespoke 19” front / 20” rear forged alloy wheels that can be shod with either Pirelli P Zero or P Zero Corsa tyres. Furthermore, the behaviour of the recalibrated active rear spoiler depends on the RHT’s position.

Thanks to the familiar 710 bhp (537 kW / 720 PS) 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, pace certainly isn’t lacking. Indeed, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 2.9 seconds equals the Coupé’s, while 202 mph (325 km/h) is possible with the roof down. That figure increases to 212 mph (341 km/h) when everything’s closed.

The 720S Spider is being offered in standard, Luxury and Performance guises. UK prices start at £237,000 and deliveries are due to begin in March 2019.



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