McLaren Artura, A Thoroughly New Hybrid Supercar

This is the McLaren Artura, and this is the first time McLaren has returned to the hybrid supercar game since the P1.  And although it looks an awful lot like McLaren's Sports Series supercars, it's apparently an all-new car underneath.The Artura is based on a new carbon fiber tub, as well as many new chassis components. The rear suspension is all-new, too. But the highlight is that hybrid twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. It's a 120-degree-angle engine with the turbos nestled in the V and features a dry-sump oil system and 8,500-rpm redline. It also happens to be 110 pounds lighter than McLaren's usual V8s.Alone, it makes 577 horsepower and 431 pound-feet (585 Nm) of torque. But it's also paired to an electric motor that makes 94 horsepower and 166 pound-feet (225 Nm). Together they make 671 horsepower and 531 pound-feet (720 Nm) of torque.The motor also helps to fill in for the lack of torque at low rpm and provides better throttle response. With the 7.4-kWh battery, the motor can further provide gas-free driving for up to 19 miles (30 Km).The engine and motor are paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It's unique in that it has no reverse gear since the electric motor simply spins the other way for reverse. This makes the transmission smaller and lighter. Power goes solely to the rear wheels, and between them is an electronically controlled mechanical limited-slip differential, a first for McLaren.McLaren is quite proud of the fact that, despite the Artura including an electric motor and battery pack, the car weighs in at a respectable 3,305 pounds (1500 Kg). With the relatively lightweight and powerful engine, the car is capable of reaching 60 mph (100 kph) in 3 seconds on the way to a top speed of 205 mph (330 kph).Inside, the Artura features a rather organic design, particularly for the instrument screen. That screen is attached to the steering column, so it moves and adjusts with the steering wheel. To the right is an 8-inch infotainment screen with an interesting watch crown-like control dial.The interior is packed with modern amenities such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, automatic high-beam headlights, and even over-the-air updates.The Artura goes on sale in the third quarter of this year. The base price is $225,000. It will be available in four trims: the base model, Performance, TechLux, and Vision.