The same but different

McLaren 720S becomes 750S with a host of subtle upgrades to build upon the brilliance of our 2017 Car of the Year winner

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CONTRARY TO WHAT YOUR EYES MIGHT C be telling you, this is a new McLaren. It's the 750S to be precise, a model that replaces the 720S, has some 765LT bits in it, and will be the last new product in the company's Super Series line before an all-new supercar arrives in 2026 offering some level of electric propulsion.

Developed over a period of 18 months, with direct input from CEO Michael Leiters (the first McLaren he's been able to get his teeth into before its launch, the Artura already a long way down the road to embarrassing itself when he arrived), the 750S is described as a comprehensive facelift rather than an all-new car. Think of a 911 model stepping from Gen 1 to Gen 2 is how it was described to evo. With 30 per cent new parts, many unseen, it's a korma-level update rather than the full vindaloo.

The tried and tested twin-turbocharged M840T V8 continues to rely on burning high-octane petroleum and in this latest iteration benefits from a new triple-layer head gasket, the lighter pistons first installed in the 765LT's motor, revised boost pressure and an additional high-flow fuel pump. It's all controlled by a new ECU map, resulting in 740bhp and 590lb ft of torque, increases of 30bhp and 22lb ft respectively over the 720S.