What's the news?
We earlier reported on proposed upgrades to the McLaren MP4-12C that came to light via a letter from McLaren to an owner of a Woking supercar that was posted on PistonHeads. McLaren has now confirmed the changes that will be carried out to existing and future models.
Exterior
McLaren has listened to its customers and changed the way you access the 12C; gone is the much maligned touch sensor system to be replaced with a simpler button on each door. The ability to unlatch each door using the 12C key fob will be retained.
A rain activation function has also been added to the auto lights. Other than that the only exterior change is a subtle revision to the McLaren badge.
Interior
The 12C's Intake Sound Generator (ISG) system, which controls the amount of engine intake sound heard in the cabin, is now programmable, meaning the driver can adjust the amount of engine noise heard in the cabin across the three (Normal, Sport and Track) powertrain modes. The climate control system will also be reworked with a new 'Auto Lo' function added that quietens the fans - allowing the engine note to be enjoyed unadulterated.
Mechanicals
The big news in this raft of upgrades relates to the 12C's 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8. Reprogrammed engine mapping will boost power from 600- to 625hp. Combined with a modification to the seven-speed SSG transmission, this makes for a higher top speed and quicker acceleration to both 124- and 186mph. The benchmark 0-62mph time remains unchanged at 3.1 seconds, as too do the 12C's emissions and fuel economy.
Anything else?
A range of extras has also been announced that will allow customers to build their ideal McLaren. The extensive list includes new paint finishes, more alloy wheel options and new levels of interior trim.
Paul Healy - 7 Jun 2012