What's the news?

We weren't supposed to tell you about McLaren's new supercar until Wednesday (Feb 19), but it's increasingly difficult for the car makers to prevent news from slipping out early so here we are. And who wouldn't want to talk about the new car? It's called the 650S, set to sit above the McLaren 12C, but still considerably lower down the price scale than the (sold out) McLaren P1.

Exterior

McLaren isn't shying away from the fact that the 650S is effectively an enhanced 12C, with little at the rear changed for instance. The front end is all-new however, and not only does it mimic the appearance of the McLaren P1, it also significantly increases downforce - by as much as 40 per cent at 150mph. The 'door blades' contribute to the aerodynamic performance too, while restyled side intakes help cool the more powerful engine. McLaren has also tweaked the active aerodynamics. The 'Airbrake' feature deploys whenever extra downforce is considered desirable (not just under braking), while the rear wing flattens at high speed in a straight line.

From launch the McLaren 650S will be offered in two-door coupé or open-top Spider guises, made possible, says McLaren, by the super-stiff carbon fibre structure underneath.

Interior

McLaren is keen to stress that, while the 650S is a performance model (set to challenge the likes of the new Ferrari 458 Speciale), it is not a stripped-out track racer. Inside, full Alcantara trim is standard, though there are plenty of luxurious leather options, and many parts can be specified in carbon fibre. Indeed, those that expect to bring their 650S on track regularly would do well to go for the carbon fibre racing seats.

The equipment count is generous too, including satnav, DAB radio and a rear parking camera. McLaren reckons the 650S actually represents a saving over an equally specified 12C.

Mechanicals

Talking to McLaren's engineers at a private unveiling of the 650S in London, we were surprised to learn just how much had been changed - over the 12C. First up, the 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine now produces up to 650hp and 678Nm of torque, enabling a 0-62mph time of 3.0 seconds. McLaren also says that 0-125mph takes just 8.4 seconds and the top speed is 207mph. Not that any buyers will care, but the 650S emits 275g/km and returns 24.2mpg on the combined cycle.

McLaren has worked hard on the control of the engine and the seven-speed SSG dual-clutch gearbox. In a bid to give the engine note more personality, a 'cylinder cut' takes place during upshifts under part-throttle, which apparently gives a unique sound. On top of that it makes use of 'inertia push' during full-throttle upshifts, which is designed to eliminate any gap in acceleration. The transmission itself is claimed to be smoother, yet faster shifting.

Chassis tweaks include new damper mounts, plus firmer springs and dampers. There are four modes as before (Winter, Normal, Sport and Track), though the highest setting is now considerably more hard-core.

Anything else?

The new McLaren 650S will cost from £195,000 for the coupé to £215,000 for the Spider, and personnel at the launch admitted there's room in the line-up for yet another supercar that costs in the region of £400,000. And of course there's an entry-level model due at the lower end in time too. McLaren will give the 650S its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show.