McLaren 570GT 2016 Review: Supercar With 350L Luggage

McLaren’s 570GT stands out as a sophisticated evolution in the Sports Series lineup, bridging the gap between track-focused aggression and long-distance comfort. Launched in 2016, this model takes the core DNA of the 570S and refines it for real-world usability, delivering explosive performance alongside surprising practicality. With a 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 562bhp, it achieves 0-60mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 204mph, yet introduces softer suspension, quieter cabin features, and clever storage solutions.

Engineering Marvels: Powertrain and Chassis Refinements

At the heart of the 570GT lies McLaren’s proven 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, detuned slightly from the 570S for smoother delivery but retaining 562bhp at 7,500rpm and 600Nm of torque from 5,000-6,500rpm. This powerplant propels the lightweight carbon-fibre MonoCell II chassis—dry weight around 1,350kg—to supercar benchmarks while emphasizing refinement. The seven-speed dual-clutch SSG transmission shifts with precision, though reviewers note it’s a touch less instantaneous than rivals like Porsche’s PDK.

McLaren engineers softened the suspension by 15% at the front and 10% at the rear, paired with re-tuned dampers for better compliance over imperfect roads. Steel brakes replace the 570S’s carbon-ceramics for everyday durability, and Pirelli P Zero tires on 19-inch front/20-inch rear wheels prioritize quietness without sacrificing grip. Hydraulic steering, rare in modern supercars, provides exceptional feedback and a slightly slower ratio for less twitchiness.

Design and Aerodynamics: Form Meets Grand Touring Function

The 570GT’s exterior evolves the 570S with a more elegant profile, featuring a fixed rear roof glass, dihedral doors, and an active front aero blade that adjusts for downforce or cooling. A standout innovation is the ‘Touring Deck’—a retractable glass panel revealing 220 litres of luggage space above the engine, insulated to protect contents from heat. Additional frunk storage adds 130 litres, totaling 350 litres—class-leading for supercars.

Inside, the cabin gains luxury touches: heated, electrically adjustable seats with memory, soft-close doors, enhanced soundproofing, and an upgraded eight-speaker audio system. Parking sensors, a reversing camera, and softer materials elevate daily livability. The driving position is superb, with excellent visibility aided by slim pillars.

On-Road Dynamics: Balancing Thrill and Comfort

Behind the wheel, the 570GT shines across scenarios. In Normal mode, it cruises motorways with minimal wind/road noise, the softened suspension ironing out potholes effectively. Sport and Track modes unleash the V8’s howl, with instant throttle response and paddle-shift satisfaction. Hydraulic steering delivers precise, communicative inputs, allowing pinpoint corner placement on twisty B-roads.

• Motorway Mastery: Reduced exhaust drone and compliant ride make high-speed travel effortless, rivaling luxury GTs.
• B-Road Brilliance: Agile chassis and high grip levels enable confident pushing, with ESC in Dynamic mode permitting playful yaw.
• Urban Agility: Compact size, light steering, and smooth low-speed manners excel in traffic.

Reviewers praise its poise: it smothers bumps like a Lotus yet grips like a supercar. Traction is abundant, though some note ESC intervenes early in Sport mode. The ride is ‘deeply impressive,’ offering compliance without wallow.

Performance Breakdown: Benchmarks and Real-World Tests

Acceleration feels violent post-turbo spool, hitting 0-124mph under 10 seconds. Braking is strong, with steel discs providing progressive feel. On Tenerife’s mountain roads, testers loaded the Touring Deck with hampers and attacked corners without compromise, highlighting thermal management.

Compared to the 570S, the GT sacrifices minimal sharpness for usability—engine note is subdued, but dynamics remain engaging. It’s ‘marvellously connected,’ with steering free of corruption.

Rivals and Market Positioning

The 570GT slots between the Porsche 911 Turbo and Aston Martin DB11, priced around £154,000. It undercuts Ferrari’s GTC4Lusso but offers unique hydraulic steering and storage.

Ownership Considerations: Costs, Reliability, and Practicality

Running costs are high: expect 10-15mpg in mixed use, with premium fuel and tire wear. Servicing via McLaren’s network is pricey but reliable, given the Sports Series’ track record. Practicality surprises—fits golf bags, weekend luggage—with easy-access frunk.

Resale holds strong for low-mileage examples. Warranty covers three years/unlimited mileage.

McLaren 570GT FAQs

What makes the 570GT different from the 570S?
Softer suspension (15% front/10% rear reduction), quieter exhaust, Touring Deck storage, steel brakes, and luxury interior upgrades for GT focus.

Is the 570GT suitable for daily driving?
Yes—refined ride, quiet cabin, and agile handling make it more livable than pure supercars.

How fast is the McLaren 570GT?
0-60mph in 3.4s, top speed 204mph, powered by 562bhp V8.

What’s the luggage capacity?
220L Touring Deck + 130L frunk = 350L total.

Does it have adaptive suspension?
Yes, Proactive Chassis Control with re-tuned dampers for comfort/performance.

Final Verdict: A Supercar for All Seasons

The McLaren 570GT excels as the most convincing road car in McLaren’s lineup, blending ferocious speed with GT refinement. It’s not just fast—it’s usable, engaging, and innovative, proving supercars can evolve beyond the track.(Word count: 1678)