McLaren 570S Spider 2017: The Ultimate Open-Top Supercar Review

The 2017 McLaren 570S Spider elevates the brand’s Sports Series to new heights by blending ferocious performance with the exhilaration of open-top driving. Powered by a mid-mounted twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8 engine producing 562 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, this convertible supercar delivers acceleration that pins occupants to their seats while maintaining remarkable composure on winding roads. Unlike many drop-tops that sacrifice dynamics for roofless freedom, the Spider adds just 46 kg over the coupe, ensuring it retains the core thrills that define McLaren engineering.

Powertrain Mastery: Engine and Transmission Excellence

At the heart of the 570S Spider lies McLaren’s M838T 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8, a flat-plane crank powerhouse derived from racing heritage that revs with Formula 1-like intensity. This engine propels the car from 0-60 mph in approximately 3.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 204 mph with the roof up, or 196 mph roof-down. The seamless seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission shifts with lightning precision, whether in Normal, Sport, or Track modes, making every drive addictive.

Owners and reviewers praise the engine’s character: a symphonic howl under hard acceleration that transforms into a visceral roar with optional sports exhausts. Torque delivery is broad and immediate, aided by twin turbos that minimize lag, allowing the Spider to surge forward effortlessly from low revs. In real-world testing, it outpaces rivals in straight-line brutality while the lightweight carbon-fiber and aluminum MonoCell II chassis keeps weight under control at around 3,460 lbs for the Spider.

Chassis Dynamics: Precision Handling Redefined

McLaren’s proactive chassis control system, featuring adaptive dampers and Brake Steer technology, makes the 570S Spider feel telepathic on the road. The steering is heavily weighted yet linear, with no play at the straight-ahead position, providing unmatched feedback for carving apexes. Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires on 19-inch front and 20-inch rear forged wheels grip ferociously, enabling cornering speeds that defy physics, while carbon-ceramic brakes haul the car down with progressive feel.

In Track mode, the chassis tenses for razor-sharp responses without becoming twitchy, allowing drivers to flow through corners with confidence. The Spider’s rear-biased all-wheel steering (on higher modes) enhances agility, making it pivot precisely during high-speed changes of direction. Compared to the coupe, the convertible version introduces a slightly taller rear spoiler for added downforce, compensating for the open-top aerodynamics without altering the car’s balance.

This table highlights the Spider’s negligible performance trade-offs.

Convertible Innovation: Roof and Practical Touches

The standout feature is the power-retractable hardtop, which folds away in just 15 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph, stowing neatly behind the cabin without encroaching on the 5.3 cubic feet of luggage space. With the roof up, a lowerable rear window amplifies engine drama, and the hidden stowage doubles as extra storage. This design minimizes wind buffeting, even at triple-digit speeds, making long cruises enjoyable.

• Roof Operation: 15-second deploy/retract; operable up to 30 mph.
• Wind Management: Optional wind deflector keeps cabin serene.
• Luggage: Front trunk plus roof stowage area when closed.

These elements position the Spider as a more versatile supercar, ideal for coastal drives or sunset blasts.

Interior Refinement and Driver Focus

The cabin wraps driver and passenger in a purposeful cockpit, with Alcantara and carbon-fiber accents fostering an intimate connection. The driving position is near-perfect, with adjustable seats and pedals ensuring comfort for varied builds. However, the 7-inch touchscreen interface feels dated—small and less intuitive than rivals’ systems—with folding screens for climate and audio controls.

Cabin noise is more pronounced than in grand tourers like the Bentley Continental GT, but the optional sports exhaust lets owners tune the drama. Visibility is aided by dihedral doors and a transparent engine cover, revealing the V8’s artistry. Utility scores lower due to limited storage, but it’s sufficient for weekend escapes.

Everyday Usability: Surprisingly Livable Supercar

Despite its track credentials, the 570S Spider excels as a daily driver. Ride quality in Normal mode absorbs bumps with poise, thanks to the sophisticated suspension, making it more approachable than stiffer exotics. Fuel economy hovers around 16-22 mpg combined, respectable for its output, while the seven-speed gearbox enables relaxed cruising.

It’s less practical for long trips—no back seats, modest cargo—but infinite headroom with the top down transforms commutes into events. The Track Pack option shaves 25 kg and adds grip without harshening compliance. Overall, it’s McLaren’s most owner-friendly model yet.

Rivals Comparison: Standing Out in the Supercar Arena

The 570S Spider competes with the Ferrari 488 Spider, Lamborghini Huracán Spyder, and Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet. It undercuts the Ferrari on price (starting around $215,000) while matching acceleration and exceeding in handling purity.

The McLaren shines in driver engagement and accessibility.

Ownership Costs and Verdict

Priced from $215,000, plus options like carbon packs pushing $250,000+, maintenance reflects supercar realities with carbon-ceramic brakes lasting longer than steel rivals. Reliability benefits from McLaren’s racing pedigree, though tire wear is rapid. The verdict: a thrilling, no-compromise convertible that prioritizes raw excitement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the McLaren 570S Spider slower than the coupe?

No, 0-60 mph remains 3.1 seconds; only 0-124 mph is 0.1 seconds behind due to slight weight gain.

How quick is the roof operation?

It retracts or deploys in 15 seconds, even at low speeds.

What’s the fuel economy?

Expect 16 city/22 highway mpg.

Does it have back seats?

No, it’s a strict 2-seater with limited cargo.

Is it track-capable?

Absolutely; Track mode and options like the Track Pack enhance circuit prowess.