When the covers came off the new McLaren Artura Spider in Hong Kong, the high-performance, dream-machine convertible’s presence was nothing short of a thrill that only supercars can ignite, especially from such a stellar marquee. While the familiar sculpted lines and signature styling cues of the Artura coupé are all present, the addition of the retractable hard-top roof and accompanying design elements lend the Spider a distinct colourful character that’s all its own.
As expected, this is no mere sun-seeking variant—the Spider was engineered from the ground up to deliver the same dynamic prowess as its fixed-roof counterpart, with the added exhilaration of open-air driving. No wonder it was a top contender for Robb Report’s Car of the Year.
McLaren Automotive CEO Michael Leiters affirms that “the new Artura is absolutely the complete next-generation supercar, whichever model you choose. And now, alongside the new Artura coupé, we have the Artura Spider, a new convertible that has all of these improvements and brings another dimension of open-air McLaren supercar exhilaration to our range.”
At the heart of the Artura’s performance is McLaren’s potent hybrid powertrain, which has been further refined and upgraded for the original Spider model. Its 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine now produces over 200 hp per litre for a total system output of 700 hp. Complementing the internal combustion engine is a compact axial-flux electric motor delivering an additional 95 hp and 166 lb-ft of instantaneous torque. It’s a sophisticated hybrid setup that catapults the Spider from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.0 seconds, 0 to 124 mph in 8.4 seconds, and on to a top speed of 205 mph—figures that are virtually indistinguishable from the coupé. Paddle-shifters actuate the recalibrated eight-speed dual-clutch transmission for even faster gear changes. For optimal control and stability, an efficient electronic limited-slip differential puts the power to the ground.
While the Artura Spider’s performance is not compromised, McLaren’s focus and integrity with weight reduction has ensured that the convertible model remains the lightest in its class. At a feathery 3,217 lbs in its lightest dry configuration, the Spider boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 480 hp per ton, zooming past its closest competitors by a healthy 80 lbs. McLaren’s Carbon Lightweight Architecture is what achieves this svelte curb weight, forming the strong and secure central monocoque. McLaren further pared weight by optimising the electrical architecture and compact hybrid components, including the 88-lb battery pack and 34-lb electric motor.
Complementing this potent performance is a suspension system that has been honed for exceptional responsiveness and control. McLaren’s Proactive Damping Control system, supplied by Official Intelligent Suspension Partner Monroe, has been revised with faster-acting control units that improve reaction times by up to a staggering 90 per cent. Drivers can choose between Comfort, Sport, and Track modes to suit their preferences and driving conditions.
Of course, the defining element of the Artura Spider is its electrically operated hard-top roof, which can be raised or lowered in just 11 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph. Drivers (and fans) have spoken about the satisfying click as the retractable roof covers the vehicle in inclement weather conditions, and the smooth operation of driving with the top down when the sun’s out. McLaren’s engineers have seamlessly integrated the roof mechanism into the Spider’s design, preserving the coupé’s signature silhouette and aerodynamic efficiency.
Inside the cabin, the driver-focused cockpit retains the coupé’s uncluttered, performance-oriented design. A button-free steering wheel comes with ergonomically positioned paddle shifters, while the digital driver’s display can be configured to prioritise only essential information. As exciting as the car is from the outside, inside, its comfort, luxury, and ease ensure total control in the driver’s seat, and includes wireless smartphone charging and advanced driver assistance systems.
For long drives—or when in traffic—McLaren’s latest infotainment system, MIS II, provides intuitive, smartphone-like functionality and connectivity, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. An available 12-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system should be music to the ears as it ensures the Artura Spider’s soundtrack is just as engaging as its performance.
McLaren’s new Artura Spider is priced from HK$4.28 million (around US$545,000) and the first customer deliveries are expected in early 2025. Prospective owners will have the opportunity to further personalise their cars through McLaren Special Operations, the bespoke division.
For those seeking the ultimate in open-air supercar thrills, the new McLaren Artura Spider represents a tantalising proposition. By seamlessly blending hypercar-rivalling performance with the palpable joy of driving a convertible, the Artura Spider elevates the driving experience to new heights. It’s a testament to McLaren’s‘s
All images courtesy of McLaren.
