2018: The Promise. CEO Mike Flewitt McLaren’s former CEO boldly declared that the company would never build an SUV, stating, ‘There’s more than enough SUVs in the world.’
2024: A New Direction. Fast forward six years, and McLaren’s new CEO, Michael Leiters, hints at a significant shift.
McLaren is now exploring the possibility of a hybrid SUV.
Well, a non-SUV, a ‘Shared Performance Vehicle.’ Similar nomenclature as Ferrari’s ‘non-SUV’, Purosangue.
Leiters describes the future model with SUV-like characteristics, potentially using a plug-in hybrid powertrain, contrary to rumours.
Similar to rivals, the likes of the Lamborghini Urus and Ferrari Purosangue.
McLaren may partner with another car maker, integrating their hybrid system into an existing SUV platform.
Calling on Leiters’ experience from Porsche and Ferrari.
‘This vehicle is designed to offer the McLaren performance experience to more people’.
Is this a larger market share or four seats?
It is expected to be priced around £303,000, pricing itself against the Ferrari Purosangue and Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
Even if plans are confirmed soon, the SUV would still be several years away from production.
Is this foray into the SUV market part of McLaren’s broader strategy to address financial challenges and expand its market presence?
‘Finally, a supercar in which you can fit the whole family and their egos.’
McLaren’s potential hybrid SUV represents a bold new chapter for the brand, blending luxury, performance, and practicality in a way that could redefine its place in the automotive world.
‘Allowing you to have a mid-life crisis and still haul the kids around’
