McLaren’s marque GT model is entering its fourth year, yet the exotic sports car manufacturer, now fully owned by Bahrain’s Mumtalakat sovereign wealth fund, has opted for a mid-cycle refresh and a name change. Renamed the GTS, the updated coupe now boasts a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 626 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, an increase of 14 horses compared to the GT, thanks to a new tune for ignition timing and combustion phasing. In addition, McLaren has managed to cut 22 pounds from the GTS compared to the GT, primarily due to a recycled carbon fiber roof and a carbon fiber rear structure. The GTS maintains a 0-60 time of 3.1 seconds but is now able to reach 124 miles per hour 0.1 second sooner at 8.9 seconds, and it also offers optional titanium lug nuts that further decrease weight.
The focus of the updates is on increased precision and agility rather than outright speed. The GTS features new front intakes and taller side scoops, along with an array of optional cosmetic upgrades, including gloss carbon fiber accents, a Stealth Package that blacks out the badges and tints areas like the mirror caps and window surrounds, and more.
Furthermore, McLaren has recalibrated the steering of the GTS, with the aim of improving the already admirable handling. The standard brakes have been upgraded to carbon ceramic stoppers, and the front lift system has been enhanced to raise the nose 0.8 inch in half the time as in the GT, taking just four seconds instead of eight.
Inside, the GTS features a downsized digital gauge cluster, a seven-inch infotainment screen, and an optional 12-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The car is available in a range of new paint colors, including Ice White, Mantis Green, Lava Grey, and Tanzanite Blue, and offers various options for leather seats, contrast stitching, and heating.
While McLaren has not disclosed the price of the GTS, the 2023 GT started at just under $210,000, and reservations are now being accepted. With these impressive updates, the McLaren GTS is shaping up to be an even more compelling choice in the highly competitive exotic sports car market.