New McLaren 570S spied
We've got the coupe, we know there will be a Spider ... so what's this one then?
While we're not suggesting test mules are ever released into the real world exclusively to garner publicity, it's certainly true there's a keen awareness among manufacturers that anything they do away from the sort of ultra top secret test locations guarded by razor wire is likely to be photographed and recorded and analysed in stories like this one. Or, in other words, to receive heaps of the sort of free publicity that tells potential buyers to expect a new model ahead of your first pound of marketing spend.
While the Sports Series is practically out on general release, there's something a bit special about this disguised version, obvious in the full length rear 'hatch' rather than buttressed rear window. In the absence of any hard facts from Woking this is where the speculation, and the fun, begins.
McLaren is already on record as saying there will be three versions of the Sports Series; we've driven the Coupe and a Spider is an obvious and nailed-on addition to the model plan, and one insiders have told us will be the last version launched. Leading us to conclude that this is the other one.
But what is it? A performance LT variant as the Sports Series equivalent to the 675LT is the obvious conclusion, with a redesigned-for-aero back end. Our spy photographer also reckons it might be a two-plus-two, which is possible but seems unlikely when you consider how close the rear of the Sports Series's MonoCell II tub is to the front seats; finding that much extra space would require more structural engineering than one of those Chelsea underground extensions.
But the raised bump at the bottom of the rear 'screen' is the interesting bit, suggesting an all-new panel that stops some way short of the back of the car. Leading us to believe that this is the more practical Sports Series word has it will be the third pillar of the range, one that we've been told will feature a luggage compartment behind the engine. And which may, or may not, also carry LT badging.
Or, of course, it could be an elaborate practical joke by McLaren's prototype department. "Let's put this one out and see what people say." Because the only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about.
Photos: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
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