The 2025 McLaren Artura Spider impresses with its blend of electrified performance, open-top thrills, and surprising daily usability. While it offers exhilarating performance and advanced technology, its high price point may limit its appeal to a select few.
8.5/10
CarExplore Overall Comparative Score
This score reflects the aggregated ratings from CarsGuide (8.5/10) and Drive (8.5/10).
Quick Facts
- Price: $525,010 (plus on-road costs)
- Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 plug-in hybrid
- Power/Torque: 515kW/720Nm (combined)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- 0-100km/h: 3.0 seconds
- Electric Range: 33km
Key Specifications
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Engine | 3.0L twin-turbo V6 PHEV |
Power | 515kW (combined) |
Torque | 720Nm (combined) |
Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
Drive Type | Rear-wheel drive |
0-100km/h | 3.0 seconds |
0-200km/h | 8.4 seconds |
0-300km/h | 21.6 seconds |
Electric Range | 33km |
Fuel Consumption (Claimed) | 4.8L/100km |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impressive performance and acceleration
- Comfortable and usable for daily driving
- Advanced plug-in hybrid technology
- Quick-folding hardtop (11 seconds, up to 50km/h)
- Improved exhaust sound
- Enhanced suspension and braking
Cons:
- Very high price point
- Limited practicality and storage space
- Some cheap interior materials
- Low-mounted central screen
- Likely higher real-world fuel consumption
Expert Review Summaries
CarsGuide
Rating: 8.5/10
- Pros: Dual personality (comfortable cruiser and track monster), impressive performance, improved exhaust note
- Cons: High price, limited practicality, some ergonomic issues
Summary: "McLaren's most liveable offering proves hybrid heroes have a place in the supercar stable of tomorrow. Angry and affable in near-equal measure, it is utterly docile during the week and completely bonkers on the weekend." Read the full review
Drive
Rating: 8.5/10
- Pros: Exhilarating performance, advanced technology, open-top thrills
- Cons: High price, limited practicality
Summary: "The McLaren Artura Spider successfully combines electrified performance with open-top driving pleasure, offering a glimpse into the future of supercars." Read the full review
CarExplore's Take on the 2025 McLaren Artura Spider
The McLaren Artura Spider represents a significant step forward in the evolution of supercars, successfully integrating plug-in hybrid technology without sacrificing the thrills expected from a McLaren. Its ability to switch between a comfortable daily driver and a track-focused monster is particularly impressive.
Performance is a standout feature, with the electric motor filling in any gaps in power delivery from the twin-turbo V6, resulting in seamless and explosive acceleration. The improved exhaust note addresses criticisms of the coupe, delivering a more engaging auditory experience, especially with the top down.
The retractable hardtop adds versatility without significantly compromising the car's dynamics, thanks to McLaren's focus on weight reduction and chassis stiffness. The ability to operate the roof at speeds up to 50km/h is a practical touch.
Interior quality is generally high, though some reviewers noted the presence of cheaper materials in certain areas. The low-mounted central screen may be an ergonomic issue for some drivers.
While the claimed fuel consumption of 4.8L/100km is impressive, real-world figures are likely to be significantly higher, especially when exploiting the car's performance potential.
Ideal For: Supercar enthusiasts who want the latest in hybrid technology combined with open-top thrills, and who can afford the hefty price tag.
Consider Alternatives If: You need more practicality, want a pure electric supercar experience, or are looking for a more affordable entry into the high-performance convertible market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Spider's performance compare to the Artura coupe?
A: The Spider matches the coupe's performance figures, despite the additional weight of the folding roof mechanism.
What is the charging time for the Artura Spider's battery?
A: It takes about 2.5 hours to charge the 7.4kWh battery from 0 to 80 percent.
Does the convertible top affect the car's aerodynamics?
A: McLaren has designed the Spider to maintain the coupe's aerodynamic efficiency, with minimal impact when the roof is lowered.
What is the warranty coverage for the McLaren Artura Spider?
A: It comes with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, with the battery covered for six years or 75,000km.
Are there any special driving modes for the hybrid system?
A: Yes, the Artura Spider features pre-configured 'Electric', 'Comfort', 'Sport', and 'Track' modes to optimize the hybrid powertrain for different driving scenarios.