Car Show

McLaren Revives Manual Transmission with New Supercar Concept

At Monterey Car Week, McLaren is making headlines with the introduction of a new supercar concept that reintroduces a feature absent from its lineup for over three decades: a manual transmission. This exciting reveal highlights a significant shift towards a more engaging and driver-centric experience, contrasting with the increasingly automated nature of modern high-performance vehicles.

The newly unveiled McLaren McL 6GT concept draws its essence from Bruce McLaren's original M6GT project, an ambitious road car vision that never reached full production. While the initial M6GT remained a concept, McLaren has confirmed that the new McL 6GT is slated for a production launch in 2028. This upcoming model will notably feature a manual gearbox, channeling power to the rear wheels, a design choice reminiscent of the legendary McLaren F1 from 1992. Under the hood, the concept is confirmed to house a powerful V8 internal-combustion engine, paired with an advanced lightweight carbon-fiber monocoque chassis and bodywork, blending high performance with structural integrity. Its exterior styling is a contemporary homage to the M6GT, featuring a low, wide stance, an extended roofline, and a distinctive Kammback rear. The interior echoes this blend of past and present, integrating modern digital displays with classic tactile controls and knurled aluminum switchgear, alongside a specially designed manual gear lever for enhanced mechanical feedback. Subtle nods to McLaren's heritage are visible throughout, including a graphic of Bruce McLaren's original M6GT license plate, his signature in the engine bay, and the iconic Speedy Kiwi logo etched onto the fuel filler cap and gearstick, adding layers of historical significance to this forward-looking design.

The McL 6GT concept is more than just a new model; it represents McLaren's commitment to prioritizing the visceral thrill of mechanical driving. It incorporates hydraulic steering, eschewing purely electronic systems, to deliver a more connected road feel. While specific pricing details remain under wraps, this ultra-exclusive model is expected to command a price tag exceeding one million dollars, positioning it above McLaren's existing sports and supercar offerings. The return of the manual McLaren is a celebratory moment for automotive enthusiasts who cherish a hands-on driving experience, promising a future where cutting-edge performance meets the timeless joy of traditional engagement.

This innovative concept from McLaren not only celebrates its rich heritage but also boldly paves the way for a future where technological advancement and the pure joy of driving coexist. It reminds us that progress does not always mean leaving the past behind, but rather, thoughtfully integrating cherished elements to create an even more fulfilling experience. By re-embracing the manual transmission and emphasizing tactile feedback, McLaren is fostering a deeper connection between driver and machine, proving that true automotive passion lies in the interaction, not just the destination.

Ford Unveils High-Performance Dark Horse SC Convertible

Ford has recently unveiled its highly anticipated Mustang Dark Horse SC Convertible, reintroducing a high-performance soft-top model after a 13-year hiatus. This new variant combines exhilarating power with an open-air driving experience, distinguishing itself as a grand touring machine rather than a track-focused beast.

Beneath the hood, the Dark Horse SC Convertible houses the formidable supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine, identical to its coupe counterpart. This powerhouse generates an impressive 795 horsepower and 660 pound-feet of torque, channeled to the rear wheels via a sophisticated seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. While the powertrain remains consistent, the convertible sets itself apart with a tailored suspension setup.

Chief engineer Arie Groeneveld emphasized that the convertible's suspension, featuring MagneRide dampers and unique springs and sway bars, was specifically engineered for a premium grand touring experience. This contrasts with the coupe's emphasis on lap times, offering a more refined and comfortable ride for top-down cruising. The vehicle's structure benefits from a magnesium tower-to-tower brace, enhancing rigidity on the GT convertible platform.

Subtle yet significant modifications have been made to the convertible's aerodynamics to account for its soft-top design. Engineers meticulously extended the trailing edge of the hood vent's fin and designed unique rear wing stanchions that maintain the coupe's profile and attack angle, albeit without gurney flaps. Enthusiasts will also appreciate the introduction of new exterior color choices, brake caliper finishes, and interior details, including the striking Precision Purple, which exhibits a captivating color-shift effect.

Potential buyers can anticipate pricing announcements later this year, with order books opening in the autumn. Deliveries of this exciting new model are slated to commence next spring. Given the 2026 Dark Horse SC coupe's starting price of $108,085 (including destination charges), the convertible variant is expected to carry a slightly higher premium, offering a compelling option for those seeking a blend of raw power and open-air luxury.

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Lanzante Unveils 850-HP McLaren F1 Homage at Monterey Car Week

Lanzante has introduced its new 95-59 model, a stunning homage to the legendary McLaren F1, at Monterey Car Week. This vehicle, built upon the foundation of a McLaren 750S, represents a fusion of historical racing glory and contemporary high-performance engineering. With a central driving position and two rear passenger seats, it faithfully recreates the iconic three-seat layout of the original F1, while delivering a significant power boost and advanced aerodynamic enhancements.

The Lanzante 95-59 first garnered attention with its global debut as a production-intent styling concept at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Following its initial reveal in the UK, the three-seat marvel has been showcased at various prestigious automotive events across North America, continuing its journey from a prototype to a highly exclusive production model. The vehicle's development underscores Lanzante's dedication to channeling its 1995 Le Mans victory into a modern, road-legal supercar, offering a unique blend of heritage and cutting-edge performance.

At its core, the 95-59 draws inspiration from Lanzante's historic 1995 Le Mans win with the No. 59 McLaren F1 GTR. While it begins with the chassis of a McLaren 750S, the bespoke bodywork, interior arrangement, and sophisticated aerodynamic details transcend a typical tuner modification, elevating it to the realm of a meticulously coachbuilt machine. The interior boasts a carbon-fiber structure, accented with luxurious materials and purple highlights across the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel, emphasizing its custom craftsmanship rather than being a mere factory upgrade.

Under the hood, the Lanzante 95-59 retains the McLaren 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, but with substantial upgrades by Lanzante, increasing its output from the 740 horsepower of the donor 750S to an impressive 850 horsepower. This immense power is managed by a seven-speed paddle-shift transmission. Production of this exclusive model is limited to just 59 units, directly referencing the racing number of the Le Mans-winning F1 GTR. This limited run positions the 95-59 among other highly anticipated modern F1 tributes, such as Gordon Murray’s forthcoming supercar and Lanzante’s own P1 GT homage.

A notable feature of the 95-59 is its optional high-downforce aero package, which includes a prominent fixed rear wing and an integrated roof air intake. This design choice deliberately mirrors the enhanced aerodynamic configuration offered for the original F1 models. The result is a striking silhouette that evokes the aggressive appearance of an endurance racer, distinctly differentiating it from a standard 750S. This aerodynamic focus, combined with a reported starting price of approximately £1,020,000 (around $1.3 million USD before taxes), confirms that the 95-59 is targeted at discerning collectors seeking a tangible, contemporary continuation of the McLaren F1 legacy, prioritizing functional aerodynamics and coachbuilt artistry over subtle stylistic nods.

This car is poised to captivate collectors who desire a hands-on extension of the McLaren F1 narrative, with Lanzante emphasizing custom design and functional aerodynamics beyond a mere cosmetic package. The prototype's ambitious promise remains to be fully realized in its production form, both on the road and on the track.

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