2027 is shaping up to be a landmark year for McLaren. Long associated with high-performance supercars, the Woking-based marque will broaden its lineup with two all-new models: a plug-in hybrid SUV and a four-door sedan.
Both cars are being engineered to keep McLaren’s unmistakable sporting DNA while allowing the brand to enter more profitable segments, such as it has happened with Lotus.
The new McLaren’s chapter
The shift follows a corporate reshuffle after McLaren came under the control of Abu Dhabi-based CYVN Holdings and entered a strategic partnership with British EV start-up Forseven. The alliance is intended to accelerate electrified development and merge complementary technical expertise. What was once unthinkable — a McLaren SUV — is now well into development.
True to tradition, McLaren will rely heavily on advanced materials such as carbon fibre and titanium to keep mass low despite larger vehicle dimensions. Aerodynamic development will include both passive and active measures to ensure high-speed stability and sharp handling.
Upgraded Plug-in Hybrid Powertrains
Both models are expected to adopt battery packs larger than the 7.4 kWh unit used in the Artura, offering improved everyday usability while preserving McLaren’s weight-conscious approach. The plug-in hybrid systems will be tuned primarily to enhance performance rather than maximize electric-only range.
The Artura — McLaren’s first plug-in hybrid supercar — pairs a twin‑turbo V6 with an electric motor for a combined output of 690 hp. The new SUV and sedan will follow the same engineering philosophy, using electrification as a performance enabler rather than as a purely efficiency-first solution.
Following Industry Trends
McLaren’s decision is also a market-driven strategy. Competitors have shown that SUVs and premium four-doors can deliver strong sales and margins: Ferrari with the Purosangue, Aston Martin with the DBX, and similar moves from Porsche, Lotus and Maserati. For McLaren, historically known for coupes and spiders, expanding into these segments is becoming necessary to stay competitive.
Despite diversifying, McLaren will not abandon combustion engines or the essence of driving emotion. The company has confirmed its roadmap will preserve attributes like lightness, high-quality materials and exceptional power. McLaren’s upcoming W1 hypercar, for example, is set to combine a V8 with electric assistance for a combined output in excess of 1,200 hp.
