Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (326 km/h)
Fuel, maker's test (11.7 L/100 km)
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is highly polarized, split between owners who report an exceptional, reliable driving experience and those who report persistent, debilitating reliability issues.
5 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPersistent electronic system failures
Includes traction control errors, TPMS faults, ABS faults, power window malfunctions (can prevent door operation), key recognition failures, driver display and infotainment screen freezes, and complete vehicle lockouts.
- Very frequentHydraulic suspension accumulator failures
Components wear out, typically every 1-4 years depending on use, causing PCC errors and preventing suspension mode changes.
- RecurrentInfotainment (IRIS) touchscreen failure
Screen becomes unresponsive or fails; replacement is costly ($2,000-$4,000 USD).
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentGeneral reliability inconsistency
Cars described as "binary"; some examples are very reliable even with high mileage, while others with low mileage have constant issues. No clear pattern based on production date.
- IsolatedEngine overheating during track use
Engine heats up significantly faster than competitors like Porsche GT3 RS, limiting sustained track sessions to approximately 2 laps on a circuit like the Nürburgring.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a definitive "best" version. Limited feedback suggests coupes with the roof scoop and louvered fenders are the most sought-after configurations for collectibility. No clear consensus emerges from the data on a performance or reliability advantage for the Coupe versus the Spider.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ferrari 458, Ferrari 488, Porsche 911 GT3/GT3 RS, Lamborghini Huracan and McLaren 720S.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is highly polarized, split between owners who report an exceptional, reliable driving experience and those who report persistent, debilitating reliability issues. The vehicle is universally praised as a phenomenal driving machine, described as a "peak" model for the brand, a "beast," and one of the best-driving cars on the road even years later. Its driving dynamics, lightweight construction, and raw performance are celebrated. However, a significant portion of owner feedback details severe and frequent electronic failures, poor dealer service experiences, and a general lack of dependability that can render the car unusable for extended periods. The consensus indicates that when functioning, the 675LT is an unparalleled driver's car, but ownership is a high-risk proposition due to unpredictable reliability and costly, inconvenient repairs.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a focused, lightweight, track-capable evolution of the 650S within the McLaren Super Series. It is frequently described as offering superior driving dynamics and engagement compared to many rivals, particularly the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, which it is noted to compete closely with on lap times. Compared to the McLaren 720S, the 675LT is characterized as a more raw and fierce "track weapon," whereas the 720S is seen as a more comfortable and technologically advanced grand tourer. It is often cited as a high-value performance proposition on the used market compared to newer supercars, but this value is heavily offset by its reputation for reliability concerns when contrasted with more dependable brands like Porsche or Lamborghini.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient specific configuration data from owner discussions. General purchase advice centers on due diligence rather than recommended options.
General recommendations
Not recommended as a financial investment; purchase should be for driving enjoyment. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection (PPI) from a specialist like McMedics is considered essential. Buyers must scrutinize the full service history, focusing on repair frequency beyond normal maintenance. Key checks include: verifying the condition of the hydraulic suspension accumulators (a common failure point), testing all suspension modes for errors, performing a true cold start to check for rough idle or smoke (indicative of cam phaser issues), testing the infotainment (IRIS) touchscreen responsiveness, testing the front lift system if equipped, and checking battery health. Contacting the servicing McLaren dealer with the VIN for a history is advised. Ownership requires frequent use; letting the car sit is detrimental to systems like the accumulators. Expect annual service costs in the range of $4,000-$6,000 USD. Be prepared for potentially long repair times and inconsistent dealer service quality.
Remarks
The stark divide in reliability reports suggests individual vehicle history is more critical than for typical models. The reputation for "unreliability" is heavily debated within the owner community; some argue it is overstated and based on outdated information or improper maintenance (e.g., letting cars sit), while others report catastrophic ownership experiences. The hydraulic Proactive Chassis Control (PCC) system, while praised for its performance, is a noted source of expensive consumable parts (accumulators). The 3.8L twin-turbo V8 (M838T) is generally considered robust, with major mechanical failures being rare in stock configurations. Analysis based on approximately 24 substantive owner discussions and experiences.
Specifications
Not sold in North America: these versions are from other markets.
3.8 V8 SSG
3.8L 8-cylinder · 675 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2016–2017