Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (341 km/h)
Fuel, maker's test (12.2 L/100 km)
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided, creating a high-risk, high-reward ownership profile.
5 problems reported (3 very frequent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPoor reliability and frequent mechanical/electrical failures
Very common issues include infotainment module failures, failing suspension accumulators, cracked springs, squeaking/worn front bushings, dead accumulators, rattling downpipes, broken wheel speed sensor wires, and water pump failures.
- Very frequentLow-quality interior materials and build quality
Interior described as feeling cheap, using excessive hard plastic, suffering from squeaks and rattles, and having buggy infotainment software.
- Very frequentRapid depreciation and poor residuals
Value sinks faster than competitors due to reliability reputation and high production volumes, making it a poor investment.
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedSuspension tuning complaints
Described as having a "hilariously bad" suspension that is too hard on high-speed compression and too soft on low-speed compression, making the car unsettled and "jerky" on imperfect roads.
- IsolatedEngine sound character
Criticized for a droning, unmusical engine note at lower RPMs, with exciting sound only arriving at very high revs.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Owner discussions mention later model years (2020-2021) having better software packages that resolved some electrical glitches present in 2018-2019 cars. The Performance trim is mentioned as desirable. The 720S Spider is discussed but no clear preference over the coupe is established, with notes that roof failures are not common but convertibles have a unique wear item (a water bag) that can fail.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Lamborghini Huracan, Ferrari F8 Tributo, Porsche 911 Turbo S, Porsche 911 GT3 and Audi R8.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided, creating a high-risk, high-reward ownership profile. The vehicle is universally praised for its staggering performance, with owners describing it as an "absolute savage," "the fastest of the bunch," and offering "the best ICE performance" in its segment. The driving experience is noted for being incredibly engaging, with exceptional handling, grip, and braking performance that is frequently compared to a race car. However, this is counterbalanced by very frequent and severe criticism regarding reliability and build quality. The car is described as having a "notorious history of unreliability," being "mostly made out of fucking plastic," and suffering from "tons of issues and constant quality control problems." The consensus indicates that while the 720S delivers a peerless driving thrill, ownership is often marred by mechanical and electrical failures, high repair costs, and poor long-term residuals, making it a compelling choice only for those who prioritize raw performance above all else and are prepared for significant upkeep.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as the performance and value leader against direct supercar rivals, but at a significant cost to reliability and prestige. It is consistently described as faster and more thrilling to drive than the Lamborghini Huracan, which is seen as more stable, easier to maintain, and having better brand cachet. Compared to Ferrari, the 720S is viewed as the more exciting and faster driver's car, but Ferrari is acknowledged for superior interior quality, leather, heritage, and generally better long-term reliability. Against the Porsche 911 Turbo S, the McLaren is seen as a more focused and extreme machine, while the Porsche is considered more usable and reliable. The 720S is frequently noted for offering tremendous performance for its depreciated price on the used market, but this "value" is directly tied to its poor residuals and reputation for problems.
Recommended configurations
A factory-backed Extended Service Contract (ESC) or Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) warranty is very strongly recommended by multiple owners and a specialist technician due to extremely high repair costs (e.g., DCT replacement at ~$50,000, infotainment module at ~$6,000). For used purchases, a 2020 or later model year is suggested for improved software stability. A thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is considered mandatory, with specific checks for failing suspension accumulators, worn front bushings, cracked springs, rattling downpipes, and broken wheel speed sensor wires. The coupe may be preferable for those concerned about long-term convertible mechanism complexity.
General recommendations
Suitable only for experienced enthusiasts who value extreme performance above reliability, comfort, and cost of ownership. Ideal for buyers who have access to a specialist technician and a significant budget for unexpected repairs. Strongly advised to purchase with a comprehensive manufacturer-backed warranty. Not recommended as a first supercar or for owners seeking a low-maintenance, dependable exotic car. Buyers should test drive extensively to evaluate the car's "twitchy" high-speed character compared to more stable competitors like the Huracan. Be prepared for rapid depreciation. Negotiate purchase price aggressively due to high used market inventory and poor residuals.
Remarks
The 720S's core identity is defined by a severe dichotomy: it is arguably the fastest and most capable driver's car in its segment for several model years, yet it is hamstrung by a reputation for poor quality control and reliability that is worse than its Italian and German rivals. This reputation directly fuels its steep depreciation, creating a cycle where used prices become attractive but expose buyers to high potential repair costs. Technical notes indicate 2018-2019 cars have specific software glitches (e.g., warning lights from starting too quickly) largely fixed in later models. Common wear items like suspension accumulators have a lifespan of approximately 20,000 miles. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions and technician commentary.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
Recall notices3 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2019 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 21V561000
McLaren Automotive Incorporated (McLaren) is recalling certain 2020 570S, GT, 2019 600LT, and 2019-2020 720S vehicles. The brake assembly banjo bolt may be missing the holes that supply brake fluid to the caliper, which would cause the brakes to fail on one corner of the vehicle.
2019 · fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assemblycampaign 20V231000
McLaren Automotive Incorporated (McLaren) is recalling certain 2016-2020 720S, 2019 Senna, 2020 GT, and 2017-2019 570GT vehicles. The Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) foam pad underneath the fuel tank may retain moisture and corrode the fuel tank, potentially causing a fuel leak.
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assemblycampaign 20V231000
McLaren Automotive Incorporated (McLaren) is recalling certain 2016-2020 720S, 2019 Senna, 2020 GT, and 2017-2019 570GT vehicles. The Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) foam pad underneath the fuel tank may retain moisture and corrode the fuel tank, potentially causing a fuel leak.
Specifications
4.0 V8 SSG
4.0L 8-cylinder · 720 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2019–2023