McLaren Hot Hatch a Possibility?
Could McLaren be considering a hot hatch to complement its model lineup?
It’s certainly a possibility, at least in the future, according to McLaren designer Frank Stephenson. In a recent interview with Autovisie, Stephenson went on the record to say, “I see a car like the VW Golf for 30 to 40,000 EUR ($40 to $50,000), but McLaren with a carbon fiber monocoque, to happen in the future.”
SEE ALSO: 2013 McLaren MP4-12C Review – Video
Stephenson has plenty of experience designing hatchback models too, having put his touch on the MINI Cooper, Fiat 500 and the Alfa Romeo Mi.To. And of course Stephenson has played a major role in the design of the MP4-12C and P1 models.
But before we even have a chance of seeing a McLaren hatchback concept, the British automaker will be developing its P13 road car first. Expected to use the same 3.8-liter, twin-turbo engine found in the MP4-12C, the P13 is being developed to compete directly with the Porsche 911 Turbo with a price tag of around $180,000. Once McLaren has the P1, MP4-12C and P13 out on the market however, don’t be surprised if it turns its attention towards a more affordable, sporty hatchback.
[Source: Autovisie via Road & Track]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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