McLaren is making the most of the supercar platform that debuted with the defunct MP4-12C, using it as the foundation for two model lines – P1 and Super Series – encompassing five variants.
That could just be a warm up, though.
The McLaren Sports Series set to debut next month at the 2015 New York Auto Show could include up to seven variants, according to Car and Driver.
In other words, it looks like this “entry level” McLaren will follow the Porsche 911 model of numerous variations on a theme.
That will include at least three body styles: a coupe, convertible, and something called a “GT.” A fourth body style is also rumored.
The base model will reportedly carry the “C” designation like the Asian-market 625C, while an “S” serving as a counterpart to the 650S will be next in the hierarchy. Both of these models will be available at launch.
Further down the road, McLaren is also expected to offer a sportier model that would be the Sports Series’ equivalent of the recently-unveiled 675LT.
All Sports Series models will likely feature the same 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 used in every other recent McLaren, but with less power than in the more expensive models.
The baby McLaren may also go without some of the fancier tech, like active aero, to keep prices relatively low.
How low? Early estimates put the Sports Series roughly on the level of the Porsche 911 Turbo, meaning it will start somewhere in the $150,000 range, compared to about $265,000 for a 650S.
We’ll have all of the details on the McLaren Sports Series when it debuts at the 2015 New York Auto Show next month.