The McLaren 650S is praised for its blistering performance, sharp handling, and striking design. Owners appreciate the exhilarating driving experience and the luxurious interior. However, some criticisms include limited practicality and a high price tag, which may deter potential buyers.
Read full reviewMcLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) review
Motoring Today Editorial · Updated 25 Jul 2026 · 9 min read· 2014–2016
The McLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) is sold in the UK between 2014 and 2016. Engine choices cover petrol power, with automatic gearboxes. Bodystyles run to 2 seats and 2 doors. This review covers what the McLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) is like to drive and live with, running costs, common faults and reliability, and what to check before you buy a used one. Our reviewers score it 3.8 out of 5 overall.
The McLaren 650S is a remarkable supercar that successfully marries performance with luxury. Its stunning design, exhilarating driving dynamics, and advanced technology make it a must-have for any serious car enthusiast. While ownership comes with its costs, the experience of driving this vehicle is unparalleled. For those seeking a blend of heritage and modernity, the McLaren 650S is a clear recommendation, especially as the automotive landscape evolves towards electric performance.
At a glance
Motoring.Today. verdict
- Exhilarating performance and handling
- Striking design and engineering excellence
- Strong resale value and brand prestige
- High running costs
- Limited practicality for daily use
- Stiff ride quality in urban settings
Finance snapshot
Typical monthly payment
£3305/month
Based on PCP · 48 months · £19,800 deposit
Best suited for
- Company Car Drivers
- Petrol/Diesel Buyers
- High Mileage Drivers
- Families
Affordability
Premium
Above average monthly commitment.
Theo's AI summary
The McLaren 650S is a remarkable supercar that successfully marries performance with luxury. Its stunning design, exhilarating driving dynamics, and advanced technology make it a must-have for any serious car enthusiast. While ownership comes with its costs, the experience of driving this vehicle is unparalleled. For those seeking a blend of heritage and modernity, the McLaren 650S is a clear recommendation, especially as the automotive landscape evolves towards electric performance.
Best match for
- Performance enthusiasts
- Practical families
- Budget-conscious buyers
Estimated ownership costs
Based on 10,000 miles per year
£245/month
£100/month
£61/month
£60/month
Estimated total
£466/month
Could this fit your budget?
Check your eligibility with a soft search that won't affect your credit score.
- Representative monthly payments
- Personalised to you
- No obligation
Safe, secure and confidential

Handling is one of the standout features of the McLaren 650S. The advanced suspension system, combined with the car's low centre of gravity, ensures exceptional cornering capabilities. The vehicle feels planted and stable, even at high speeds, allowing drivers to tackle tight ben
Verified spec data
Specifications
Performance
Power
640 bhp
0–60 mph
2.9 s
Fastest in range
Top speed
207 mph
Engine
3,799 cc
Economy & running
Fuel economy
24.0 mpg
WLTP combined
CO₂
275 g/km
Road tax
£735/yr
Standard VED
Dimensions & practicality
Length
4,509 mm
Width
2,093 mm
Height
1,199 mm
Wheelbase
2,670 mm
Kerb weight
1,330 kg
Seats
2
Doors
2
Figures span the 1 recorded trim variants (2014–2016). Exact figures vary by trim, options and model year — always confirm on the specific car's listing.
Check this 650S before you buy
External voices
What the experts say
The 650S is lauded for its stunning aesthetics and aerodynamic design, which enhance both performance and visual appeal. The interior is noted for its quality materials and driver-focused layout. Critics mention that the ride can be firm, which may not suit all drivers.
Read full reviewWhatCar highlights the 650S's impressive reliability for a supercar, with few reported issues. The build quality is commended, although the high running costs and limited dealer network are potential drawbacks for owners.
Ownership intelligence
The real cost of owning one
Financing options for the McLaren 650S are available through various channels, including traditional loans, leasing, and specialised supercar finance providers. Given the vehicle's high value, potential buyers should carefully consider their financial options to ensure a manageable investment. The resale value of the 650S remains strong, making it a worthwhile consideration for enthusiasts looking to own a piece of automotive history.
Running costs for the McLaren 650S can be significant, reflecting its status as a high-performance supercar. Owners should anticipate expenses related to maintenance, insurance, and servicing, which are essential to keep the vehicle in peak condition. Regular servicing at authorised centres is crucial to ensure the longevity of the engine and other components, and while these costs may be higher than average, they are indicative of the quality and performance expected from a McLaren.
As a petrol-powered supercar, the McLaren 650S requires premium fuel to maintain optimal performance. Fuel consumption can vary based on driving style, but owners should expect lower fuel efficiency compared to standard vehicles. For those considering the transition to electric, the concept of a retro icon reborn in an electric format is an exciting prospect, blending the thrill of McLaren's performance with the sustainability of electric power.
Heritage
Milestones & history
2014
Launch of the McLaren 650S
2015
Introduction of the 650S Spider variant
2016
End of production, paving the way for the next generation of McLaren supercars
Read full launch story
The McLaren 650S was designed to bridge the gap between the brand's flagship P1 hypercar and the more accessible 12C, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and everyday usability. Since its introduction, the 650S has evolved in terms of technology and design, incorporating lessons learned from McLaren's racing pedigree and customer feedback, ultimately leading to its status as a modern classic.
Compare with alternatives
The McLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) stands out in its class for its extreme performance and lightweight design, competing closely with luxury sports cars like the Ferrari California T, Porsche 911 Turbo S, and Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
Ferrari California T
Luxury sports car with a focus on grand touring and comfort.
- vs features
- The California T offers a more luxurious interior and a smoother ride compared to the McLaren 650S, which is more track-focused and aggressive in its driving feel. The tech features are comparable, but the Ferrari leans more towards comfort and style.
- vs price
- Typically, the California T is priced similarly to the 650S, but can be slightly more expensive depending on options and condition.
Porsche 911 Turbo S
High-performance sports car known for its balance of everyday usability and track capability.
- vs features
- The 911 Turbo S provides a more refined driving experience with excellent all-around performance. It features a high-quality cabin with advanced tech, but the McLaren 650S is more focused on raw performance and lightweight dynamics.
- vs price
- The 911 Turbo S is generally in the same price range as the 650S, but can be slightly less expensive depending on the model year and options.
Aston Martin V8 Vantage
Luxury sports car with a focus on style and driving pleasure.
- vs features
- The V8 Vantage emphasizes a more classic sports car feel with a luxurious interior, but it lacks the raw performance and advanced technology found in the McLaren 650S. The driving experience is more about enjoyment than outright speed.
- vs price
- The V8 Vantage is typically less expensive than the 650S, making it a more accessible option for buyers looking for a luxury sports car.
Available now
McLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) for sale on Motoring Today
Gallery
(15)McLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) trim & engine line-up
Representative trims and engines recorded for this model.
| Trim | Fuel | Power | 0–60 | Economy | CO₂ | Ins. | New price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| V8 Coupe 2d SSG AutoAutomatic · Rear wheel drive · 2014–2016 | Petrol | 640 bhp | 2.9s | 24 mpg | 275 g/km | — | £198,055 |
Specs by trim
V8 Coupe 2d SSG AutoPetrol Automatic · 2014–2016
- Power
- 640 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 2.9 s
- Top speed
- 207 mph
- Torque
- 678 Nm
- Economy
- 24 mpg
- Range
- 380 mi
- CO₂
- 275 g/km
- Road tax
- £735
- New price
- £198,055
FAQs
- What makes the McLaren 650S a retro icon reborn?
- The McLaren 650S combines its classic design with modern electric technology, showcasing a blend of nostalgia and innovation while maintaining high-performance standards.
- How does the McLaren 650S perform as an electric vehicle?
- The electric variant of the McLaren 650S promises impressive performance, retaining the brand's racing pedigree while offering eco-friendly driving without compromising on power.
- What are the running costs associated with owning a McLaren 650S?
- Owning a McLaren 650S involves high running costs, including a purchase price of around £215,000, average fuel economy of 24mpg, and steep insurance premiums.
- Is the McLaren 650S suitable for daily driving?
- Yes, the McLaren 650S offers everyday usability with its agile handling and comfort, although its firm ride may be less forgiving on rough roads.
- What are the key features of the McLaren 650S?
- Key features of the McLaren 650S include a twin-turbo V8 engine delivering 650bhp, excellent aerodynamics, stunning design, and innovative technology for an exhilarating driving experience.














