Motoring Today
In-depth review

McLaren 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

hp · Power
640
miles · Range / tank
380
0–60 mph
2.9s
Running costs
£££
Typical finance
From £3305/mo

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for
  • Exhilarating performance and handling
  • Striking design and engineering excellence
  • Strong resale value and brand prestige
Consider alternatives if
  • 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

Fuel

£245/month

Insurance

£100/month

Road Tax

£61/month

Servicing

£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

McLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) interior and driving experience

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

Parkers

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 review
Autocar

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 review
WhatCar

WhatCar 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

Finance & affordability

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.

Day-to-day running costs

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.

Charging & fuel

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

  1. 2014

    Launch of the McLaren 650S

  2. 2015

    Introduction of the 650S Spider variant

  3. 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

Reference only

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.
No Motoring Today review

Porsche 911 Turbo S

Reference only

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.
No Motoring Today review

Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Reference only

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.
No Motoring Today review

Available now

McLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) for sale on Motoring Today

McLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) trim & engine line-up

Representative trims and engines recorded for this model.

TrimFuelPower0–60EconomyCO₂Ins.New price
V8 Coupe 2d SSG AutoAutomatic · Rear wheel drive · 2014–2016Petrol640 bhp2.9s24 mpg275 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.

McLaren 650S (2014 - 2016) (2014–2016)

From £3305/month