McLaren 650S (2015–2018) Review: Coupe and Spider, the Supercar You Can Actually Use

I’ve had seat time in both the McLaren 650S Coupe and Spider, and I’ll admit it: I wasn’t sure at first. Could something this quick be this friendly? Two blocks later, with that hydraulic steering wriggling in my fingertips and the twin-turbo V8 breathing behind my shoulders, I got it. The McLaren 650S is a rare thing—a true supercar that doesn’t punish you for wanting a coffee run.

Where the McLaren 650S Fits in the Family

Launched in 2015 as an evolution of the 12C, the McLaren 650S sharpened the formula: more power, added aero, and that P1-inspired face. It sits right in the sweet spot of McLaren’s modern era—less digital theater than the later 720S, more personality than the 12C. And whether you choose the fixed-roof Coupe or the retractable-hardtop Spider, the core character doesn’t change: it’s fast, focused, and surprisingly civil.

McLaren 650S Performance: Numbers That Still Matter

• Engine: 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 (M838T)
• Output: 641 hp (650 PS) and 500 lb-ft (678 Nm)
• Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch (SSG)
• 0–60 mph: 2.9 seconds (claimed)
• Top speed: 207 mph (Coupe), 204 mph (Spider)
• Brakes: Standard carbon-ceramics
• Chassis: ProActive Chassis Control with adaptive roll and damping

I noticed right away how the 650S breathes with the road. In Normal mode, the ride is calm—almost soft for a supercar. Flick the chassis dial to Sport or Track and it tightens, but still never goes crashy. When I tried it on rough backroads, the body stayed flat while the suspension did the sweating. And the steering—hydraulic, beautifully weighted—feels like an endangered species in this segment.

On-Road Character vs Rivals

Compared with a Ferrari 488 GTB, the McLaren 650S is cooler-headed and a touch more precise; the Ferrari shouts, the 650S converses. A Lamborghini Huracán is the extrovert (and sounds glorious), but the McLaren communicates better through the wheel. Against a Porsche 911 Turbo S, the 650S is lighter on its feet and more exotic in feel, though the Turbo S claws back with relentless all-weather speed and polish.

Spider Life: Roof Down, Grip Up

Is the McLaren 650S a convertible? Yep—the Spider uses a retractable hardtop that folds in about 17 seconds at low speeds (around 19 mph). With the glass rear window dropped, buffeting is mild; conversation is easy at urban pace, and on the motorway you can still hear the turbos whistle like a distant kettle. The best bit? Chassis rigidity barely suffers, so you still get that wonderfully stable, planted feel on a good road.

Living With a McLaren 650S

Cabin quality is tidy and purposeful. The seats are set low, visibility is shockingly good for a mid-engined supercar, and the doors make every valet feel like a movie premiere. A few owners mentioned to me the infotainment (IRIS) can be a little… moody. It works, but don’t expect Tesla snappiness. Also, keep a trickle charger handy if you don’t daily it—McLarens prefer being plugged in when parked for long stretches.

Practical note: the front trunk handles a couple of soft bags—perfect for a long weekend. And yes, it’s quiet enough to hear your kids arguing in the back… if you had a back seat. You don’t.

Parts and Accessories: Small Upgrades, Big Difference

If you’re protective of your carpets (sand, snow, overenthusiastic lattes), good floor mats are worth it. For model-specific fit and nicer materials, I’ve had luck pointing readers to AutoWin, which offers tailored sets for the McLaren 650S. You can browse options and order directly from their AutoWin e-shop.

Prefer a bolder pop of color inside your McLaren? There are Alcantara-accented sets too:

What the McLaren 650S Cost Then—and Now

How much does a McLaren 650S cost? When new, most landed around $250,000–$300,000 depending on options and whether you went Coupe or Spider. Today, a clean 2015 McLaren can range widely based on mileage and spec—think roughly $120,000 to $200,000 from reputable sellers. If you’re shopping, have a specialist inspection done; it’s money well spent.

McLaren 650S vs Key Rivals

On a fast, flowing road the McLaren 650S feels the most “race car for the road”—light inputs, huge grip, silly pace. The 488 is drama and theatre, the Huracán is noise and swagger, and the Turbo S is a laser-guided missile. Pick your poison.

McLaren 650S Highlights and Quirks

• F1-tech vibes: ProActive Chassis Control delivers roll stiffness without ruining the ride.
• Brake Steer subtly tightens your line mid-corner—handy on tight mountain switchbacks.
• Straight-line urge is volcanic; mid-range torque makes overtakes effortless.
• IRIS infotainment is the weak link; consider it “vintage modern.”
• Road trips? Absolutely. It’s quiet enough at cruise to chat, roof up or down.

Verdict: Why the McLaren 650S Still Hits

Is the McLaren 650S a supercar? Absolutely. But more than that, it’s a driver’s car—clear-eyed, communicative, and blisteringly fast without resorting to gimmicks. If you want a luxury supercar that’s just as happy on a mountain pass as it is trundling to dinner, the 650S (Coupe or Spider) remains a compelling, and frankly, addictive choice. And if you’re kitting out the cabin, tailored floor mats from AutoWin are a neat finishing touch for your McLaren.

FAQ: McLaren 650S (2015–2018)

• Is the McLaren 650S a convertible? Yes. The 650S Spider has a retractable hardtop that operates in about 17 seconds at low speeds.
• How much does a McLaren 650S cost? New, they hovered around $250,000–$300,000. Used values vary widely by year, miles, and spec; shop carefully and get a specialist inspection.
• Is the McLaren 650S a supercar? Without question—641 hp, sub-3-second 0–60, and serious track-caliber hardware.
• Common quirks? IRIS infotainment responsiveness, occasional sensor/battery gremlins if the car sits—keep it on a tender and drive it regularly.
• Best accessories? Model-specific floor mats and interior protection; see AutoWin for McLaren 650S options.