The MCL-HY GTR has been revealed as the by-product of a collaboration between McLaren Racing and McLaren Automotive. It is based on the still-under-development MCL-HY race car, which has also been revealed ahead of its 2027 season of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Despite being a product that can be purchased, the GTR variant will be a track-only model.
- Engineered alongside the MCL-HY race car
- MCL-HY GTR’s twin-turbo engine to produce about 730hp
- Customer deliveries to start towards the end of 2027
McLaren MCL-HY GTR: What is it?
Much like the Ferrari 499P Modificata, the McLaren MCL-HY GTR will be a track-only, limited-run iteration of the race car it is based on. Powering the MCL-HY will be a race-spec twin-turbocharged V6 mated to a hybrid MGU (Motor Generator Unit) system. This powertrain will drive the rear wheels, with a combined maximum output of up to 707hp. The MCL-HY features a lightweight carbon-fibre monocoque chassis.
As for the MCL-HY GTR, it will use a 2.9-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine with an estimated output of about 730hp. McLaren also claims that ditching the hybrid MGU system will result in a lower dry weight for the GTR variant while providing “a purer driving experience on track days and authentic hypercar performance and feel without additional complexity.”
McLaren MCL-HY GTR: What more will buyers get?
While further technical details are awaited, ownership of the upcoming McLaren MCL-HY GTR will allow customers to experience the brand’s ‘Project: Endurance’ programme. As part of this programme, elite clients will be provided a behind-the-scenes look at the McLaren Racing team’s operations, which include testing and development of the race car and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2027.
Ownership of the MCL-HY GTR will also include “a two-year, six-event track driving programme curated across international circuits”, according to McLaren. Furthermore, owners will be provided professional coaching on how to drive their cars on race tracks, plus a dedicated pit crew and engineering support. All of this will be offered by the brand on an “all-inclusive arrive-and-drive basis”. Customer deliveries of the MCL-HY GTR will start towards the end of 2027, according to McLaren.
Meanwhile, the MCL-HY race car’s 2026 test programme includes McLaren Hypercar Team works driver Mikkel Jensen, McLaren Driver Development Programme drivers Gregoire Saucy and Richard Verschoor and United Autosports driver Ben Hanley. The race car is finished in the 2026 test livery inspired by the McLaren M6A. Its on-track testing is slated to start this month, with the homologation process set for late 2026 or early 2027.
