McLaren is ditching its two-door-only approach as the struggling British supercar maker searches for new revenue streams under new ownership. The company plans to introduce a “utility style” vehicle in 2027, shifting away from the mid-engined sports cars that built the brand.
Abu Dhabi investment firm CYVN Holdings acquired McLaren in April and immediately began planning expansion beyond traditional supercar territory. At a recent dealer meeting, new CEO Nick Collins confirmed the brand will move well past its current mid-engined portfolio while staying true to performance roots.
The mysterious utility vehicle remains intentionally vague in description. McLaren executives avoid calling it a crossover or SUV, saying the body style is still under consideration. The model will likely replace the current GTS grand tourer and be developed entirely in-house using CYVN’s expanded resources.
CYVN brings serious automotive connections to McLaren’s table. The investment firm owns British startup Forseven, which merged with McLaren, plus holds controlling stakes in Gordon Murray Design’s EV division and minority ownership in Chinese EV maker Nio. The Gordon Murray connection carries particular irony since Murray designed the legendary McLaren F1 in the 1990s.
McLaren’s electrification strategy focuses on hybrids rather than pure electric vehicles. Most of the lineup will be hybridized within three years, but the company isn’t positioned to roll out full EVs yet. A dealer confirmed the upcoming lineup will retain internal combustion engines alongside electric assistance.
The current 750S represents McLaren’s immediate focus. Originally planned for plug-in hybrid replacement next year, those plans got postponed. The limited edition 750S Le Mans celebrates 30 years since McLaren’s endurance racing victory with high downforce kit, carbon fiber roof scoop, and distinctive styling. The standard 750S packs 740 horsepower from its twin turbo V8, hitting 60 mph in 2.7 seconds.
Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche have already found crossover success by funding continued supercar development. The strategy makes financial sense even if it disappoints purists who prefer McLaren’s traditional mid-engined focus.
CYVN’s integration of Forseven designs and Gordon Murray Technologies’ engineering into McLaren’s lineup suggests the utility vehicle will maintain performance credentials while expanding market reach.
The four-door McLaren depicts a necessary evolution for a brand seeking financial stability in an increasingly competitive luxury market. And at times, survival requires abandoning tradition, even when that tradition involves doors that open upward.
