MCLAREN Cars: Complete Guide, Models & Reliability (2025)

McLaren is a prestigious British automotive manufacturer renowned for its high-performance sports cars and cutting-edge technology. With a total of 104 vehicles registered, McLaren has established itself as a leader in the luxury automotive market, appealing to enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

Introduction and Brand Overview

McLaren is a prestigious British automotive manufacturer renowned for its high-performance sports cars and cutting-edge technology. With a total of 104 vehicles registered, McLaren has established itself as a leader in the luxury automotive market, appealing to enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The brand's most popular models include the 720S V8 S-A, with 18 units, and the 570, which has 12 units registered. Other notable models include the MP4-12C and a category of vehicles classified as 'UNKNOWN', indicating a diverse range of offerings. The data reflects a strong preference for petrol vehicles, with 64 registered as petrol and an additional 34 listed as PETROL, alongside a minimal presence of diesel and hybrid electric options.

In terms of age distribution, McLaren vehicles span a wide range of model years, from the early 1914 model to the latest registrations in 2025. The majority of vehicles are from the more recent years, with 18 models from 2019 and 13 from 2018, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation and performance.

McLaren vehicles have an impressive average MOT pass rate of 93.7%, indicating a high level of reliability and quality. However, common failures have been noted, primarily in categories such as suspension, exhaust and emissions, and tyres, which are important considerations for potential buyers.

All data presented is based on current registrations and MOT test results, and while efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, it is advisable to verify specific details independently. McLaren continues to be a symbol of automotive excellence, combining luxury with performance in every model.

Popular MCLAREN Models

McLaren is renowned for its high-performance sports cars, and the brand's popularity is reflected in the variety of models available. With a total of 104 vehicles registered in the UK, several models stand out in terms of popularity and performance.

The 720S V8 S-A is one of the most sought-after models, with 18 registrations. This supercar is celebrated for its exceptional speed and cutting-edge technology, making it a favourite among enthusiasts. Following closely is the 570, which has 12 registrations, known for its balance of performance and everyday usability.

Interestingly, there are 43 vehicles listed without a specific model name, indicating a potential for unique or rare variants. The MP4-12C, with 4 registrations, is another notable model, representing McLaren's early foray into the modern supercar market.

In terms of fuel types, petrol remains the dominant choice, with 64 vehicles running on petrol and an additional 34 classified as PETROL. There is also a small presence of diesel and hybrid electric vehicles, each with one registration.

When examining the age distribution of McLaren vehicles, the most recent models are from 2025, with 1 registration, and 2024, with 6 registrations. The 2019 models are the most prevalent, with 18 registrations, showcasing the brand's ongoing appeal.

McLaren vehicles have an impressive average MOT pass rate of 93.7%, indicating their reliability and performance standards. However, common failures noted during MOT tests include issues related to suspension, exhaust and emissions, and tyres.

All data presented is based on current registrations and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to official sources.

MOT Reliability and Common Issues

When it comes to the reliability of McLaren vehicles during the MOT (Ministry of Transport) test, the statistics are quite promising. With an average pass rate of 93.7%, McLaren owners can generally expect their vehicles to perform well during inspections. This high pass rate reflects the brand's commitment to quality and engineering excellence.

Out of a total of 270 MOT tests conducted on McLaren vehicles, only a small number have resulted in failures. The most common issues identified during these tests include categories such as 'Other' (6 failures), 'Suspension' (4 failures), and 'Exhaust & Emissions' (3 failures). Additionally, tyre-related issues and lighting problems have also been noted, each contributing to 3 and 1 failures respectively.

Among the McLaren models, the 720S V8 S-A and the 570 are the most prevalent, with 18 and 12 units respectively. The distribution of fuel types shows a strong preference for petrol, with 64 vehicles running on petrol and 34 on PETROL, while only one vehicle is diesel and another is hybrid electric. This fuel distribution is indicative of McLaren's focus on high-performance petrol engines.

In terms of age distribution, the majority of McLaren vehicles tested are relatively new, with 9 registered in 2023 and 8 in 2022. However, there are also older models, including one from 1995 and another from 1914, which may face different challenges during the MOT process.

It is important to note that while these statistics provide a general overview, individual vehicle performance can vary. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to ensure continued reliability and compliance with MOT standards.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and the figures presented here are based on the latest available information.

Ownership Costs and Tax Information

Owning a McLaren is not just about the thrill of driving; it also involves understanding the associated ownership costs and tax implications. With a total of 104 vehicles registered, McLaren's lineup primarily consists of high-performance petrol models, accounting for 98% of the fuel type distribution. This includes popular models such as the 720S V8 S-A and the 570, which are known for their exceptional performance and engineering.

When considering ownership costs, it's essential to factor in the vehicle's fuel efficiency, insurance premiums, and maintenance expenses. The average MOT pass rate for McLaren vehicles stands at an impressive 93.7%, indicating a strong reliability factor. However, common failures during MOT tests include issues related to suspension, exhaust and emissions, and tyres, which may contribute to maintenance costs.

In terms of tax, owners of high-performance vehicles like McLaren may face higher road tax rates due to their emissions and engine size. The fuel type distribution shows a significant preference for petrol, with 64 vehicles using petrol and 34 classified as PETROL, which may influence tax brackets. Additionally, there is a small representation of diesel and hybrid electric models, which could offer different tax advantages.

As of the latest data, the most recent registrations include models from various years, with a notable concentration in the 2019-2023 range. This suggests that potential buyers should consider depreciation rates and resale values, which can significantly impact overall ownership costs.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on current statistics and may vary over time. Always consult with a financial advisor or automotive expert for the most accurate and tailored advice regarding ownership costs and tax implications.

Buying Guide and What to Check

Buying Guide and What to Check

When considering a McLaren, it’s essential to understand the unique characteristics of this luxury automotive brand. With a total of 104 vehicles available, the most popular models include the 720S V8 S-A, 570, and MP4-12C. Each model offers a distinct driving experience, so it’s crucial to identify which one aligns with your preferences.

Fuel type is another important factor. The majority of McLarens are petrol vehicles, with 64 classified as petrol and an additional 34 as PETROL, indicating a strong preference for high-performance engines. There is also a small representation of diesel and hybrid electric options, which may appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.

Year distribution shows a range of models from 1995 to 2025, with the most recent registrations being from 2024 and 2023. This variety allows buyers to choose between newer models with the latest technology and older models that may offer a different driving experience.

Before finalising your purchase, it’s advisable to check the vehicle’s MOT history. McLarens have an impressive average MOT pass rate of 93.7%, indicating reliability. However, common failures should be noted, including issues related to suspension, exhaust and emissions, and tyres. Specifically, suspension problems were reported in 4 cases, while exhaust and emissions issues were noted in 3 instances.

Lastly, ensure you verify the vehicle’s history and condition, especially if considering older models. With a total of 270 MOT tests conducted, understanding the common pitfalls can help you make an informed decision. Always consult with a professional for a thorough inspection before purchasing.

Disclaimer: Data accuracy is based on available statistics and may vary. Always conduct your own research and consult professionals when necessary.

Related Information and Resources

Related Information and Resources

For enthusiasts and owners of McLaren vehicles, understanding the brand's offerings and performance is essential. McLaren has a total of 104 vehicles registered in the UK, with the most popular model being the 720S V8 S-A, accounting for 18 registrations. Other notable models include the 570 and the MP4-12C, with 12 and 4 registrations respectively.

In terms of fuel types, the majority of McLaren vehicles run on petrol, with a distribution of 64 petrol and 34 PETROL registrations, alongside a small number of diesel and hybrid electric vehicles. This highlights McLaren's focus on high-performance petrol engines, which are synonymous with the brand's racing heritage.

When considering the age of McLaren vehicles, the year distribution shows a range of models from 1914 to 2025, with the most recent registrations being from 2024 (6 vehicles) and 2023 (9 vehicles). This diverse age range reflects the brand's long-standing presence in the automotive market.

McLaren vehicles have an impressive average MOT pass rate of 93.7%, indicating a high level of reliability and performance. However, common failures do occur, with categories such as 'Other' (6 failures), 'Suspension' (4 failures), and 'Exhaust & Emissions' (3 failures) being the most frequently reported issues.

For those looking to delve deeper into McLaren ownership, it is advisable to consult resources such as the official McLaren website, automotive forums, and dedicated car enthusiast groups. These platforms can provide valuable insights and support for current and prospective owners.

Please note that the data presented here is based on the latest available statistics and may be subject to change. Always verify information through official channels.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of thousands of MCLAREN vehicles in our database, including MOT test results, registration data, and reliability statistics.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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