McLaren Kills the 12C in Favor of 650S, Offers Free Upgrades to Existing 12C Owners

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Last week, we went to Spain to drive the sensational McLaren 650S, which is basically a refreshed and improved version of McLaren’s already pretty awesome 12C. It’s so much better, in fact, that we wondered aloud about the future of the 12C itself, which the company had stopped producing for the moment but said it would restart production once it could satisfy demand for the 650S. Today, McLaren sent us a statement, and here’s how it read:

“When you joined us in Ascari to drive 650S, we told you that we were monitoring reaction to the car from our customers—and you, the media—before making any decision on recommencing production of 12C. Well, you all seemed to like the car and with regional launch events ongoing our customers do as well—global demand is now 100 percent in favor of 650S and MPC is working through a six-month order bank. The decision, therefore, has been taken not to recommence production of 12C.”

Already have a 12C? Well, merry Christmas in in June! That’ll be when 12C owners can take their cars in for a free “650S-inspired” Technology Upgrade for the 12C, which includes enhanced active aerodynamics that engages the air brake more frequently, DRS operation, improves functionality and usability of the Android-based IRIS infotainment system, and for 2013 and later 12C models with door buttons, external control for the door windows to help access in confined spaces. McLaren is also making a backup camera and satellite radio available to 12C owners as an option.

• First Drive: 2015 McLaren 650S Coupe / Spider
• First Drive: 2014 McLaren P1
• Chasing Perfection: 1000 Miles in the McLaren 12C

Two encouraging messages here: One, McLaren appears to be responsive to customer and media input when making decisions about its future products; and two, it doesn’t forget its current owners after they buy one.

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