Let’s just say that he was impressed, but with reservations.
The McLaren Artura hybrid is the first in series production. The McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture was also unveiled, specifically designed to accommodate hybrid powertrains. McLaren’s superformed aluminium and carbon fiber allowed McLaren to keep Artura’s weight down while maintaining its shapely proportions.
What does the Artura’s design look like in the eyes Frank Stephenson, former McLaren design chief? Stephenson was the Design Manager at McLaren Automotive From 2008 to 2017, he developed a new design language and created the McLarens range, including the MP4-12C and P1, 675LT and 570S.
720S Stephenson gave the Artura high marks for its stunning design, and progressive appearances, based on the embedded video. The new supercar was well-received by Stephenson. He particularly liked the Artura’s rear profile and what he called the “money shot”.
The McLaren’s newest model was not all praises. Stephenson was critical of the name and felt strongly about certain parts of the McLaren, such as the recessed area near the headlights and the DRLs that are short and the air vents at the front fenders.
Stephenson had other design suggestions, but we won’t go into them. Stephenson gave the Artura an overall score of 8.5 out 10 because he views it as an evolution of the McLaren. Stephenson left no room for future refinements.