McLaren to Retire Artura by 2028 as SUV and P34 Launches Reshape Lineup
McLaren is reportedly planning to discontinue the Artura hybrid supercar in 2028, six years after its delayed launch. The move coincides with the introduction of a new hybrid coupe, codenamed P34, and the brand’s first SUV, aimed at expanding sales beyond traditional supercar buyers. The Financial Times and The Guardian report that this strategic shift is part of a £500m investment plan by Abu Dhabi owner L’Imad to end years of losses and create 1,000 UK jobs. While the Artura suffered from quality issues and production halts in 2022, the new lineup aims to capture market share from rivals like Ferrari and Lamborghini. McLaren has not officially confirmed the Artura’s retirement, but the timing suggests a deliberate reshuffling of its product range under CEO Nick Collins.
Key points
- McLaren plans to discontinue the Artura in 2028, according to Automotive News.
- A new hybrid coupe, codenamed P34, is expected to launch in 2027 with over 800 hp.
- McLaren will launch its first SUV to compete with the Bentley Bentayga and Lamborghini Urus.
- The Financial Times reports the SUV launch is part of a £500m investment to end losses.
- The Guardian notes the SUV targets Formula One fans who cannot use two-seater sports cars.
Background
The Artura, launched in 2022, faced significant delays and quality issues, leading to a temporary halt in deliveries. Former CEO Michael Leiters acknowledged the car was not mature enough at launch. McLaren has since invested in fixing quality problems, but the model’s short lifespan may reflect a strategic pivot. The company’s recent takeover by CYVN Holdings (now L’Imad) and merger with Forseven Holdings have reshaped its financial and product strategy, focusing on hybrid and internal combustion engines rather than immediate EVs.
How outlets are covering it
Motor1.com emphasizes the Artura’s troubled launch and the potential replacement by the P34, suggesting the discontinuation is a natural evolution rather than a cancellation. The Financial Times focuses on the financial turnaround, highlighting the £500m investment and the need to increase sales volume to justify a new UK plant. The Guardian highlights the marketing angle, noting that the SUV targets wealthy Formula One fans who cannot use two-seater supercars for family needs. All sources agree that the SUV and P34 are central to McLaren’s future growth, but they differ in emphasis: Motor1 on product lifecycle, the FT on financial stability, and The Guardian on market expansion.
Why it matters
The potential discontinuation of the Artura and the launch of an SUV mark a significant shift in McLaren’s strategy, moving from a niche supercar maker to a broader luxury brand. This move could impact sales volumes and profitability, as the company seeks to end years of losses. The decision also reflects the broader industry trend of luxury brands expanding into SUVs to capture new markets, while balancing the transition to hybrid and electric powertrains.
What to watch
McLaren is expected to launch the P34 hybrid coupe in 2027 and the first SUV in the next few years. The company plans to build a new assembly plant in the UK, with Sheffield being a preferred site. McLaren has not confirmed the Artura’s 2028 retirement, but the timing of the new launches suggests a deliberate reshuffling of its lineup. The company will also continue to invest in carbon fiber capabilities and in-house engine and transmission design.
- The McLaren Artura Is Dying: Report Motor1.com
- McLaren to drop Artura hybrid that had troubled launch Automotive News
- McLaren Confirms It’s Working on Its First SUV and Announces a Massive Investment in U.K. Production Car and Driver
- McLaren to compete against Lamborghini and Ferrari with its first SUV Financial Times
- McLaren to build SUVs geared towards Formula One fans with children The Guardian
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