McLaren Confirms Long‑Rumored SUV as Part of £500m UK Expansion

McLaren has officially greenlit a long‑rumored SUV project, announcing the move alongside a £500 million ($674 million) investment intended to expand its UK manufacturing capacity and create at least 1,000 jobs by 2032. The confirmation marks a major strategic shift for the marque, which resisted SUV development a decade ago.

The automaker says the new programme will be supported by a distinct British assembly plant, separate from its Woking operations, that will be capable of producing the next generation of McLaren models — including what the company called “a performance SUV.”

Production, plant and powertrains

Details remain limited, but McLaren’s chief operating officer Michael Straughan told Autocar the crossover is being considered around a carbon fibre tub similar to that used in the marque’s supercars. The company also indicated the SUV is slated to arrive before 2030 and may lead to additional front‑engined, all‑wheel‑drive models.

In a further sign of retooling, McLaren revealed it will bring engine design and production in‑house, ending a relationship with Ricardo. The firm said two new hybrid engines and associated transmissions are already under development.

Management has changed since the era when former CEO Mike Flewitt dismissed SUV plans. Current CEO Michael Leiters, who previously worked at Ferrari and Porsche and had roles on projects such as the Cayenne and Purosangue, has been more receptive to the concept.

Industry context underlines the rationale for the move. McLaren produced about 2,000 cars in 2025, while Ferrari is estimated to build up to 3,000 Purosangues annually and the Lamborghini Urus sells roughly double that figure. McLaren’s entry into the high‑riding luxury segment would pit it directly against the Ferrari Purosangue and Aston Martin DBX.

There have been dealer reports and leaks of a prototype resembling a beefed‑up Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT on large wheels, but McLaren has released few official images or specifications to date.

With the announced investment earmarked for manufacturing expansion and powertrain development, McLaren appears to be repositioning itself to chase higher volumes while attempting to retain its performance DNA. The full shape and driving character of the upcoming SUV, however, will remain speculative until the company releases further technical and visual details.