Used McLaren 540C for Sale

Used McLaren 540C for sale

The McLaren 540C is a striking supercar designed for drivers who want everyday usability with head-turning looks.

Used McLaren 540C

Famous for its light carbon fibre construction and punchy V8, the 540C blends stunning speed with a surprising level of comfort for its class. As McLaren's most affordable offering, the 540C offers all the supercar drama you could want but with an eye on everyday practicality. First launched in 2015 as part of the brand's Sports Series, every model uses a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8, delivering 533bhp and a 0-62mph time of 3.5 seconds. Compared to rivals like the Porsche 911 Turbo and Audi R8, the 540C stands out for balancing power and aggressive styling with supportive seats, a comfortable cabin, and a ride quality that surprises for a car of this calibre. A decent-sized front boot and a clear digital dash round out practical appointments, making it a rare performance car that's practical for weekends and driving about town.

Pros

Incredible acceleration and handling
Everyday usability for a supercar
Attention-grabbing styling

Cons

Running costs are high
Limited advanced safety tech
Less practical than some rivals

What are the key safety features of the McLaren 540C?

The McLaren 540C is built around a carbon-fibre 'MonoCell II' safety cell for excellent crash protection. It comes with stability control and multiple airbags, but you won't find advanced tech like lane-keeping assist or autonomous emergency braking. Other tech such as rear parking sensors and a camera are available as optional extras.
What engine options are available with the McLaren 540C?

All McLaren 540C models come with a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine, producing 533bhp and 540Nm of torque. There are no alternative engine choices or hybrid versions – every 540C was built to the same performance specification from 2015 until production ended in 2021.
What are the standard technology and infotainment features in the McLaren 540C?

The 540C features McLaren's vertical touchscreen IRIS infotainment system as standard, with sat-nav, Bluetooth and DAB radio, as well as a digital display instrument panel. A basic four-speaker audio is standard, but higher-spec audio and options like a rear camera or parking sensors can be found on many used examples.
What is the fuel consumption of the McLaren 540C?

The official combined fuel economy is up to 25.5mpg, which is on par with other supercars in its class. Real-world figures can be lower, especially if you make full use of its power. CO2 emissions are 258g/km, which means you can expect a fairly high annual road tax in the UK.
What should I check when buying a used McLaren 540C?

Look for signs of paint or bodywork repairs, as low sports cars are vulnerable to scrapes. It's always important to check the service history – especially for cars like this that require specialist care. Have a look at all the tech to make sure it's in working order, and consider a full inspection through The AA Vehicle Inspection for peace of mind.
Are McLaren 540C cars reliable?

The 540C uses a well-proven engine, and many issues have been addressed since early McLaren road models. Build quality is solid, though ownership costs are high, and regular maintenance is essential. Reports suggest good reliability if the car is well looked after.