LEAKED: McLaren 720S caught undisguised

McLaren's replacement for its 650S, codenamed internally as the P14 but set to be called the 720S, has been leaked online six weeks ahead of its official launch at the Geneva motor show.

The leaked pic of an undisguised 720S follows two official teases of the new Super Series McLaren that have included releasing pics of its all-new monocoque and previewing its complex rear spoiler that hints at advanced new aero aids.

Now it seems the teasing will stop following Instagram user lamborghininiks posting this picture of a completely undisguised 720S after attending a VIP customer event in Palm Beach, California.

McLaren has chosen not to comment officially on the picture. Nor has it confirmed any technical details of how the P14 differs over the 650S it replaces.

From the single image it's clear there has been a radical departure from the current car's design and aero design, with a far smoother body and no air intakes to feed its turbo V8.

Despite this, it's almost certain the new car will produce more downforce and less drag than the current 650S.

What we know so far is the 720S's ‘Monocage II’ carbon-fibre structure is both stronger and lighter than the firm’s current architecture.

The British supercar maker has already confirmed the P14 will weigh in at 1283kg (dry) – 18kg less than the old car – and a substantial 87kg less than its closest rival, the Ferrari 488 GTB.

As well as lighter and more rigid, the redesigned carbon backbone of the P14 has also been developed to incorporate a wider cabin entrance with a lower sill.

It’s also been reported that a new T-bar shaped roof will help McLaren extend its trademark dihedral doors to pay homage to the original F1 road car’s iconic doors.

All Super Series models will continue to come powered with a development of the current car’s twin-turbo 3.8-litre V8 but with power boosted to 720hp (+30kW). Hence the '720S' name.

With more power and less weight, the 720S is likely to set a new performance benchmark for its class with a 0-100km/h time of comfortably less than 3.0 seconds. And with less drag, the McLaren's top speed is expected to be around 340km/h.

Inside, the current car’s minimalist interior is anticipated to be updated with a new dash and infotainment system.

The arrival of the P14 kick starts the British supercar maker’s ambitious Track22 business plan that will see McLaren launch 15 new models by 2022.

Once the new P14 coupe is launched a convertible will follow 12 months later, featuring a modified version of the current 650S Spider’s folding retractable hardtop.

Around 12 months after that a lighter, more powerful 675LT-replacement is expected that will offer near P1-levels of performance.