McLaren CEO Confirms New Model with More Seats: Could This Be Their Cayenne Moment?

McLaren is preparing for a major shift. The brand’s new CEO has confirmed that a more practical model with extra seating is on the way, signaling a potential game-changer for the legendary British automaker.

Unlike rivals Ferrari and Lamborghini, McLaren has resisted the SUV trend, staying loyal to lightweight supercars and track-focused machines. But profitability in today’s market is tough with niche, low-volume exotics. That’s why CEO Nick Collins revealed that McLaren is preparing to enter new segments with “something offering more than two seats.” While not yet confirmed as an SUV, industry insiders see this as the logical next step for the company.

Collins explained that McLaren’s long-term roadmap runs through 2030, including plans that expand beyond traditional supercars. With its new ownership under CYVN and a merger with British EV startup Forseven, McLaren now has access to advanced electric powertrain technology–possibly paving the way for its first electric SUV or a hybrid model.

A Practical McLaren SUV Could Be Electric

There are strong signs the upcoming McLaren will be an SUV with electrification in its DNA. CYVN’s stake in Chinese EV giant Nio gives McLaren direct access to proven battery platforms and propulsion systems. At the same time, Forseven engineers had previously developed plans for a luxury electric vehicle in the Range Rover mold. This combination could provide the foundation for McLaren’s first-ever family-friendly performance SUV.

Why an SUV Could Secure McLaren’s Future

If McLaren takes this step, it wouldn’t be the first time a supercar brand turned to SUVs for stability. Porsche’s financial future was transformed by the Cayenne in 2002, and Bentley’s Bentayga has been its best-selling model since 2015. A McLaren SUV could play the same role, delivering financial strength while still funding the next generation of supercars.

For now, details remain scarce, but Collins made one thing clear: McLaren won’t abandon performance or innovation. Instead, the brand is preparing to evolve. And with an SUV potentially joining the lineup, this might be McLaren’s most strategic move since its founding.