A grand tourer created by McLaren – one wouldn’t expect the ordinary, and so it proves with the McLaren GT. It has the performance of a spectacular supercar combined with remarkable everyday usability.

Quicker and lighter than anything in its class, the McLaren GT has the marque’s bespoke ultralight carbon fibre MonoCell II-T and a 4.0l twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which is mid-mounted for optimum weight distribution.

The performance statistics are impressive – 0-100kph in 32 seconds and a top speed of 328kph – but as with all things McLaren there is so much more behind the numbers. For example, the unique upper structure has a clamshell design that that creates space for a larger rear luggage bay – with enough room for a set of golf clubs or a pair of skis, for instance.

There is innovation throughout the vehicle, none more impressive than the Optimal Control Theory software. Capable of learning with every journey, this remarkable software, developed by McLaren-led research at the University of Cambridge, reads the road and responds with lightning-quick speed to changing conditions.

Inside the McLaren GT is a lesson in style and functionality. The interior is airy and light, aided by a huge windscreen and glazed tailgate and C-pillars. The floating central console adds to the sense of freedom at the wheel. An intuitive infotainment system provides an additional bonus and enhances the driving experience.

This experience is a smooth and refined one – select Comfort Mode on the Active Dynamics Panel and the driver is offered a Quiet Start option for a discreet getaway. At high speed, a softer exhaust note is emitted, while bespoke Pirelli tyres possess unique Noise Cancelling Technology. Yet, the raw energy and power of a McLaren are still there in Sport or Track mode, for the racer in all of us.

The GT is McLaren to its core but a very special, unique vehicle in its own right.