McLaren to axe the 12C

McLaren will stop selling the now entry-level supercar due to demand for its latest model and will be offering existing owners a free technology upgrade package.

When the 12C launched in 2011 it lacked a little bit of personality, but other than that it was an astonishing car to drive: as fast as a Ferrari, yet, thanks to an ingenious suspension system, as comfortable as a big Mercedes. And, for those that wanted even more drama and spectacle, there was a convertible version, too.

However, after 3500 units, McLaren is ceasing production because its latest car, the 650S -- officially launched exactly one month ago at the Geneva Motor Show -- is proving such a hit. McLaren already has six months' worth of orders for the new car, which combines elements of the C12 with elements of the company's flagship P1 hypercar.

Initially the company indicated that the 12C would stay in production but work would be put on hold while the first 650S models were built, but in an official statement, McLaren reveals that it has now changed its mind, describing the decision as a natural evolution of the model lineup.

The 650 S is much more aggressively styled than the 12C and also has faster acceleration and a higher top speed. Its official figures are 0-62mph (100km/h) in just 3 seconds, a 0-125mph (200km/h) time of 8.4 seconds. And of course, as is now obligatory for all self-respecting supercars, a top speed in excess of 200mph. However, the biggest number is 3,000,000, the amount of dollars required to snap one up.

Meanwhile, 12C owners will be offered a free technology upgrade that will lower the car's wing to improve performance and will boost the car's infotainment system. A selection of cost options including a reversing camera will also be offered.

Earlier this week, McLaren all but confirmed that a track-focused version of the 650S is in the works, which will be even faster and even more aggressive and also said that its upcoming Porsche 911 competitor, the P13 will be offered as a road-focused or track-focused model when it finally goes into production. However, McLaren is yet to even reveal the concept version of that model.