McLaren McL 6GT concept: brand's first manual since the F1

McLaren has revealed the McL 6GT concept at the 2026 Monterey Car Week. Inspired by Bruce McLaren's unfinished M6GT road car project from the late 1960s, it previews a production model due in 2028 and becomes the first McLaren since the F1 to feature a manual transmission.

1. First manual McLaren since the F1 launched in 1992
2. Inspired by Bruce McLaren's original M6GT road car
3. Production version confirmed for launch in 2028

McLaren McL 6GT exterior

The McL 6GT takes inspiration from the original M6GT, the road-going version of the M6A Can-Am race car that Bruce McLaren had intended to build before the project was abandoned. The concept combines classic proportions with a contemporary design, featuring a low nose, wide stance, clean surfacing and a Kammback-style rear. McLaren says the car has been developed to honour the original M6GT while previewing a future low-volume production model.

The concept is built around a carbon-fibre monocoque with carbon-fibre body panels. Other design details include a new "Racing Loop" tail-light signature, Bruce McLaren's signature on the engine cover and the historic Speedy Kiwi emblem engraved into the fuel filler cap.

McLaren McL 6GT interior

The cabin combines modern technology with design cues inspired by the original M6GT. It features a digital instrument display, machined aluminium controls, exposed carbon-fibre trim and upholstery patterned after the quilted seats of Bruce McLaren's road car. Physical switchgear has been retained throughout, while the manual gear lever incorporates a three-dimensional Speedy Kiwi emblem. McLaren says the interior has been designed to prioritise driver engagement while maintaining the simplicity of the original M6GT.

McLaren McL 6GT powertrain

Power comes from a rear-mounted V8 petrol engine paired with a manual transmission, driving the rear wheels. It is the first McLaren road car to offer a manual gearbox since the F1, which was introduced in 1992. The company has not disclosed engine output, displacement or performance figures.

McLaren says the McL 6GT has been engineered to deliver a more mechanical driving experience, with hydraulic steering, traditional controls and a manual gearshift forming the core of the driving experience.

McLaren McL 6GT production

McLaren has confirmed that the McL 6GT will enter production in 2028 as a low-volume model positioned outside the brand's core product range. It joins the company's growing line-up of limited-production models inspired by its history, although pricing and production numbers have not yet been announced.