2012 McLaren MP4-12C Avoids Gas-Guzzler Tax, Set for January Sale in U.S.

WASHINGTON — In an unusual accomplishment for a supercar, the 592-horsepower 2012 McLaren MP4-12C has managed to avoid the punitive federal gas-guzzler tax and build up a little green cred, according to the EPA. But it is still working out the kinks in terms of "quality issues" and told Inside Line that the launch of the MP4-12C has been delayed until early January in the U.S.

The EPA Web site says the 2012 McLaren MP4-12C returns 15 mpg in city driving and 22 mpg on the highway and has no gas-guzzler tax.

In comparison, the EPA says the 2012 Aston Martin Rapide returns 13 mpg in city driving and 19 mpg on the highway, while the 2012 Lamborghini Aventador returns 11 mpg in city driving and 17 mpg on the highway. Both cars are subject to the federal gas-guzzler tax, according to the EPA.

"It was a big achievement," said Tony Joseph, director of McLaren's North American Operation, in a phone conversation with Inside Line. "(Gas prices) are not a buying consideration, but it allows us to say we're an innovative company."

The MP4-12C is equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8.

Joseph said the MP4-12C will go on sale in the U.S. in January, a delay of several months. The car was initially slated to go on sale here in late summer.

"We've had minor issues, mostly electrical," he explained. "We have a fix for all of the issues. When they launched the car in Europe and the U.K., the initial cars had some quality issues."

He said the car is sold out globally through next year. Approximately 500 units are earmarked for the U.S.

Joseph said that the "majority of customers are male, mostly sports-car enthusiasts." He confirmed that comedian Jay Leno, who is buying an MP4-12C, will be one of the first customers in the U.S. to take delivery of the car.

The AAA Daily Fuel Gauge reports that the average price for a gallon of unleaded gasoline stood at $3.43 here on Wednesday.

Inside Line says: You'll apparently save a little in taxes and at the pump if you spring for the McLaren MP4-12C.