McLaren MP4-12C: New Online Configurator Launches

Just the Facts:

• McLaren launches a new online configurator for the MP4-12C.
• F1 drivers Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton describe the configurator in a video.
• Beginning in May, the configurator will link to 35 retail outlets in 19 countries.

WOKING, England — McLaren Automotive is trying to ease the pain for sports fans who can't wait for the showroom debut of the new MP4-12C. The British supercar manufacturer has launched a new online configurator.

McLaren also has recruited F1 aces Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton to introduce the configurator in an amusing video:

Button, the 2009 F1 World Champion (and winner of last week's Australian GP), and Hamilton, the 2008 F1 champ, spec their individual 12Cs online and walk wannabes through the procedure.

Once retail stores are appointed, beginning in May, the configurator will link to 35 retail outlets in 19 countries.

Among the options on the 12C are 31 exterior paint finishes, including the original McLaren Orange that graced the racing firm's stable in the '60s and '70s. There are plenty of additional choices in the cockpit, including leather, Alcantara and carbon fiber, as well as a host of entertainment/media hardware.

Performance upgrades include carbon-ceramic brakes, polished calipers, forged alloy rims and a lightweight sport exhaust system.

Inside Line says: We haven't had this much fun at the laptop since fiddling around with the Bugatti configurator. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent