McLaren has announced a package of enhancements that will make its MP4-12C high performance sports car even more invigorating to drive.

Headlining the changes is an 18kW power increase. It takes the maximum output of the mid-mounted, twin turbocharged V8 engine to 459kW to give yet more vivid acceleration at track speeds with no loss in efficiency.

Modifications have been made by McLaren's engineers to the 12C's 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine and SSG transmission. Ease of use is further improved through a host of detail changes while a wider variety of paint, leather and wheel options give customers yet more scope for personalisation.  

The 12C's unique Intake Sound Generator (ISG) system, which controls the amount of engine intake sound heard in the cabin, is now programmable across three levels in all three Powertrain modes, allowing the driver to select the amount of aural drama he or she wants to enjoy, whatever the road. The 12C's styling remains unchanged - apart from a subtle revision to the McLaren Speed Marque badge.

Customers who have already taken delivery of a 12C are not being neglected... Every 12C owner is being offered a package of upgrades, including the extra 18kW, at no cost.  

Antony Sheriff, McLaren Automotive Managing Director said: "Given our racing heritage, it is in our nature to continuously seek out improvements. The team at McLaren Automotive recognises that our existing and future customers deserve the very best product and service we can offer, and the launch of the enhanced 12C reaffirms its position as the most powerful luxury sports car among its competitor set.

"We designed and engineered the 12C from a clean sheet of paper, and I am delighted with the innovative technology package created for our first sports car. Our customers love driving a car with technologies and systems that have proved successful in Formula 1 and which create an incredible driving experience in a unique new high performance sports car. New and existing customers will now enjoy an even better experience thanks to the upgrades."

A new door entry system is a feature of the new 12C. A small button mounted on each door replaces the 12C's touch sensor system. In line with customer feedback, this modification is intended to simplify the user experience. The ability to unlatch each door using the 12C key fob will be retained.

To improve safety, an enhancement will be made to the headlight activation settings of the 12C. With the "auto-lights" mode selected, the 12C's headlights will be automatically switched on when rain is detected by the windshield-mounted rain sensor.

The 12C's Climate Control System will be modified exclusively for 2013 models. In addition to the standard auto function of the system; new cars will be supplied with systems inclusive of "auto lo" functionality. This new setting enables the desired cabin temperature to be reached in the quietest way possible, using lower fan speeds.

Vehicle Lift will be available as an option on 2013 model year vehicles. The system allows the 12C to be raised front and rear for improved ground clearance. This technology permits the vehicle to be raised by up to 40mm at the front and 25mm at the rear, and may remain in position at up to 60km/h.