SUPERCAR performance has been given a power boost with a new series of refinements from F1 icon McLaren.

The Woking firm says its MP4-12C model will, from this autumn, become even more invigorating to drive yet easier to live with.

And if you're already lucky enough to own one of the £168,500 speedsters then rest assured you will get a complimentary upgrade to the latest spec.

Headlining the changes is a power increase which takes the maximum output of the twin turbocharged V8 engine to a whopping 616bhp for astonishing acceleration of 0-62mph in 3.1 seconds, 0-124 in 8.8 seconds, 0-186 in 26.5 and allowing the potential for 207mph.

Sedate urban driving can officially return 15 miles per gallon and on the Combined cycle it rises to a very respectable 24.2.

The modifications have been made by McLaren's engineers to the 12C's engine and seven-speed SSG transmission while ease of use - a phrase not often associated with cars of this type - is further improved through detail changes.

They include the car's soundtrack which can now be tuned via the car's Intake Sound Generator system, which controls the amount of engine intake heard in the cabin.

In addition a wider variety of paint, leather and wheel options gives customers yet more scope for personalisation and there's now an Easy Exit electric seat function.

One aspect that hasn't changed is the 12C's supermodel styling - apart from a subtle revision to the McLaren Speed Marque badge.

The order book is open now ahead of an October launch and prices are from £176,000, which is a £7,500 hike on the current car's tab.

McLaren chief Antony Sheriff said: "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.