As expected, McLaren Automotive revealed at Shanghai Motor Show a new version of the 570S tailored for the Asian market. It is called the McLaren 540C and it complements the firm’s ‘discount’ lineup which so far consists this and the McLaren 625C. The 540C, however, will be available globally.

The most affordable McLaren car ever starts at £126,000 when it hits the showrooms in early 2016 and offers the same sort of looks as the £145,000 570S. Where the ‘discount’ bit is at work is under the bonnet where instead of 570 horsepower, the 3.8 liter bi-turbo V8 is set at 540 PS and 540 Nm of torque.

That is still enough power to take the McLaren 540C from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.5 seconds and top speed of 320km/h (199mph). So the 540 is still a proper supercar. What’s more, it comes with stop-start technology which helps it achieve an average fuel consumption figure of 25.5 mpg. It is a well-rounded and well-thought-out car, the 540C.

The biggest problem with this car is that for just 20 grand you are going to label yourself a cheapskate, or someone who can’t afford a full-fat 570 model, neither of which is cool. People see the 540 badge and realize you are the kind of person who likes a bargain, which is what McLaren 540C.