Aussies lining up for McLaren's new supercar

Demand for the MP4 12C, McLaren's first self-designed road car, has surprised the carmaker itself. Photo / Supplied

More than 30 Australians plonked down deposits for the McLaren MP4 12C supercar after the opening stage of the carmaker's roadshow Downunder.

Australia and New Zealand's exclusive McLaren dealership - Sydney dealer group Trivett Classic - has already sold all 15 examples earmarked for this part of the world this year and at least half of the 30 to 40 allocated for New Zealand and Australia next year.

The first cars will arrive across the ditch after October, priced at about A$500,000 ($665,000) after import duty and luxury taxes. The MP4 12C retails for £168,500 ($360,000) in Britain.

There has been no word on sales to New Zealand but demand in Australia for McLaren's first self-designed road car has surprised the carmaker itself.

"It's unusual," said Ian Gorsuch, McLaren Automotive's regional director for the Middle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific. "In Australia it seems people are keen to get in early ... which is wonderful."

The MP4 12C is powered by a turbocharged 3.8-litre V8 engine delivering 441k/600Nm and a zero to 100km/h sprint time of 3.5sec - or 3.1sec on optional Pirelli Corsa tyres.