How better to get under the skin of the McLaren MP4-12C than a big road trip? It's fair to say McLaren's mid-engined supercar has had a tough time of it since its reveal in 2009, its arrival at the same time as Ferrari's almighty 458 Italia certainly not helping matters. There's been criticism of the 12C's snatchy brakes and lack of emotion compared to nape-prickling rivals.

But what were features editor Henry Catchpole's thoughts after a number of days of solid driving? A trip through France - via the historic Reims start/finish straight, a snowy col and culminating on the iconic streets of Monaco - ought to be a great test of the McLaren's mettle