McLaren 788HS: the final and most powerful evolution of the 700-series supercars

McLaren has unveiled the limited-edition, mid-engined 788HS supercar from its special projects division, MSO (McLaren Special Operations). The main highlight of this model is its lightness (dry weight of just 1,265 kg) combined with a powerful 788-horsepower V8 engine.

In 2017, McLaren introduced the 720S, the progenitor of the new family of mid-engined V8 supercars. In 2020, the 'long-tail' McLaren 765LT arrived, in 2023 the McLaren 720S was replaced by the more powerful and faster 750S, and today the McLaren 788HS has been unveiled — the last in the 700 series. The letters HS in the name stand for High Sport. What will succeed the 700 series remains unknown — most likely, it will be a supercar with a hybrid powertrain, meaning a heavier one.

The McLaren 788HS is a supercar that is very light by modern standards, with a dry weight of 1,265 kg. Its body features the most sophisticated carbon-fibre aerodynamic package in the 700 series, including a unique S-shaped air duct in the central section of the front end, a multi-channel front splitter, a developed rear diffuser inspired by Formula 1 cars, a tall active rear wing, and a ventilation mesh for the engine bay beneath it.

The McLaren 788HS is fitted with the most powerful version of the 4.0-litre petrol bi-turbo V8 M840T engine: here it produces 788 hp at 7,500 rpm and 800 Nm at 5,500 rpm, with a maximum crankshaft speed of 8,500 rpm. All power is sent to the rear wheels via a robotic 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The engine features new 'sensitive' mounts and a new titanium exhaust system with a dramatic sound, designed to maximise the driver's emotional engagement in the driving experience.

The ride height of the McLaren 788HS has been reduced by 5 mm compared with the 750S model, and the suspension with adaptive dampers has been recalibrated for more precise and stable handling. The powerful carbon-ceramic brakes are borrowed from the McLaren Senna supercar. Lightweight forged wheels, a first for 700-series supercars, are secured to the hubs with a central locking nut.

The interior of the McLaren 788HS is largely standard, but with a lightweight central console, and the trim will be tailored individually to each customer by MSO specialists.

The McLaren 788HS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, from 0 to 200 km/h in 7.0 seconds, and has a top speed of 330 km/h.

McLaren will produce only 200 examples of the 788HS supercar, with the production run split equally between coupé and convertible body styles. The minimum price is £450,000, and this can be significantly increased depending on the customer's specific requirements.