McLaren’s 788HS Marks Final Chapter for 720S Supercar Series

McLaren has introduced the new 788HS, the final evolution of its multi-award-winning supercar lineage that began with the 720S and evolved through the 765LT and 750S.

The 788HS features a 777-bhp 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8, which combines with a 2,789-pound dry weight to deliver a power-to-weight of 614 bhp per tonne, the highest achieved by any model in the 720S, 750S and 765LT series. When coupled with the unique aerodynamic package, amplified exterior design cues and personalization possibilities, the result is heightened performance on track, even greater engagement on the road, and the chance for each client to celebrate the car’s era-defining lineage in their own way using the expertise of McLaren Special Operations (MSO), company officials stated in a press release.

The McLaren 788HS wears the “High Sport” designation reserved only for the most special expressions of a series production McLaren. Until now, this rare badge has only appeared on two previous McLarens: the MP4-12C HS and the MSO HS.

“The new McLaren 788HS has been designed and engineered with a singular focus: to deliver a visceral experience and captivating drive through its precise balance of performance, sound, dynamism and individuality,” said Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer, chief commercial officer, McLaren Automotive. “It represents the ultimate expression of our supercar series that began with the 720S and becomes only the third McLaren to wear our HS designation—a fitting finale for a much-loved and critically acclaimed car.”

Aerodynamics & Exterior Design Upgrades

The McLaren 788HS features sculpted bodywork elements that provide the most advanced aerodynamic package ever applied to the platform, increasing downforce by 10% over the 765LT, with uncompromised vehicle dynamics and balance, noted the release.

The aerodynamic concept centers around a new S-Duct bonnet, a raised active rear spoiler and an intricate Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser. Working in combination with a bespoke front splitter, these elements enhance stability and performance. The louvred under-wing panel further supports powertrain cooling and aerodynamic efficiency.

Gloss black exterior accents include a roof scoop on Coupe derivatives, and clients can opt for full Visual Carbon Fiber bodywork—encompassing every exterior panel—highlighting the car’s lightweight construction.

The driver-centric cabin layout includes a lightweight carbon-fiber center console. The cabin also features bespoke HS branding with a unique perforation pattern for the upholstery and a dedication plaque.

Powertrain & Chassis Performance

The heart of the 788HS is McLaren’s M840T 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8, which revs to 8,500 rpm and develops peak power at 7,500 rpm. With 590 pound-feet (800Nm) of torque, it delivers immediate response and sustained acceleration, from 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds, 0-124 mph in 7.0 seconds, to a top speed of 205 mph. A unique engine mount calibration for 788HS delivers heightened engagement and connection between powertrain and driver without compromising long-distance usability, the company said.

Proactive Chassis Control III linked-hydraulic suspension system with bespoke suspension tuning delivers even higher levels of dynamic performance. The 788HS also features a 5mm lower front ride height than the 750S, for a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.

Braking performance is enhanced through carbon ceramic discs derived from the McLaren Senna, with black six-piston forged aluminum monoblock front calipers and integrated cooling for sustained high-performance use. The 788HS also introduces the first center-lock wheel mechanism ever fitted to this supercar series, in combination with a new Super Lightweight Forged Alloy wheel.

The quad-exit titanium exhaust system amplifies the V-8’s distinctive soundtrack, with more intensity throughout the rev range, while carefully engineered induction and exhaust sound symposer technologies immerse occupants in the unmistakable soundtrack of McLaren’s twin-turbocharged V-8.

Technical Highlights of 788HS

Powertrain

• 4.0-liter M840T twin-turbocharged V8 engine
• Lightweight forged pistons
• Ultra-low inertia twin scroll turbochargers
• Twin fuel pumps
• Peak power output of 777 bhp (788PS) at 7,500 rpm
• Peak torque of 590 pound-feet (800Nm) at 5,500 rpm

Lightweight Engineering

• Carbon-fiber monocoque chassis
• High-performance, lightweight materials throughout with advanced carbon-fiber technologies for body components
• New HS aerodynamic package, all in carbon fiber
• Lightweight interior components
• Dry weight of 2,789 pounds
• Power-to-weight ratio of 614 bhp-per-tonne, the highest in this supercar series
• Optional full visual carbon-fiber body available in gloss or satin finishes

Aerodynamics

• Multi-zone front splitter
• S-Duct bonnet
• Raised active rear spoiler
• Louvred under wing panel
• Formula 1-inspired diffuser with 10% increase in downforce compared with McLaren 765LT

Chassis & Suspension

• Linked-hydraulic Proactive Chassis Control III suspension system
• Bespoke suspension calibration
• Adaptive dampers
• Front ride height lowered by 5mm versus 750S
• Enhanced body control, precision and responsiveness

Braking System

• Carbon ceramic brake discs derived from McLaren Senna
• Six-piston forged aluminum monoblock front calipers
• Racing-inspired integrated brake caliper cooling ducts
• Enhanced pedal feel and stopping performance
• Improved consistency during sustained high-performance driving

Wheels

• New Super Lightweight Forged Alloy wheel design
• Center-lock wheel fixing system

Driver Engagement

• Revised quad-exit titanium exhaust system
• Unique engine mount calibration
• Heightened connection between powertrain and driver
• Maintains long-distance usability

Exhaust & Sound

• Quad-exit titanium exhaust system
• Enhanced start-up character
• Richer and more intense sound at higher engine speeds
• Revised induction and exhaust symposer technologies
• Twin-turbocharged V-8 soundtrack

Driver Focused Technology

• Steering column-mounted instrument binnacle
• Steering wheel-mounted Powertrain and Handling mode controls
• McLaren Infotainment System II
• McLaren Control Launcher (MCL)
• Lightweight carbon-fiber center console