McLaren’s iconic V8 supercar line concludes its decade-long journey with the introduction of the new 788HS, a track-oriented masterpiece created by McLaren Special Operations (MSO).
This marks the end of a lineage that began with the 720S in 2017, evolved through the 765LT — which finished second in Autocar’s 2020 Britain’s Best Driver’s Car competition — and most recently culminated in the 750S unveiled in 2024.
The ‘High Sport’ edition also signals the beginning of a new era for the Woking-based carmaker, following its merger with British start-up Forseven in April 2025.
So far, McLaren has concentrated on stabilising its financial position by managing debts and enhancing production quality, but the company is expected to outline its future strategy in the coming months.
The swansong 788HS is a comprehensive evolution of the 750S, featuring increased power, enhanced aerodynamic efficiency, and a thoroughly revised chassis.
Under the hood, the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 now produces 777bhp and 590lb ft of torque, making it the most potent iteration of McLaren’s mid-engined supercar lineup — surpassing the 765LT’s 755bhp output.
This power boost comes courtesy of new forged pistons and a redesigned exhaust system with four tailpipes. McLaren says the updated exhaust setup delivers amplified “intensity” all the way to its 8500rpm redline.
Additionally, the engine mounts have been recalibrated to transmit more tactile feedback into the cabin, enhancing the overall driving connection.
Lightweight construction remains central to the 788HS. New carbonfibre body panels have reduced the dry weight to 1265kg, shedding 12kg from the 750S’s mass.
With the extra power and reduced weight, the 788HS sprints from 0–62mph in 2.8 seconds — identical to the 765LT — and reaches 124mph in 7.0 seconds. Top speed stands at an impressive 205mph.
The aerodynamic improvements are equally striking. The package includes a reworked front splitter, an active rear wing, and a prominent rear diffuser inspired by Formula 1 design philosophy. Together, these upgrades yield up to 10% more downforce than the 765LT.
The suspension has also been revised, lowering the car by 5mm compared to the standard 750S. McLaren claims this adjustment sharpens body control and enhances responsiveness on both road and track.
Braking performance has been upgraded with new carbon-ceramic discs derived from the Senna hypercar, paired with six-piston aluminium calipers at the front. These are said to improve pedal feedback and maintain consistent performance under repeated heavy braking.
The McLaren 788HS will be available in both coupé and spider variants, with production limited to 200 units — evenly split between the two body styles.
Pricing begins at £450,000, a notable increase over the £250,000 base price of the 750S. However, the final figure will vary significantly depending on individual customisation options, which may even include leaving the car unpainted to showcase a raw carbonfibre finish.
