McLaren has revealed the 788HS, the final and most focused evolution of its award-winning Super Series, bringing to a close a model lineage that began with the 720S before progressing through the 765LT and 750S. Designed as the ultimate expression of the platform, the 788HS combines a 788PS 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 with a dry weight of just 1,265kg, resulting in a class-leading power-to-weight ratio of 623PS per tonne. According to McLaren, that figure is the highest achieved by any model in the 720S, 750S, and 765LT family.
Alongside the increased output, the 788HS introduces a unique aerodynamic package, more aggressive styling and expanded personalization options through McLaren Special Operations (MSO). The combination is intended to deliver greater track capability, increased driver engagement on the road, and a more individual ownership experience.
The new model also revives McLaren’s exclusive “High Sport” designation. The 788HS becomes only the third production McLaren to wear the HS badge, following 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. 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.”
Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer, Chief Commercial Officer, McLaren Automotive
Assertive design
The 788HS receives extensive aerodynamic revisions aimed at improving performance without compromising balance or drivability. McLaren says the revised bodywork generates 10 percent more downforce than the 765LT, making it the most aerodynamically advanced version of the platform to date.
Key changes include a new S-Duct bonnet, a raised active rear spoiler and a Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser, all working alongside a bespoke front splitter to increase stability and high-speed confidence. A louvered under-wing panel also contributes to improved cooling and aerodynamic efficiency.
Gloss black exterior details are fitted throughout, including a roof scoop on Coupe models, while buyers can specify full Visual Carbon Fibre bodywork covering every exterior panel to further emphasize the car’s lightweight construction.
Inside, the driver-focused cockpit features a lightweight carbon-fiber center console, reinforcing the model’s performance-first philosophy. Exclusive HS branding, a unique upholstery perforation pattern and a dedicated plaque distinguish the cabin from other Super Series models.
Track precision meets on-road engagement
Power comes from McLaren’s M840T 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, which produces 788PS and 800Nm of torque. The engine revs to 8,500rpm, with peak power arriving at 7,500rpm.
Performance figures include a 0-100km/h sprint in 2.8 seconds, 0-200km/h in 7.0 seconds and a top speed of 330km/h (205mph). McLaren has also developed a unique engine mount calibration for the 788HS to improve powertrain response and driver feedback while maintaining long-distance comfort.
The chassis benefits from bespoke tuning of McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control III linked-hydraulic suspension system, while the front ride height has been lowered by 5mm compared with the 750S to sharpen handling and increase driver engagement.
Braking performance is upgraded with carbon-ceramic discs derived from the McLaren Senna, paired with black six-piston forged aluminum monoblock front calipers and integrated cooling for repeated high-performance use.
The 788HS also introduces the first center-lock wheel system ever fitted to this Super Series platform, matched with new Super Lightweight Forged Alloy wheels.
Completing the package is a quad-exit titanium exhaust system that enhances the twin-turbo V8’s soundtrack across the rev range. McLaren says carefully tuned induction and exhaust sound symposer technologies further immerse occupants in the engine’s distinctive character.
Technical Highlights of 788HS
Powertrain
- 4.0-litre M840T twin-turbocharged V8 engine
- Lightweight forged pistons
- Ultra-low inertia twin scroll turbochargers
- Twin fuel pumps
- Peak power output of 788PS (777bhp) at 7,500rpm
- Peak torque of 800Nm (590lb ft) at 5,500rpm
Lightweight engineering
- Carbon fibre monocoque chassis
- High-performance, lightweight materials throughout with advanced carbon fibre technologies for body components
- New HS aerodynamic package, all in carbon fibre
Lightweight interior components
- Dry weight of 1,265kg
- Power-to-weight ratio of 623PS per tonne, the highest in this supercar series
- Optional full visual carbon fibre body available in gloss or satin finishes
Aerodynamics
- Multi-zone front splitter
- S-Duct bonnet
- Raised active rear spoiler
- Louvered under-wing panel
- Formula 1-inspired diffuser with 10% increase in downforce compared with McLaren 765LT
Chassis and 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
- Centre 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 and 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 V8 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
Above contents © 2026 McLaren Automotive Ltd, reviewed and edited by Rex McAfee , @rexmcafee 🏁
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