McLaren 788HS Unveiled: Final 700-Series Supercar, Limited to 200 Units

British supercar specialist McLaren has unveiled the 788HS, the final evolution of its 700 series of supercars. Limited to 200 units built through McLaren Special Operations, the McLaren 788HS is split evenly between coupe and spider forms.

The McLaren 788HS wears the High Sport badge for only the third time in the brand's history, following the MP4-12C HS and MSO HS. The 788 part of the name comes from the 788PS (777bhp) output of the twin-turbo V8 and the limited-run supercar features revised aero package that increases downforce by 10 percent over the 765LT.

McLaren 788HS: Engine and Performance

Power for the McLaren 788HS comes from the M840T 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, which produces 788PS (777bhp) at 7,500rpm and 800Nm of torque at 5,500rpm. The engine revs to 8,500rpm and features lightweight forged pistons, ultra-low inertia twin-scroll turbochargers and twin fuel pumps and drives the rear wheels only.

A quad-exit titanium exhaust system amplifies the V8's soundtrack, with revised induction and exhaust symposer technology adding intensity through the rev range. A unique engine mount calibration sharpens the connection between powertrain and driver without affecting long-distance usability.

The dry weight of the 788HS stands at 1,265kg, giving the supercar a power-to-weight ratio of 623PS per tonne, the highest of any model in the 720S, 750S and 765LT series. That also leaves it hundreds of kilograms lighter than hybrid rivals such as the Ferrari 296 Speciale and Lamborghini Temerario.

The extra oomph from the revised 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 allows the McLaren 788HS to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 2.8 seconds. The 0-200km/h takes just 7.0 seconds and the 788HS has a top speed of 330kmh.

McLaren 788HS: Chassis, Suspension and Braking

The 788HS uses a linked-hydraulic Proactive Chassis Control III suspension system with bespoke tuning and adaptive dampers. Front ride height is lowered by 5mm compared with the 750S, sharpening turn-in and body control.

Braking duties fall to carbon ceramic discs derived from the McLaren Senna, paired with black six-piston forged aluminium monoblock front calipers and integrated cooling ducts. The model also introduces a centre-lock wheel mechanism, a first for this supercar series, fitted to new Super Lightweight Forged Alloy wheels.

McLaren 788HS: Design & Features

The McLaren 788HS gets a new aerodynamic package compared to the 750S built entirely in carbon fibre, featuring a multi-zone front splitter, an S-Duct bonnet, a raised active rear spoiler and a Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser. Together, these elements raise downforce by 10 percent over the 765LT without compromising vehicle balance.

A louvred under-wing panel aids powertrain cooling, while gloss black exterior accents include a roof scoop on coupe versions. Buyers can also specify a full Visual Carbon Fibre body in gloss or satin finish, covering every exterior panel.

Inside, the cabin of the 788HS retains the driver-focused layout of the 750S but adds a lightweight carbon fibre centre console and bespoke HS branding. It features a unique upholstery perforation pattern and a dedication plaque specific to each car.

Technology carries over the steering column-mounted instrument binnacle, steering wheel-mounted powertrain and handling mode controls, McLaren Infotainment System II and the McLaren Control Launcher for storing driver preferences.