Incredible Features That Make the New McLaren 788HS a Future Classic

McLaren has revealed the new 788HS, the final and most focused version of the supercar family that began with the groundbreaking 720S. Building on the success of the 765LT and the latest 750S, the new model marks the end of one of the brand’s most celebrated generations.

As only the third McLaren ever to carry the prestigious High Sport (HS) badge, the 788HS combines more power, greater aerodynamic efficiency and sharper handling. At the same time, it offers extensive personalisation through McLaren Special Operations (MSO), allowing every owner to create something genuinely individual.

With improved performance on both road and circuit, the 788HS stands as the strongest expression yet of McLaren’s modern supercar philosophy.

A Rare HS Badge Returns

The High Sport designation has always been reserved for McLaren’s most exclusive creations. Previously, it appeared only on the MP4-12C HS and the MSO HS.

Now, the 788HS joins that exclusive club.

Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer, Chief Commercial Officer at McLaren Automotive, describes the new model as the ultimate expression of the award-winning supercar series. Every element has been developed to increase driver involvement while maintaining the everyday usability expected from a McLaren road car.

As a result, the 788HS closes this chapter of McLaren’s history on a high note.

More Power with Less Weight

At the heart of the 788HS sits McLaren’s familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8. However, engineers have extracted even more performance.

Key figures include:

• 788PS
• 800Nm of torque
• 8,500rpm maximum engine speed
• 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in 2.8 seconds
• 0-124mph (0-200km/h) in 7.0 seconds
• Top speed of 205mph (330km/h)

Equally important is its remarkably low 1,265kg dry weight. Consequently, the car achieves an impressive 623PS per tonne, making it the highest power-to-weight ratio of any production model based on the 720S platform.

Furthermore, revised engine mounts improve feedback between driver and powertrain. Therefore, every throttle input feels more immediate without reducing long-distance comfort.

Sharper Aerodynamics Inspired by Motorsport

Downforce Increases by 10%

McLaren has redesigned almost every aerodynamic component.

Compared with the 765LT, the McLaren 788HS produces 10% more downforce, helping improve stability during high-speed driving while preserving the balanced handling that defines the brand.

New aerodynamic highlights include:

• S-Duct front bonnet
• Bespoke front splitter
• Raised active rear wing
• Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser
• Louvred rear under-wing panel for improved cooling

Together, these components generate greater aerodynamic efficiency while enhancing driver confidence through faster corners.

A More Purposeful Design

The 788HS immediately stands out from previous models.

Gloss black exterior detailing creates stronger visual contrast, while Coupe versions gain a distinctive roof scoop that reinforces the car’s motorsport-inspired appearance.

For buyers seeking the ultimate specification, McLaren offers a full Visual Carbon Fibre exterior. Everybody panel can be finished in exposed carbon fibre, highlighting the lightweight engineering beneath the surface.

Although clearly more aggressive, the overall design remains clean and unmistakably McLaren.

Driver-Focused Interior

Inside, McLaren has concentrated on reducing weight while increasing exclusivity.

The lightweight carbon fibre centre console reflects the car’s performance-focused character. Meanwhile, bespoke HS branding reminds occupants that they are driving one of McLaren’s rarest road cars.

Interior highlights include:

• Carbon fibre centre console
• Exclusive HS badging
• Unique perforated upholstery design
• Dedicated commemorative plaque

These details help distinguish the McLaren 788HS from every other member of the series.

Chassis Upgrades Deliver Even Greater Precision

Performance improvements extend well beyond the engine.

McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control III suspension receives model-specific calibration to deliver more precise responses without sacrificing ride quality.

In addition, engineers have lowered the front ride height by 5mm compared with the 750S. Consequently, steering feels even sharper during enthusiastic driving.

The braking system also benefits from significant upgrades.

Carbon ceramic discs derived from the McLaren Senna provide stronger and more consistent stopping power. At the same time, six-piston forged aluminium front calipers and improved cooling ensure reliable performance under demanding conditions.

Another first for this supercar family is the introduction of centre-lock wheels. Combined with new Super Lightweight forged alloys, they reduce unsprung weight while adding an authentic motorsport touch.

A Richer V8 Soundtrack

The McLaren 788HS places greater emphasis on driver involvement.

Its quad-exit titanium exhaust produces a deeper and more intense soundtrack throughout the rev range. Meanwhile, carefully tuned intake and exhaust sound systems channel more of the V8’s character into the cabin.

The result is a driving experience that feels more connected while remaining refined during longer journeys.

Extensive Personalisation Through MSO

Owners can tailor the 788HS extensively using the expertise of McLaren Special Operations.

From bespoke paint finishes to unique interior materials and exposed carbon fibre components, virtually every example can be specified to reflect its owner’s preferences.

This level of individuality makes the final member of the 720S family even more desirable for collectors.

The Final Word on the 720S Generation

The McLaren 788HS serves as a fitting conclusion to one of the company’s most successful supercar line-ups.

It delivers more power, improved aerodynamics, lower weight and sharper chassis tuning while preserving the everyday usability that made the original 720S such a success.

Most importantly, the rare HS badge ensures its place among the most exclusive McLarens ever produced. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, it represents the ultimate evolution of a remarkable generation.

What do you think?

Does the 788HS deserve to become the greatest version of the 720S family? Would you choose it over the legendary 765LT? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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