McLaren’s signature V8 supercar bows out after a decade as wild, Formula 1-inspired special edition
McLaren’s signature V8 supercar is bowing out with the new 788HS, a track-focused machine built by its Special Operations (MSO) division.
It’s the final chapter in the lineage that started with the 720S in 2017, then continued through the 765LT (which finished second in Autocar’s 2020 Britain’s Best Driver’s Car contest) and the 750S of 2024.
The ‘High Sport’ also represents the start of a new age for the Woking-based manufacturer, which merged with British start-up Forseven in April 2025.
McLaren’s focus has thus far been on stabilising its position by clearing debts and working to improve production quality, but it’s due to detail its future plans in the coming months.
The swansong 788HS represents a total overhaul of the 750S, bringing additional power, an aggressive aerodynamics package and a reworked chassis.
The headline figures are outputs of 777bhp and 590lb ft from its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, making it the most powerful derivative of McLaren’s mid-engined supercar (the 765LT had 755bhp).
That is thanks in part to new forged pistons and a new exhaust system with four tailpipes. The latter, McLaren claims, provides greater “intensity” up to the 8500rpm rev limit.
The engine mounts, meanwhile, have been fettled to send more feel through to the cabin.
Meanwhile, new carbonfibre bodywork helps to cut dry weight to 1265kg, down from 1277kg in the 750S.
Together with the additional output, this enables the 788HS to hit 62mph from rest in 2.8sec (matching the 765LT). It reaches 124mph in 7.0sec and goes on to a top speed of 205mph.
The aerodynamic package also brings a significant increase in downforce. It comprises a new front splitter, an active rear spoiler and a chunky rear diffuser said to take inspiration from Formula 1 – which alone brings a 10% improvement in downforce over the 765LT.
The suspension set-up has been modified, resulting in the 788HS sitting 5mm lower than the base 750S. McLaren claims it will deliver improved body control and responsiveness.
Stopping power is improved by new carbon-ceramic discs inspired by those fitted to the Senna hypercar, matched with six-pot aluminium calipers mounted up front.
These are also said to provide more feel through the pedal and greater consistency in repeated hard use, such as on track.
The 788HS will be offered in both coupé and spider form. A total of 200 will be built, split evenly between bodystyles.
Prices start at £450,000 – a significant premium over the £250,000 750S – but will be highly variable, depending on how a buyer chooses to specify their car.
Options include omitting paint in favour of a raw carbonfibre finish.
