McLaren’s 788HS Bids Farewell to a Legendary Supercar Line
McLaren is closing out one of its most celebrated supercar bloodlines with a special final edition. The new 788HS acts as the last and most extreme evolution of the 720S, 765LT, and 750S range, offered in both Coupe and Spider forms. Each version is limited to just 100 examples, making the model as exclusive as it is powerful.
Power comes from the familiar 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, now tuned to deliver 777 horsepower and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. That thrust is enough to launch the car from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 2.8 seconds, reach 124 mph (200 km/h) in seven seconds, and continue on to a top speed of 205 mph (330 km/h).
For buyers focused on performance above all else, the Coupe is the lighter choice. With a dry weight of 1,265 kilograms (2,789 pounds), it gives the 788HS McLaren’s best power-to-weight ratio in the series at 614 hp per metric ton. An optional full carbon-fiber body is also available for those wanting the most exotic specification possible.
The upgrades are not limited to straight-line speed. McLaren says the car produces 10 percent more downforce than the 765LT thanks to a revised aerodynamic package that includes an F1-inspired rear diffuser, a new front splitter, a raised active spoiler, and a reshaped hood S-duct to smooth airflow.
Underneath, the suspension has been further refined, dropping the front axle by 5 millimeters compared with the 750S. Braking is handled by Senna-derived carbon-ceramic discs, paired with newly designed forged center-lock wheels that appear on this supercar series for the first time.
The 788HS is only the third McLaren to wear the High Sport name, following the MP4-12C HS and MSO HS. As with other special McLaren projects, MSO will personalize all 200 cars, so each one should leave the factory with a distinct specification.
While the 788HS marks the end of this chapter, it also hints that McLaren is preparing what comes next. The company has been quiet about future products, though CEO Nick Collins has said more information should arrive later this summer. A replacement for this supercar family seems likely, and rumors continue to swirl around a possible McLaren SUV as well.
