McLaren 788HS debuts as a 777 horsepower farewell to the brand’s non hybrid V8 supercar era

McLaren has revealed the 788HS, an ultra limited supercar built as a final non hybrid tribute to its mid engine V8 family. The new model follows the path set by the 720S, 765LT, and 750S, but pushes the formula further with more power, stronger aerodynamics, lower weight, and extensive customization through McLaren Special Operations.

The 788HS uses McLaren’s familiar 4.0 liter twin turbocharged V8, now tuned to produce 788 metric horsepower, which equals 777 brake horsepower, along with 590 lb ft of torque. That places it above both the 765LT and 750S, giving McLaren one last high output version of the engine before the company moves toward a broader powertrain overhaul.

Performance figures are serious. McLaren says the 788HS can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds and reach 124 mph in 7.0 seconds. Top speed is listed at 205 mph. Power goes to the rear wheels through a seven speed seamless shift gearbox with a shorter final drive ratio, keeping the car focused on sharp acceleration and track response.

McLaren focuses on weight reduction and aero instead of hybrid assistance

The 788HS is not chasing the extreme hybrid output of McLaren’s 1,258 horsepower W1. Instead, it is built around the idea of mechanical focus. The car uses a carbon fiber Monocage II chassis and has a dry weight of just 2,789 pounds. That gives it a power to weight ratio of 623 metric horsepower per tonne.

McLaren has also changed the engine mount calibration to bring more vibration and exhaust character into the cabin. That detail matters because the 788HS is being positioned as a more emotional and direct driver’s car, not simply as a numbers focused special edition.

The aerodynamic package is one of the biggest changes. McLaren says total downforce is up 10 percent compared with the 765LT. The car uses a large Formula 1 inspired rear diffuser, a detailed front splitter, and a raised active rear wing with Drag Reduction System and airbrake functions.

There is also an F1 derived S duct in the carbon fiber hood. It channels air through the front section and over the cabin to help press down the front axle, while still preserving some front luggage space. That is a useful balance for a road legal supercar that is clearly built with track use in mind.

The chassis setup is based on a retuned version of McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control III linked hydraulic suspension. The front sits 0.2 inches lower than a standard 750S, helping sharpen the car’s stance and handling response.

McLaren will build only 200 examples of the 788HS worldwide. Production will be split evenly between 100 Coupes and 100 retractable roof Spiders. Every car will go through McLaren Special Operations, which means buyers will be able to choose custom finishes, exposed carbon fiber, unique interior details, personalized shift paddles, and other bespoke touches.

Pricing has not been announced, but the 788HS is expected to cost far more than the 750S, which starts at $365,100. Limited production, MSO customization, and its role as the final non hybrid celebration of this V8 lineage should all push transaction prices much higher.

The 788HS arrives at a turning point for McLaren. With CYVN Holdings preparing to guide a full range powertrain revamp from 2028, this model feels like a closing chapter for the brand’s pure combustion V8 supercars. It is not the most powerful McLaren ever made, but it may become one of the most important for collectors who want the final, most focused version of this era.