The pure, unassisted V8 supercar era at Woking has reached its absolute end. McLaren has officially closed the curtain on the 720S lineage, which spawned both the 765LT and the 750S, by unleashing the McLaren 788HS, a track weapon that many speculate is the final parting shot to its pure V8-powered supercar from the brand, even if Woking remains completely tight-lipped on the matter.
This is only the third McLaren to receive the special HS designation, which stands for ‘High Sport’, following the MP4-12C HS and the MSO HS. True to its exclusive nature, only 200 units will be built, with an equal split between the Coupe and Spider variants.
The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine in the 788HS now makes 788 hp and 800 Nm thanks to new lightweight forged pistons, ultra-low inertia twin-scroll turbochargers, and twin fuel pumps. Managing all that power is a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox that enables 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7.0 seconds, and a top speed of 330 km/h.
Thanks to the extensive use of carbon fibre components, the 788HS has a power-to-weight ratio of 623 hp per tonne. With the whole car tipping the scales at a dry weight of 1,265 kg, you had better strap yourself in properly before taking this beast on the track.
To attack corners as fast as possible, the McLaren 788HS is equipped with what Woking claims is the most advanced aerodynamic package applied to the platform. The 788HS can generate 10% more downforce than the 765LT, courtesy of a new S-Duct bonnet, a raised active rear spoiler, and a rear diffuser inspired by McLaren ventures in Formula 1.
These elements work in combination with a new front splitter that improves stability, with the louvred under-wing panel channelling air to cool the powertrain while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency.
This results in the 788HS looking more like a race car for the track with its massive rear spoiler. It even comes with centre-lock wheels, a first for this platform, and the exterior can be optioned with full visual carbon fibre bodywork if you are truly obsessed with the material.
A set of carbon-ceramic brake discs taken from the McLaren Senna pairs with six-piston forged aluminium monoblock front calipers to keep everything under control. Beneath the skin, the linked-hydraulic Proactive Chassis Control III suspension system underpins the entire car, lowering the front ride height by 5 mm compared to the 750S.
Inside, you will find body-hugging bucket seats and a driver-centric layout, featuring the instrument cluster mounted directly on the steering wheel alongside the power and handling mode controls. The cabin also features the McLaren Control Launcher (MCL) to allow the driver to store a favourite combination of aero, handling, powertrain, and transmission settings.
Naturally, the space is decked out in carbon fibre, with all the acoustic drama channelled through a quad exhaust system that McLaren says is amplified by tweaking the engine mounts and the induction system to deliver more engagement.
UK pricing starts from GBP450,000 (approx. RM2.45 million). If you want one of these 200 units, you had better put your deposit down quickly. That price tag might balloon significantly depending on how you choose to customise your 788HS, but as this is the final of its kind, it is likely worth it.
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