McLaren’s Latest Drop, The 788HS Is The Last V8 Only Supercar

McLaren 788HS Features

The McLaren 788HS throws up some astounding numbers. From a complete standstill, it can shatter the 100km/h barrier in just 2.8 seconds before sprinting on to its 330km/h top speed. It can cover a quarter of a mile in just 10.1 seconds from 0km/h. But so could the McLaren 750S, so what’s special about this one?

The Final V8-Only McLaren

The McLaren 788HS is the final interpretation of the V8-only supercar that began with the McLaren 720S and evolved into the 750S and 765LT. Even the name is special because the HS designation, standing for 'High Sport', is reserved for the rarest and most extreme series-production supercars and returns for only the third time in McLaren’s history. Of the 200 cars, 100 will be open-top Spiders.

At the heart of the 788HS sits McLaren's 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, featuring lightweight forged pistons, ultra-low-inertia twin-scroll turbochargers and twin fuel pumps, producing 788hp (hence the name) and 800Nm of torque. This is the highest power output of any model in this award-winning supercar series. With a lightest dry weight of just 1,265kg, it achieves an incredible power-to-weight ratio of 623hp per tonne. All that power and torque are channelled through a seven-speed Seamless Shift Gearbox for immediate, unfiltered performance. Before you point out that the latest McLaren W1 is also powered by a thumping good V8, we should point out that it uses an electric module in addition to the engine. This one doesn’t and, in that sense, is a purer interpretation of a supercar.

Built For The Track

The 788HS features Proactive Chassis Control III active suspension and a front ride height that sits 5mm lower than the 750S. This means that the 788HS will feel even more connected to the track and is going to be an absolute delight for an enthusiast on a race track. Add to this an aero package specifically designed for the supercar’s stunning silhouette, and you’re looking at one of the most potent track tools there is. This advanced aerodynamic package features a multi-zone carbon-fibre front splitter, S-Duct bonnet, raised active rear spoiler, louvred under-wing panel and Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser. Combined with McLaren's carbon Monocage III and super-lightweight forged centre-lock wheels, it delivers exceptional stability and driver confidence.

Driver First

Braking duties are handled by carbon-ceramic discs derived from those used in the McLaren Senna. These are paired with six-piston forged aluminium monobloc calipers and integrated cooling ducts inspired by McLaren’s long experience in Formula 1. The result? The McLaren 788HS can stop from 200km/h to a complete standstill in just 113 metres.

More than specifications, McLaren has always focused on driver feel, immediacy of response, and a thrilling experience. The McLaren 788HS is the distillation of that very philosophy in this final interpretation of the V8-only supercar series.