The McLaren 788HS (High Sport) has been revealed. Available in both Coupe and Spider trims, this is the final, most extreme evolution of a bloodline that began with the iconic McLaren 720S and matured through the 765LT and 750S. A proper send-off, then. And what a way to do it.
At its heart lies a reworked 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that makes 788 PS (around 766 hp) and 800 Nm (590 lb ft) of torque. Peak power arrives at 7,500 rpm, whereas peak torque is delivered at 5,500 rpm.
The 788HS introduces the most aggressive aerodynamic package ever fitted to this platform. A multi-zone front splitter, S-Duct bonnet, raised active rear wing, and a Formula 1-inspired diffuser work together to increase downforce by 10% over the already ferocious 765LT.
Then we have the carbon fibre monocoque that keeps weight down to just 1,265 kg (dry). That translates to a staggering 623 PS per tonne—the best in this lineage. Lightweight materials are used throughout, from the new carbon aero package to the stripped-out interior.
For acoustics, there is a quad-exit titanium exhaust that not only saves weight but also delivers a harder, more intense soundtrack, especially as the revs climb.
McLaren is going to build only 200 examples of the 788HS worldwide, with an equal split across Coupe and Spider variants.
