McLaren 788HS: The 720S Line's Final, Most Powerful Evolution

Abu Dhabi: The McLaren 788HS has been introduced as the definitive evolution of its decorated supercar lineage, which includes the 720S, 750S, and 765LT. Producing 788PS from its 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, the new model achieves the highest power-to-weight ratio of the entire series. It is the final, most potent expression of the platform, limited to just 200 vehicles globally.

Quick read:

• The 788HS is the final model in the 720S/750S/765LT series, with a 788PS V8 engine.

• It achieves a power-to-weight ratio of 623PS per tonne, the highest in its lineage.

• Production is limited to 200 units globally, split evenly between coupe and spider variants.

• Every vehicle is fully customisable through McLaren Special Operations (MSO).

The Final Evolution

Since the 720S arrived, it has been the answer to the question: ‘What if a surgeon’s scalpel had an engine and an opinion on aerodynamics?’ With the 788HS, McLaren is closing the book on this particular chapter. This is not just another update. It’s the full stop. Only the third McLaren to wear the ‘High Sport’ (HS) designation—following the MP4-12C HS and MSO HS—the 788HS is positioned as the ultimate expression of this chassis and engine combination, a final collection of the best ideas developed over the model’s lifetime.

788PS and Record Weight Ratio

The numbers are, frankly, a bit silly. The 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 now produces 788PS and 800Nm of torque, with peak power hitting at 7,500rpm just before an 8,500rpm redline. Put your foot down and the performance figures suggest it doesn't surge, it detonates. Zero to 100km/h happens in 2.8 seconds. Zero to 200km/h is dispatched in a blistering 7.0 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 330km/h. But the headline figure is the power-to-weight ratio. At 623PS per tonne, thanks to a dry weight of just 1,265kg, this is the sharpest tool in this particular Woking shed. It’s a metric that speaks directly to a supercar like the Fenomeno's intensity and responsiveness.

Limited Production and Customisation

Exclusivity is guaranteed. McLaren will build only 200 examples of the 788HS for the entire world, with an equal 100-unit split between the coupe and spider body styles. For buyers in the UAE, the real draw is the mandated involvement of McLaren Special Operations (MSO). Every single car is a bespoke commission, not a tick-box exercise from a standard options list. This ensures each of the 200 cars will be a unique reflection of its owner’s taste, moving it from a mere supercar into the realm of personalised automotive art.

Carbon Aerodynamics and Upgrades

The 788HS looks like a 765LT that has opinions on advanced composites. Its advanced all-carbon-fibre aerodynamic package generates 10% more downforce than the already formidable 765LT. This is achieved through a multi-zone front splitter, an S-duct bonnet, a raised active rear spoiler, and a rear diffuser that looks like it was borrowed from a Formula 1 car’s sketchbook. The upgrades are more than skin deep.

It gets carbon ceramic brakes derived from the McLaren Senna, gripped by black six-piston forged aluminium monoblock front calipers. For the first time in this series, it features a centre-lock wheel mechanism. The front ride height is dropped by 5mm compared to the 750S, and the soundtrack is handled by a quad-exit titanium exhaust system, complete with engineered sound symposer technologies to make sure the noise matches the drama.

Also Read: McLaren 750S: The Ultimate Evolution of the Supercar