McLaren has revealed the McLaren 788HS at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed as the final development of the supercar line that began with the 720S and subsequently produced the 765LT and 750S. It is only the third road car to carry McLaren’s High Sport designation, following the MP4-12C HS and MSO HS.
Its M840T 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 produces 777bhp at 7500rpm and 590lb ft of torque at 5500rpm. McLaren quotes a dry weight of 1265kg, giving a power-to-weight ratio of 623PS per tonne, the highest of any model derived from the 720S platform.
The 788HS accelerates from 0-62mph in 2.8 seconds and reaches 124mph in 7.0 seconds. Its maximum speed is 205mph, while the engine revs to 8500rpm. Lightweight forged pistons, twin-scroll turbochargers and twin fuel pumps form part of the revised powertrain specification.
McLaren has also developed a separate engine-mount calibration for the 788HS, intended to transmit more vibration and feedback from the powertrain without preventing longer road journeys. A revised titanium exhaust terminates in four central outlets, supported by retuned induction and exhaust sound systems.
The new aerodynamic package produces ten per cent more downforce than that of the 765LT. Its principal elements include an S-Duct bonnet, multi-zone front splitter, raised active rear spoiler, louvred under-wing panel and a Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser. The under-wing louvres also direct heat away from the powertrain.
Coupé versions receive a roof-mounted intake, while full exposed carbon-fibre bodywork will be available through McLaren Special Operations in gloss or satin finishes. Other exterior components are finished in gloss black.
The 788HS retains McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control III linked-hydraulic suspension, with model-specific spring, damper and geometry settings. Its front ride height is 5mm lower than that of the 750S. Carbon-ceramic brake discs derived from the McLaren Senna are fitted with six-piston forged aluminium front calipers and integrated cooling ducts. The 788HS also becomes the first member of the 720S-derived series to use centre-lock wheels, combined with a new lightweight forged-alloy design.
Inside, McLaren has fitted a lightweight carbon-fibre centre console, an instrument display attached to the steering column and steering-wheel controls for the powertrain and handling modes. The upholstery receives an HS-specific perforation pattern, accompanied by model identification and a dedication plaque.
“The new McLaren 788HS has been designed and engineered with a singular focus, to deliver a visceral experience and captivating drive through its precise balance of performance, sound, dynamism and individuality,” said McLaren Automotive chief commercial officer Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer. “It represents the ultimate expression of our supercar series that began with the 720S.”
More details are available here.
