2026 McLaren 788HS marks the end of the iconic 720S era

McLaren has unveiled what could be the most significant ‘final edition’ in its modern history: the 788HS. Billed as the definitive and final evolution of the supercar lineage that began with the 720S in 2017 before continuing through the 765LT and 750S, the limited-production model marks the end of an era for one of the brand’s most successful model families.

The wraps have come off the new McLaren 788HS at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK, with only 200 versions of the swan song supercar to be built, and you can bet your bottom dollar most if not all of them have already been spoken for.

The production run will be split evenly between Coupe and Spider body styles, with every car shaped by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), allowing owners to extensively personalise their vehicle.

Power comes from McLaren's familiar 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, tuned to produce 580kW (788PS) – hence the name.

It also pumps out 800Nm of torque, revs to 8500rpm and, combined with a claimed dry weight of 1265kg, has a claimed class-leading power-to-weight ratio of 458kW per tonne.

As such, the 788HS is the most potent version yet of the 720S, 765LT and 750S family.

Performance figures include a claimed 0-100km/h sprint of 2.8 seconds, 0-200km/h in 7.0 seconds and a top speed of 330km/h.

The powertrain benefits from bespoke engine mount calibration designed to sharpen driver engagement, while a new quad-exit titanium exhaust looks like pure automotive art.

A revised induction system and updated symposer deliver a more aggressive soundtrack and aerodynamic revisions are equally extensive.

A new ‘S-Duct’ bonnet, raised active rear spoiler, multi-zone front splitter and Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser combine to increase downforce by 10 per cent over the already track-focused 765LT.

Underneath, McLaren has recalibrated its Proactive Chassis Control III suspension system specifically for the 788HS, while the front ride height has been lowered by 5mm compared with the 750S to improve turn-in response.

Braking is handled by carbon ceramic discs derived from the McLaren Senna, paired with six-piston monoblock front calipers.

The 788HS also introduces centre-lock wheels to this model family for the first time, fitted with a new super lightweight forged alloy wheel design.

Despite its exclusivity, it enters a highly competitive segment occupied by rivals such as the Ferrari 296 GTB and the Lamborghini Temerario, however with only 200 examples planned and extensive MSO personalisation available, the McLaren is positioned more as a collector's farewell model than a direct volume competitor.

McLaren says the 788HS represents the final chapter for the platform that began with the 720S, strongly suggesting its replacement is already deep into development.

That aligns with reports that McLaren Group Holdings has outlined a product roadmap extending through to 2030 with annual model launches planned.

Importantly for enthusiasts, future McLaren models are expected to retain internal-combustion power, with CEO Nick Collins previously stating the company will only introduce a fully electric model "when our customers want one".

Reports also suggest up to five new McLaren models could arrive before the end of the decade, including a hybrid V8 successor to the 750S and the company's first SUV, expected to challenge rivals including the Ferrari Purosangue and Aston Martin DBX.

For now, though, the spotlight remains firmly on the 788HS, a limited-production supercar that gives one of McLaren's most extreme model lines a fitting send-off.

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