2027 McLaren 788HS First Look: The 720S Platform Goes Out Swinging

When it first debuted in 2017, the McLaren 720S redefined what a McLaren could be. It packed a powerful 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 that turned the 3,167-pound machine into an absolute rocket. In 2023, it evolved into the 750S, which turned everything that made the 720S so good up to 11 and further redefined the supercar market.

But after nearly a decade of production, it’s time to close the chapter on the 720S platform and, boy howdy, McLaren is giving it a fitting send-off. The 788HS will debut not only as one of the most powerful road-legal versions of its modern supercar icon, but also as one of the lightest, fully living up to the High Sport name it carries.

A Powerful V-8 Heart

Let’s start with the powerplant mounted behind the cabin of the 788HS. At 777 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, only the Senna LM (814 horsepower) and Senna GTR LM (845 horsepower) top this retuned version of the M840T in pure gasoline-only power. Combined with a 2,789-pound dry weight, that output helps it achieve a top speed of 205 mph and a 0–60 time of 2.8 seconds, according to McLaren, putting it on par with the 765LT.

Once the engine burns that twin-turbocharged air, it exhales through a revised quad-exit titanium exhaust system tuned to give the M840T a richer, more intense sound at higher engine speeds. McLaren has also enhanced its startup character with revised induction and exhaust symposer technology.

Chassis Dynamics Enhanced

McLaren also enhanced the suspension of the 788HS, lowering it 0.19 inch (5mm) compared to the 750S at the front, while the bespoke Proactive Chassis Control III suspension system has been tuned for a more dynamic and engaging driving
experience. One important thing it did borrow from the McLaren Senna, however, is its brakes. The carbon-ceramic discs are paired with six-piston forged-aluminum monoblock front calipers painted black. This impressive braking system sits behind a set of center-lock Super Lightweight forged wheels, a first for the 720S platform.

Improved Aerodynamics

Of course, the chassis dynamics and engine tuning would be wasted if the 788HS just used the standard 750S body. The nose has been enhanced with a multizone front splitter that works with the decreased front ride height and leads into the louvered underwing panel. It also incorporates ductwork to help keep the powerful brakes cool under heavy use.

The active rear spoiler is raised and works in conjunction with the Formula 1–inspired rear diffuser to provide a 10 percent increase in downforce versus the 765LT. Feeding the engine fresh, cool air is an S-duct scoop connected to the engine cover that completes the race car look of this super street car.

These enhancements to the engine and chassis are user-adjustable using the steering-wheel-mounted mode controls inside the 788HS. Instrumentation is viewed through a column-mounted digital display, ensuring the driver can properly see the vitals at any steering wheel height. You’ll also be able to save and recall your driving profile using the McLaren Control Launcher, making your already bespoke ride that much more customized.

Tunes and navigation are handled by the McLaren Infotainment System II touchscreen, and the transmission drive-control switches just below it lead down to the carbon-fiber center console.

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You Can Get It as a Spider or a Coupe

While you may think these enhancements are limited to a coupe body, there will also be a spider version of the 788HS for those wanting an open-top experience. The main difference is the removal of the S-duct intake—and the opening roof, of course. The body is also available with exposed carbon-fiber bodywork in gloss or satin topcoat finishes.

As only the third McLaren to wear the High Sport name, the 788HS will be limited to just 200 examples globally, joining legendary McLarens like the MP4-12C HS and the MSO HS. The split between the coupe and spider variants will be equal, but each one built by McLaren Special Operations (MSO) will be unique to its customer. And as always, if you need to ask about the price, it’s probably not for you.