McLaren 788HS confirmed for New Zealand with $1 million-plus price tag

The new McLaren 788HS has been confirmed for New Zealand, with the British brand's most focused Super Series model yet set to cost more than $1 million when it arrives here in 2027.

Only 200 examples will be built globally through McLaren Special Operations (MSO), split evenly between 100 Coupes and 100 Spiders, making it one of the rarest modern McLarens ever produced.

McLaren New Zealand has confirmed the limited-run supercar will be offered to local buyers in both Coupe and Spider body styles, with pricing expected to exceed the seven-figure mark. Final local pricing and specifications are yet to be announced.

The 788HS serves as the swansong for McLaren's current Super Series platform, which debuted with the 720S in 2017 before spawning the 765LT and today's 750S.

The 'HS' – short for High Sport – badge has only previously appeared on the ultra-exclusive MP4-12C HS and MSO HS, making the 788HS just the third model to wear the designation.

Power comes from a heavily revised twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine producing 580kW of power and 800Nm of torque, making it the most powerful Super Series McLaren ever built.

McLaren says the 788HS can sprint from 0-100km/h in a claimed 2.8 seconds, reach 200km/h in just 7.0 seconds, and continue to a top speed of 330km/h.

The V8 revs to 8500rpm and features forged pistons, twin fuel pumps, ultra-low-inertia twin-scroll turbochargers, revised engine mounts, and a new quad-exit titanium exhaust designed to deliver a louder, more engaging soundtrack.

Despite its additional performance, the 788HS tips the scales at a claimed 1265kg dry, delivering a power-to-weight ratio of 458kW per tonne.

Beyond the extra power, McLaren says the biggest advances come from a comprehensive aerodynamic overhaul.

The all-carbon-fibre body package includes a new S-Duct bonnet, larger front splitter, raised active rear spoiler, Formula 1-inspired rear diffuser, and louvred rear wing, generating 10 per cent more downforce than the already track-focused 765LT.

The suspension has also been retuned with bespoke adaptive dampers and McLaren's Proactive Chassis Control III linked hydraulic suspension system, while the front ride height has been lowered by 5mm.

For the first time on a Super Series model, the 788HS also adopts centre-lock forged alloy wheels measuring 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear.

Stopping power comes courtesy of carbon-ceramic brakes derived from the McLaren Senna, paired with six-piston forged aluminium front calipers.

Inside, the cabin remains familiar to existing 750S owners but gains bespoke HS branding, unique perforated upholstery, a lightweight carbon-fibre centre console, and an individually numbered build plaque.

Customers will also be able to extensively personalise their cars through McLaren Special Operations, including the option of full visual carbon-fibre bodywork in either gloss or satin finishes.

The 788HS also marks the end of an era for McLaren's V8-powered Super Series range.

The British automaker is expected to unveil its replacement later this year, with reports pointing to a new plug-in hybrid V8 flagship due to enter production in 2027.