Ferrari has unveiled its latest automotive marvel, the 849 Testarossa, a mid-engined plug-in hybrid supercar that pays homage to a legendary name while pushing the boundaries of modern automotive engineering. This new model, available in both coupe and Spider variants, is set to replace the acclaimed SF90 Stradale, building upon its mechanical foundation with significant enhancements. The 849 Testarossa boasts a formidable powertrain, advanced chassis dynamics, and a design that blends heritage with aggressive contemporary aesthetics, promising an unparalleled driving experience. With its potent performance figures and a legacy to uphold, the 849 Testarossa marks a thrilling new chapter for the Prancing Horse.
The engineering prowess extends to a meticulously crafted interior and a specialized Assetto Fiorano variant, designed for enthusiasts seeking even greater performance. The cabin features a driver-centric wraparound cockpit with innovative digital interfaces, eschewing a central touchscreen for integrated displays. The Assetto Fiorano option further elevates the car's capabilities with weight reduction, stiffer suspension, and track-focused tires, underscoring Ferrari's commitment to delivering extreme performance and exclusivity. This grand reveal solidifies Ferrari's position at the forefront of high-performance hybrid technology, offering both raw power and refined luxury.
Unleashing the Power: The 849 Testarossa's Hybrid Heart
Ferrari is bringing back the esteemed Testarossa name for its newest supercar, the 849 Testarossa, which is designed to supersede the SF90 Stradale. This vehicle represents a significant evolution in Ferrari's hybrid technology, featuring a mid-mounted twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine working in concert with three electric motors. Two motors are positioned at the front axle, providing torque vectoring and regenerative braking, while a third motor is integrated within the eight-speed dual-clutch transaxle. This sophisticated powertrain collectively delivers an astonishing 1036 horsepower, a notable increase of 50 hp over its predecessor. The V-8 engine itself produces 819 hp and 621 pound-feet of torque, benefiting from new cylinder heads, a redesigned intake, lighter camshafts, and larger turbos. These enhancements enable the 849 Testarossa to accelerate from zero to 62 mph in an estimated 2.3 seconds and reach 124 mph in just 6.3 seconds, showcasing its formidable speed and agility. Furthermore, the vehicle can operate in all-electric mode for up to 16 miles at speeds reaching 81 mph, powered by a 6.5-kWh battery pack, offering a blend of performance and efficiency.
The 849 Testarossa's performance is not solely defined by its raw power; it also incorporates advanced engineering to refine the driving experience. Ferrari has focused on enhancing the engine's auditory presence, ensuring a more rewarding sound at all speeds. The braking system features brake-by-wire technology, with larger front discs and redesigned rear calipers contributing to more progressive pedal action and shorter stopping distances. Chassis changes include re-tuned suspension geometry aimed at reducing body roll, while high-performance tire options from Pirelli, Bridgestone, and Michelin ensure optimal grip and handling. The car's aerodynamic profile is a direct response to the larger turbos' cooling demands, necessitating an 18% larger front air opening and prominent XXL air intakes on the side bodywork. This design choice, while functional, also creates a distinctive vertical graphic, echoing the original Testarossa's iconic side strakes. The rear of the car features a twin-tail design inspired by 1970s sports racers, and a deployable rear spoiler, similar to that on the 296, increases downforce by 220 pounds at 171 mph, bringing the total downforce to 915 pounds—a 55-pound improvement over the SF90. These comprehensive upgrades underscore Ferrari's dedication to engineering a supercar that excels in every aspect of performance and design.
Design and Exclusivity: Coupe, Spider, and Assetto Fiorano Variants
The Ferrari 849 Testarossa offers enthusiasts a choice between a sleek coupe and an elegant Spider version, each designed to deliver an exceptional driving experience. The Spider variant, with its retractable hardtop and a power-operated glass wind blocker situated between the seats, provides the thrill of open-air motoring. This convertible option adds approximately 198 pounds to the coupe's 3461-pound dry weight, primarily due to the complex mechanism of the retractable hardtop and necessary chassis reinforcements, ensuring structural integrity and performance. Inside, both models feature a wraparound cockpit design, creating an immersive environment for the driver. A 'flying-bridge' center console houses the gear selector on a raised platform, maximizing storage space underneath. The infotainment system is seamlessly integrated into the driver's display, eliminating the need for a central touchscreen, while a dedicated passenger screen offers an interactive experience. The steering wheel is adorned with physical switchgear, including the engine start button and the eManettino dial, providing immediate control over various vehicle settings and enhancing the intuitive connection between driver and machine.
For those seeking the ultimate track-focused performance, Ferrari presents the Assetto Fiorano variant. This specialized edition is distinguished by its twin rear wings, which replace the standard twin tails, and an optional central racing stripe, giving it a more aggressive visual stance. The Assetto Fiorano sheds 66 pounds through the extensive use of carbon fiber components and lightweight seats, contributing to an improved power-to-weight ratio. It also features a stiffer suspension setup and comes equipped with high-performance Michelin Cup2 tires, optimized for enhanced grip and handling on the circuit. This variant is designed to amplify the 849 Testarossa's dynamic capabilities, making it an even more potent machine for demanding drivers. While U.S. pricing information is yet to be released, European pricing is set at approximately 460,000 euros for the coupe and 500,000 euros for the Spider. The Assetto Fiorano specification adds an additional 62,000 euros to either model, reflecting its exclusive upgrades. Deliveries for the 849 Testarossa coupe are slated to begin in mid-2026, with the Spider following in the third quarter of the same year, and dealer order books are already open, signaling the high anticipation for this groundbreaking supercar.