Ferrari Testarossa returns as 210mph 1,035bhp PHEV
Ferrari has revived its iconic Testarossa as a 1,035bhp plug-in hybrid capable of 0-62mph in just 2.35 seconds, and a top speed of more than 210mph.
Serving as a replacement for the SF90, the Ferrari 849 Testarossa PHEV sits beneath the limited edition, flagship F80 in the hierarchy of Maranello’s mid-engined supercars.
The 849 Testarossa’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 and plug-in hybrid system are derived from the SF90, yet both have been thoroughly re-worked to give the 849 Testarossa 48bhp more than its predecessor.
Alone, the V8 produces 818bhp and 621lb ft of torque, more than twice that of the original Testarossa of the 1980s. In terms of EV components, the tri-motor setup of the SF90 remains with two motors on the front axle and one at the rear. Combined, they produce 217bhp – the same output as the SF90’s PHEV system.
However, Ferrari says its has improved the 849 Testarossa’s natural pedal feel under brake regeneration, as well as the PHEV unit’s thermal efficiency to widen the performance band of the three electric motors. Despite the changes, all-electric range stands at 15 miles courtesy of a 7.45kWh battery – again, unchanged from the SF90.
As you’ve probably noticed by now, the plug-in hybrid 849 Testarossa is a development of what made the SF90 one of the all-time great Maranello cars. With a 45/55 weight distribution and 1,570kg kerb weight, the 849 Testarossa is exactly the same as the SF90 in this regard.
Ferrari has sought to focus on “increasing power, tyre grip, and response” and has tweaked its latest underpinnings with bigger brake discs and pads all-round, suspension springs that are 35% lighter than those on the SF90, a smoother acceleration map in third gear, and a selection of Michelin, Pirelli, or Bridgestone tyres.
Inside, the 849 Testarossa gets a driver-focused layout with almost wraparound dashboard with a central arm-mounted gear selectors. To manage the car’s HVAC system, there’s a small touch screen and an Apple CarPlay/Android Auto-ready digital driver display.
On the steering wheel sits Ferrari’s usual eManettino switch, allowing the driver to switch between eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify. In silly ‘Qualify’ mode, the SF90 can pound around Ferrari’s exclusive Fiorano test track just 0.2 seconds slower than the circuit-focused SF90 XX.
The 849 Testarossa’s performance is largely down to its aerodynamic profile, which is capable of producing 415kg’s worth at 155mph. Ferrari says that 35% of its plug-in hybrid supercar’s downforce is generated by its underbody outwash and a new diffuser, while the rear wing – switchable between ‘low drag’ and ‘high downforce’ configurations can produce up to 100kg in the latter mode.
Ferrari has yet to confirm UK pricing for the Testarossa, but in Europe it will start at €460,000 (£398,260) for the coupé and €500,000 (£432,890) for the drop-top spider. The even more performance-focused Assetto Fiorano package adds on a further €52,500 (£45,450) to the original price.
On October 9 this year, Ferrari is set to launch its first all-electric model, which is rumoured to be an SUV riding on modified Maserari Levante underpinnings.
