Ferrari has launched its FF supercar in India. The FF is Italian car-maker’s first-ever production four-wheel-drive model, a front-engined V12 four-seater GT that not only replaces the 612 two-plus-two coupe globally but also aims to attract a new kind of “all-roads, all-weathers” Ferrari customer.
This new car, dubbed FF for its four seats and four-wheel-drive, is designed by Pininfarina under the direction of Ferrari’s own chief designer, Flavio Manzoni. The first Ferrari of modern times to accommodate four full-sized adults and their luggage which is better suited for India.
The revolutionary Ferrari has an all-new, longer wheelbase chassis with a new-design, all-independent suspension that incorporates the latest-generation magnetically adjustable dampers and standard Brembo carbon ceramic disc brakes.
The four-wheel-drive system, claimed to be around 50 per cent lighter than comparable applications, preserves the desirable rear weight bias of recent V12 Ferraris. Called 4RM (for ‘Ruote Motrici’) the system is unique to Ferrari, using the car’s electronic systems seamlessly to direct torque to the front wheels when slippery conditions demand it, but mostly leaving the car in its desirable (and understeer-free) rear-wheel-drive state.
Though the FF is more versatile than traditional Ferraris, Maranello counters any suggestions that it is “soft” by giving it a newly developed 6.25-litre V12 with just under 10 per cent more swept volume and 22 per cent more power than the 612, and a seven-speed double-clutch gearbox to replace the previous six-speed manual.
The FF also gets the package of efficiency-building measures introduced in the California, including stop-start and smart charging to improve economy by about 10 per cent. The FF engine produces 650bhp at 8000rpm and 69.68kgm of torque (up 16 per cent) at 5000rpm. The car has a claimed top speed of 335kph.
The FF’s graceful lines allow full adult headroom in the rear, and the boot provides 450 litres of space with all passengers aboard, or 800 litres with the rear seats folded, figures which match many four-door models Ferrari has priced the FF at Rs 3.42 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Also watch: Ferrari FF video review