Ferrari 849 Testarossa Expert Review

The Ferrari 849 Testarossa revives one of Ferrari’s most iconic nameplates, but instead of leaning heavily on nostalgia, it reinterprets the legacy with a futuristic approach. The silhouette is sharp and almost concept-car-like, drawing inspiration from Ferrari’s 1970s endurance racers rather than the 1980s Testarossa. 
Its most distinctive element is the twin-tail rear, inspired by the 512 S and 512 M race cars, with an active aerodynamic panel capable of generating up to 100kg of additional downforce. With the optional Assetto Fiorano package, total downforce reaches 415kg at 250kph, while drag is reduced.
The design walks a fine line between homage and reinvention, and while it may divide opinion, it clearly pushes Ferrari’s styling into a new direction.

Inside, the Testarossa carries forward the split-cabin layout seen in Ferrari’s recent models. The focus is squarely on the driver, with a cockpit-style layout and physical buttons returning to the steering wheel for better usability. 
Material quality is predictably high, with a mix of premium finishes and performance-focused detailing. However, practicality remains limited, with minimal storage space and a layout designed more for driving engagement than everyday usability. 
Comfort is secondary to performance, but the cabin still delivers a sense of occasion and craftsmanship expected at this level.

The 849 Testarossa is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 1,050hp.  Performance is staggering. The car accelerates from 0–100kph in about 2.3 seconds, placing it firmly in hypercar territory. 
What stands out is how the hybrid system fills in power gaps. The electric motors eliminate turbo lag and deliver instant response, making even small throttle inputs feel intense. The engine revs to 8,300rpm, and acceleration builds relentlessly across the rev range. 
Refinement is impressive for such an extreme machine. While the V8 is less vocal than some smaller Ferrari engines, the overall power delivery is smooth, immediate and highly controlled.

Efficiency is not a primary focus, but the plug-in hybrid system does offer some level of electrification. A small battery pack allows limited electric driving, though this is more about performance enhancement than fuel saving. The claimed mileage is around 10.75kmpl.

Despite its extreme performance, the Testarossa is surprisingly approachable. It feels stable and predictable, with handling that inspires confidence even at high speeds. Weight distribution is well managed, with mass concentrated between the axles to improve agility. Steering is quick and precise, though not overly nervous, making the car easier to control than its performance figures might suggest. 
The overall driving experience combines immense grip with a reassuring sense of control, allowing drivers to explore its limits without feeling overwhelmed.

The Testarossa integrates advanced electronic systems to manage its performance, including sophisticated traction control, torque vectoring and braking technologies.
Driver-focused controls and updated interfaces improve usability, while the hybrid architecture adds a layer of technological sophistication. The emphasis remains firmly on performance, with features supporting the driving experience rather than comfort or convenience.

Priced at around ₹10.37 crore (ex-showroom), the Testarossa sits at the very top of Ferrari’s production lineup. It replaces the SF90 as Ferrari’s flagship, offering more power, improved aerodynamics and a stronger connection to the brand’s heritage. 
For buyers, The 849 Testarossa ultimately delivers what it promises: a modern Ferrari flagship that reimagines a legacy while pushing performance boundaries further than ever before.