Ferrari reveals 488 GTB at Geneva

Ferrari will unveil its new 4888 GTB at the Geneva Motor Show. 40 years on from the launch of its first mid-rear-engined V8 berlinetta, the 308, the 488 GTB opens a new chapter in the history of cars with this particular architecture.

The 488 GTB's revolutionary proprietary solutions deliver a car at the top of its class in terms of power output, with engine and command response times of just 0.8 and 0.06 seconds, respectively. The company claims that "sophisticated dynamic vehicle controls make this massive power completely controllable even on the limit by drivers of all abilities, resulting in the unique driving pleasure that only a Ferrari can deliver."

Ferrari drew extensively on its experience in racing and the XX program in which Ferrari's technicians have developed a unique knowledge of the dynamic behavior of extreme cars driven by non-professional drivers.

The 488 in the car's moniker indicates the engine's unitary displacement, while the GTB stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta, a reference to its deep roots in Ferrari history.

Designed by the Ferrari Style Center, the 488 GTB's sculptural forms are completely new. They accentuate the car's sportiness yet retain the classically clean, pure lines typical of Ferrari's egendary styling. The seamless interweaving of form and function is clear in every detail, in fact. Certain design elements are also obvious nods to the past, not least the 308 GTB-inspired styling of the flanks. The extreme power required by the car is delivered by the new 3902 cm3 turbo engine which is coupled with a seven-gear F1 dual-clutch gearbox featuring Variable Boost Management which optimally distributes torque (a maximum 760 Nm in seventh gear). "The 488 GTB guarantees exuberant performance that is absolutely exploitable to the fullest regardless of driving conditions and is accompanied by a deep, seductive soundtrack, the signature of all Ferrari engines," the company says.

The 488 GTB's revolutionary aerodynamics incorporate patented solutions, such as the blown rear spoiler, as well as innovative features like the 458 GT-derived aerodynamic underbody with vortex generators. The result is a new efficiency record for a Ferrari (E=1.67). Downforce increases to 325 kg at 250 km/h, thanks in part to active aerodynamic devices which reduce drag while simultaneously generating downforce when required.

The 488 GTB's dynamic vehicle controls have also been further evolved. It sports a new version of the Side Slip Control System (SSC2) which, aside from just integrating with the car's F1-Trac and E-Diff, now also controls the active dampers. This renders the 488 GTB's dynamic behavior during complex maneuvers even flatter and more stable, so that less expert drivers can enjoy its potential to the fullest, resulting in an astonishingly engaging driving experience.

The 488 GTB makes its debut in a new Rosso Corsa Met livery with black and red technical fabric cabin trim, and in a Grigio Ferro Met livery with black and Beige Tradizione leather interior trim.