If you remember correctly, the Italian automaker, Ferrari, released a couple of teaser images only yesterday. It was believed that the teaser images depicted what would essentially become the facelifted version of the company’s 458 Italia, namely the 458 M, with the M representing Modificata. Yet, as it turns out, the new prancing horse from Italy is not going to bear that moniker but another one instead. Welcome the Ferrari 488 GTB!
Believed to be a facelift, this new vehicle from the Maranello-based factory is really not just a facelift of the Ferrari 458. It has received modifications on quite a few places, such as the engine. Speaking of which, unlike its predecessor, the vehicle does not utilize a naturally aspirated engine. Its place has been taken by a 3.9L V8 engine with twin turbochargers instead. This engine sends power to the rear wheels of the vehicle with the help of a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) system. This transmission system has been designed to offer variable torque management. In addition to that, Ferrari has also programmed the gear ratios such that the moment the driver of the car floors the throttle, the car will have outstandingly progressive acceleration. Ferrari also claims that the car will have a clear, full and really distinctive soundtrack. To be honest, this is not impossible at all, considering that the engine delivers 670 hp and 760 Nm of power and torque, respectively, at its peak performance.
With such a powerful engine, owners of the new prancing horse from Italy will be able to go from a standstill to the speed mark of 100 km/h in just 3 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in just 8.3 seconds and its top speed goes beyond the mark of 330 km/h.
Enough with performance, it is time to take a look at the visual design of the new Italian prancing horse. To begin with, the car sports large air intakes that seem to pay tribute to the company’s past 308 GTB. However, this time around, the air intakes are divided into two sections by a front splitter.
In addition to those large air intakes, the Ferrari 488 GTB also comes with a blown spoiler and a wide front spoiler meant to collaboratively improve downforce, together with a rear diffuser that features active flaps. Other noticeable components include the slightly redesigned LED headlamps and taillights.
Inside the cabin, the car features components similar to those of its predecessor, with some new additions. These additions include things like a redesigned instrument panel, body-hugging seats, angled air vents, satellite control panel and a vehicle infotainment system with a new interface.
Ferrari has officially unveiled that it will bring the 488 GTB to this year’s Geneva Motor Show event. In addition to that, the company also points out that a Spider version – yes, that’s an open-top version – will be coming in September this year, most likely when the Frankfurt Motor Show kicks off.
