The New 4 x 4 x Ferrari

If you've already heard about it, then you've already got an opinion. If you haven't, then you're about to. Today's shock reveal is the explanation behind the very odd-looking test hacks doing cold weather testing in the hands of Ferrari engineers recently. The Ferrari FF. 'FF' meaning For Four (four seater) and, in a first for a production Ferrari, a four wheel drive transmission layout.

So as one would expect from the 612 Scaglietti replacement, it's got four seats, though more interior space from an idential road footprint, more power, up 22% from the 612 to give a sonorous V12 with a 599 GTO-chasing 651 bhp. Garnishing the package mechanically are the standard Ferrari ceramic brake systems and a seven speed dual clutch transmission. It's the all wheel drive that will get motoring forums chattering the world over though. Like the systems seen in ordinary soft-roaders, just working in the opposite configuration, the FF is maintained in an anti-understeer, performance orientated rear wheel drive state until the stability control systems (dubbed here by Ferrari as 4RM) sense slip in the front wheels and channel a portion of the power forwards, pulling the nose back into line and increasing traction. It's very trick stuff, and added to the fact that the FF comes in 50kg lighter than the RWD 612, is undeniably impressive. In addition to the low weight, the more advanced launch control and power output give the FF superior perfomance figures to the tune of 0-62 in 3.7, and 208mph flat out, the first time a four seat Fezza has officially been able to achieve the double ton. Further engineering voodoo allows the FF's naturally aspirated motor to produce more torque and less CO2 than its predecessor, and while potential customers may not be fussed about a 5mpg improvement, it looks good on Ferrari's behalf.

Ah yes, the customer. Ferrari are pitching the FF (surely it needs a more emotive name) as an alternative to AWD saloons and premium SUVs used in winter environments and holidays - attarcting a new "all roads, all weathers Ferrari customer." This is perhaps the contentious part. Audi proved with the R8 that an exotic car can have the merits of AWD, ie better traction and stability and yet be just as playful as a RWD car, while Porsche have been using it to control the 911 Turbo for decades. Quattro is now an integral part of the Lamborghini brand under Audi. This is under the assumption that the cars are better for having four driven wheels in all environments, not merely to apply to one demographic of customer who wants to find the limits of drivability on the way to his ski break. Like the fashionably folding roofed California, the FF does prove further than unlike ten years ago, when Ferrari made desirable fast cars and the customer comprimised for them in order to enjoy the privilege of owning a Prancing Horse, now Ferrari are chasing customers and being dictated to themselves.

Should probably wrap up with a word for the styling. These studio based shots invariably make cars appear more plain than the do when photographed in 'real life' but to these eyes the FF is quite a success, proving the 458 was no fluke. The Italia-esque headlights and grille make for a less garish face than either the 599 GTB or the 612, and the rear is tidy too.

The profile is interesting, with hints of the 250 GTO Drogo or 'Breadvan' from the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans. Clearly the shape has allowed a good mix of beauty, aerodynamics and interior space, but I immediately likened it to something a little less cultured, more controversial, as have many motor website members around the world. See the resemblance?

Speaking of new car updates, my own latest acquisition will be gracing these pages soon... but it's not a Z3 M Coupe.