>> Unveiled, the 849 Testarossa, the new Ferrari plug-in hybrid berlinetta with a mid-rear V8 twin-turbo engine that further elevates the performance heights of the SF90 Stradale
>> The car’s name draws on a 70-year heritage of some of the most iconic Ferraris ever built
>> The V8 engine, now delivering 830 cv, has been completely revised to increase maximum power by 50 cv
>> New solutions derived from the racing world and a redesigned active spoiler increase the 849 Testarossa’s downforce
>> The introduction of ABS Evo and the new FIVE estimator make the 849 Testarossa’s electronic controls the most advanced in the Ferrari range

Milan, September 09, 2025 – Ferrari has unveiled the 849 Testarossa, a hybrid plug-in super sports berlinetta that replaces the SF90 Stradale. Equipped with three electric motors and a re-engineered twin-turbo V8, it delivers 1050 cv—50 more than its predecessor—placing it at the top of Ferrari’s range. Combining thrilling performance with comfort and refinement, the car revives the legendary “Testa Rossa” name, first used in 1956 and later made famous by the 1984 Testarossa. Its hybrid system, derived from Ferrari’s motorsport expertise, includes the brand’s largest-ever turbo, a rear electric motor, and two front-axle units for a total of 220 cv, enabling on-demand all-wheel drive and torque vectoring for maximum performance.

Dynamic qualities are further enhanced by Ferrari’s ABS Evo controller, revised suspension, and a new brake-by-wire system, while weight reduction ensures the best-ever power-to-weight ratio for a range model. The 849 Testarossa also introduces a bold new design inspired by 1970s Sports Prototypes, with sharp lines that merge form and function to deliver 415 kg of downforce at 250 km/h and improved cooling. Inside, the cockpit is more ergonomic and immersive, featuring a redesigned central sail with integrated gear-change gate, a new steering wheel with mechanical buttons including the iconic start button, and an updated HMI system for more intuitive control.

POWERTRAIN
The 849 Testarossa is equipped with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system consisting of the 830 cv twin-turbo V8 engine combined with three electric motors, a high-voltage battery, and an inverter that together deliver a total output of 220 cv. This system brings the total power of the powertrain up to 1050 cv, an absolute record for a production Ferrari. The architecture of the 849 Testarossa's plug-in hybrid powertrain has been designed to ensure maximum performance, vehicle dynamics, and usability.

INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE
The 849 Testarossa’s new twin-turbo V8 engine (F154FC) delivers 830 cv, 50 more than before, with an impressive 208 cv per litre. Ferrari achieved this by redesigning many parts, including a larger turbocharger with racing-inspired bearings, new cylinder heads, intake systems, and exhaust manifolds. Turbo lag is reduced thanks to optimized aerodynamics and improved calibration, while a new intercooler boosts thermal efficiency. Despite the power increase, lightweight parts such as titanium screws and machined camshafts keep the engine lighter, improving the weight-to-power ratio by almost 10% compared to the SF90 Stradale.

The exhaust system uses stronger, heat-resistant Inconel® with larger ducts for better performance and Ferrari’s signature sound, while new catalytic converters meet regulations without extra weight. For the first time on a Ferrari range car, recycled aluminium is used in major castings like the cylinder head and sump, cutting CO₂ emissions from aluminium production by up to 80%—a saving of about 0.4 tons per car. These upgrades give the 849 Testarossa more power, efficiency, and sustainability without sacrificing Ferrari’s trademark character.

ELECTRIC MOTORS AND HYBRID SYSTEM
The 849 Testarossa uses a plug-in hybrid system based on the SF90 Stradale, pairing its V8 engine with three electric motors for a combined 220 hp. Two motors on the front axle form the RAC-e system, enabling 4WD and torque vectoring for better traction out of corners, while a rear MGU-K motor comes directly from Formula 1 technology. The system has been refined for smoother performance, with optimized calibration to work seamlessly with the V8, new active damping to stabilize engine idle, and improved cooling maps that keep electric output consistent even under heavy use.

Braking has also been enhanced with a revised regeneration strategy that delivers smoother pedal feel and a more natural blend of electric and hydraulic braking. Energy management adapts to four driving modes selected via the eManettino — eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify — ensuring efficiency or maximum power depending on conditions. In eDrive mode, the 7.45 kWh battery allows up to 25 km of all-electric driving, while being mounted low in the chassis to improve balance and handling.

SOUND
The 849 Testarossa debuts a refined sound profile that captures the essence of Ferrari’s V8 character. The engine’s timbre has been tuned for clarity and recognisability in all conditions, with richer tones in the low and mid ranges and a brighter, purer sound under acceleration. As revs climb toward the 8,300 rpm limiter, the flat-crank V8 delivers an explosive mix of sound, vibration, and acceleration for a fully immersive experience.

Its gear shift strategy, inspired by the SF90 XX Stradale, has been recalibrated to heighten excitement during upshifts. By synchronising engine calibration with gearbox logic, the system intensifies sound through precise combustion pressure management, especially at medium revs and loads. This creates a racing-like effect, further amplified when the Manettino is set to ‘Race’ or beyond, giving shifts a sharper, more dramatic acoustic signature.

AERODYNAMICS
The 849 Testarossa’s aerodynamics were developed to boost both cooling and downforce, drawing inspiration from Ferrari icons like the 512 S, 512 M, and FXX-K. It generates 415 kg of load at 250 km/h—25 kg more than the SF90 Stradale—while improving cooling efficiency by 15%. Airflow management is central: sculpted body flanks channel 30% more air to the intercoolers, with additional feeds for the brakes and engine intake. The redesigned front underfloor, equipped with cascading vortex generators, increases downforce by 20%, while a larger splitter with an SF90 XX Stradale-inspired flick provides another 10%.

At the rear, a twin-tail design inspired by the 512 S and an active spoiler (lighter and faster than before) generate up to 100 kg of downforce in High Downforce mode. The rear diffuser, with multi-level channels and vortex generators, maximizes expansion and reduces drag by 10%. Together with the revised front and side aero elements, these solutions ensure optimal balance, stability, and efficiency, giving the 849 Testarossa both higher performance and stronger racing DNA.

THERMAL SYSTEM
To handle the 50 cv power increase, the 849 Testarossa required a 15% boost in heat dissipation capacity. The coolant radiators were redesigned with asymmetrical geometry, providing 18% more surface area, while the hybrid radiator was adapted to fit the new front layout. The side intercoolers, derived from the F80, gained 19% more surface area with reduced inclination for better packaging. Airflow was also improved: the front intake is 18% larger, with vertical baffles and integrated brake ducts for better separation of flows and added structural rigidity. Optimised vents in the wheelarches and underfloor aid air extraction, while new slots and vents at the rear improve cooling and reduce drag by evacuating hot air from the engine bay and wheel housings.

Brake cooling was also upgraded to match the car’s increased stopping power. At the front, integrated intakes, redesigned fairings, and a deflector under the wishbone deliver 15% more air to the calipers and discs. At the rear, a new intake integrated into the flank increases cooling airflow by 70% to the larger calipers. Additional slots around the spoiler and bumper further ventilate the engine compartment and electronics, ensuring consistent thermal management during extreme use.

VEHICLE DYNAMICS
The 849 Testarossa’s vehicle dynamics were designed to combine higher performance with greater consistency and accessibility, while maintaining driving pleasure. Compared to the SF90 Stradale, it gains improvements in power, grip, braking, and electronic control precision thanks to the Ferrari Integrated Vehicle Estimator (FIVE). Driver feedback was refined across five key areas—acceleration, braking, gearchange, handling, and sound—with faster throttle response, higher peak power, sharper suspension geometry, smoother gearshifts, and ABS Evo for more precise braking. The sound has also been tuned to track throttle input more faithfully through the rev range.

The FIVE digital twin system estimates speed, yaw angle, and other parameters in real time, enhancing the precision of traction, differential, and 4WD management. ABS Evo uses these calculations to optimise braking balance across all conditions, enabling later and harder braking. Larger discs, new rear calipers, and better cooling improve durability, while lighter springs, optimised damping, and reduced roll sharpen handling and stability. With upgraded tyres and extensive weight savings—offsetting over 20 kg of added components—the 849 Testarossa achieves Ferrari’s best-ever power-to-weight ratio, delivering 3% higher cornering performance and stronger acceleration above 5,500 rpm without compromising low-end response.

TYRES
The tyres, as per Ferrari tradition, have been co-developed through intense refinement work in collaboration with Michelin, Pirelli and Bridgestone. This co-development has produced specific solutions for the most diverse needs. Available technologies include Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2R (on request), Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 (Assetto Fiorano), Pirelli PZero R (standard) and Bridgestone Potenza Sport (standard, also in run-flat version). Each solution has been co-designed through joint virtual and physical sessions to ensure optimal performance in various contexts, with a focus on maintaining driving emotions, increasing pure performance and behaviour in medium-grip conditions. The measures adopted are 265/35 R20 at the front and 325/30 R20 at the rear.

ADAS
The driver assistance systems have been integrated to increase comfort and safety, intervening only in emergency situations and in the least invasive way possible, only when the driver needs it. They are fully configurable via the instrument cluster menus, and their features include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Automatic Emergency Braking with Cyclist Detection, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Automatic High Beam, Traffic Sign Recognition, Surround View, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and driver fatigue monitoring.

STYLING

EXTERIOR
The 849 Testarossa, designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre under Flavio Manzoni, reimagines the SF90 Stradale with a futuristic, aeronautics-inspired language rooted in Ferrari’s 1970s Sports Prototypes. Its sculptural yet technical design balances vertical and transverse lines for a bold, architectural presence. The flank is defined by a deeply sculpted door panel, created as a single aluminium moulding, which doubles as an aerodynamic duct. The contrasting black side intake feeds the intercooler while visually reinforcing the car’s three-dimensional livery. The crease line flows into a cab-forward double-tail design inspired by the 512 S, giving the car a compact, dynamic stance.

At the front, structured volumes and a horizontal fascia link the headlights, recalling 1980s Ferrari forms while creating a full-width spoiler effect. The rear is dominated by the dual-tail architecture integrated with the active wing, paired with sculpted bumpers, round tailpipes, and a pronounced diffuser for a performance-focused look. In plan view, the harmony of front flicks and twin tails defines the car’s outline, with the rear screen blending into the tails to accentuate the forward cabin. Custom forged wheels, developed with the aerodynamics team, feature functional profiles and diamond-cut details to optimise airflow while offering aesthetic flexibility.

INTERIOR
The 849 Testarossa’s interior blends the layout of a berlinetta with the feel of a single-seater cockpit. The dashboard has a floating upper section with C-shaped aluminium-framed vents, while a contrasting horizontal band integrates key controls and the passenger screen. Below, two sculptural sail motifs house additional functions, with the F80-inspired gear gate positioned within the driver’s side sail. The central tunnel has been redesigned for a cleaner, more minimalist layout, while the sail theme continues on the door panels, which incorporate both the woofer and door pull in a single element.

Ergonomics and space have been improved by reshaping the lower door areas, freeing up room for the glove box and rear bench. Seat options include comfort seats with sculpted upholstery that mirrors the cockpit’s geometry, or lightweight carbon-fibre racing seats with enhanced lateral support. Both designs combine style with careful ergonomic study, ensuring functionality without sacrificing Ferrari’s signature sense of drama.

HMI
The steering wheel of the 849 Testarossa integrates digital and analogue functions: the mechanical controls already seen on the F80 have been carried over, including the iconic Engine Start button, while the digital cluster allows the rapid reconfiguration of the electric driving modes (via the eManettino).

The user interface is designed to concentrate functions around the driver, with an enveloping effect that also involves the door panel and the central tunnel. The passenger area formally takes up this effect, less explicitly. Connectivity is guaranteed by compatibility with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®, while wireless charging for smartphones is integrated into the central tunnel. The car is also equipped with the MyFerrari Connect system, which allows the vehicle to be monitored remotely via a dedicated App.

ASSETTO FIORANO
The Assetto Fiorano trim is an optional configuration of the 849 Testarossa designed to maximise performance through weight reduction, aerodynamics, and vehicle dynamics upgrades. Around 30 kg is saved thanks to carbon fibre and titanium components, including lightweight tubular seats in black Alcantara (18 kg lighter than standard) and 20” carbon fibre wheels that cut unsprung mass for sharper handling. Aerodynamic changes include larger front flicks, extra vortex generators under the floor, and twin wings at the rear with high-incidence profiles and vertical endplates. This setup triples rear downforce compared to the standard twin-tail design without significantly increasing drag.

Dynamics are further enhanced with stiffer Multimatic dampers, 35% lighter springs, and a 10% reduction in roll gradient for better body control. Buyers can also opt for a front lifter with Magneride suspension and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres developed specifically for this version to deliver maximum grip and consistency on track. The Assetto Fiorano can be finished with an exclusive livery in Bianco Cervino or Rosso Corsa, featuring a gradient double-stripe motif running from bonnet to rear deck for a modern reinterpretation of Ferrari’s racing heritage.

PERSONALISATION OPTIONS
The 849 Testarossa offers extensive personalisation options to highlight both its sporty character and unique identity. Two new exclusive colours debut with the car: Rosso Fiammante, a metallic evolution of the classic Rosso Corsa that glows warmly under sunlight, and Giallo Ambra, a rich amber-inspired yellow with reddish undertones. Inside, Ferrari introduces a new Alcantara trim called Giallo Siena, created to pair with Giallo Ambra while providing a modern yet relaxing atmosphere in the cabin.

Further customisation extends to the forged rims, developed in collaboration with the aerodynamics team. Their intricate geometries are available in multiple finishes and configurations, allowing owners to tailor both aesthetics and performance details to personal preference.

7 YEARS MAINTENANCE
The 849 Testarossa comes with Ferrari’s extended 7-year Genuine Maintenance Programme, which covers all regular servicing with original parts, advanced diagnostics, and work performed by Maranello-trained technicians. This programme ensures peak performance and safety over time, and is available worldwide, not only for new cars but also for pre-owned Ferraris purchased through official channels.

For hybrid models, Ferrari also offers two dedicated after-sales programmes. The Warranty Extension Hybrid provides full factory-backed coverage beyond the standard five-year hybrid warranty, with the option of free HVB (high-voltage battery) replacement if extended to the eighth year. The Power Hybrid programme then covers all major powertrain and hybrid components from year 8 to year 16, also including a complimentary HVB replacement in year 16, ensuring long-term performance and peace of mind for clients.

For 849 Testarossa Spider model, click here.

SOURCE: FERRARA MEDIA CENTRE

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