Ferrari has unveiled the 849 Testarossa, a new plug-in hybrid super sports berlinetta that succeeds the SF90 Stradale as the flagship of the range.
At the core of the 849 Testarossa is Ferrari’s latest version of the twin-turbo V8 (project code F154FC). The unit delivers 830 cv with a specific output of 208 cv/L, representing a 50 cv increase over the previous iteration. This was achieved by completely reworking the components, including a new turbocharger, cylinder heads, engine block, exhaust manifolds, intake plenums, titanium fasteners, valve train system, and fuel rail.
The larger turbocharger uses F80-derived low-friction bearings and a turbine casing heat shield inspired by the 296 GT3 for better thermal management. Compressor wheels and turbines were redesigned with new materials and aerodynamics, while calibration strategies help reduce turbo lag and maintain responsiveness. Other updates include a lighter valvetrain, titanium screws, and machining methods from racing engines, improving the weight-to-power ratio by nearly 10% over the SF90 Stradale.
The exhaust system uses Inconel manifolds with larger ducts and increased length to improve performance and deliver Ferrari’s trademark sound. Flexible joints withstand extreme temperatures without adding weight, while integrated GPFs and new ceramic catalytic converters meet regulations without major mass gains. Ferrari has also introduced recycled aluminium alloys for the engine castings, cutting CO₂ emissions linked to production by up to 80%.
The hybrid system adds 220 cv from three electric motors. Two units on the front axle form the RAC-e system, providing all-wheel drive and torque vectoring. The third motor, the MGU-K, is mounted on the rear axle and takes direct influence from Formula 1 technology. The system works in coordination with the V8 through revised calibration, active damping for smoother idle, and optimised cooling maps that improve thermal efficiency by 10–12 °C.
The hybrid layout includes a 7.45 kWh lithium-ion battery installed within the chassis, providing a 25 km electric-only range in eDrive mode. Drivers can also select Hybrid, Performance, or Qualify via the eManettino to adapt performance and efficiency to different conditions. Braking regeneration has been reworked for a smoother pedal feel and a more natural transition between electric and hydraulic braking.
The 849 Testarossa features an on-demand four-wheel drive system with torque vectoring, a new brake-by-wire setup, and Ferrari’s ABS Evo for improved braking precision. Springs and dampers have been revised to sharpen handling at the limit. The car also achieves 415 kg of downforce at 250 km/h—25 kg more than the SF90 Stradale—while cooling efficiency for the powertrain and brakes has been increased by 15%.
Ferrari will also offer the 849 Testarossa with the optional Assetto Fiorano package, designed for maximum track performance. This trim reduces weight by around 30 kg through the use of carbon fibre and titanium. Highlights include lightweight tubular seats in black Alcantara® saving 18 kg, and 20-inch carbon fibre wheels that lower unsprung mass for quicker responses in acceleration and braking.
Related: Ferrari unveils 296 Speciale and Speciale A– A more track-focused version
Aerodynamic upgrades include larger front flicks, new vortex generators under the floor, and twin rear wings with high-incidence profiles. These changes triple vertical downforce compared to the standard car without significantly affecting drag.
The Assetto Fiorano also features stiffer Multimatic dampers, springs that are 35% lighter, and a roll gradient reduced by 10% for sharper handling. Buyers can optionally equip a front lifter, which retains Magneride suspension. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres are available, developed specifically for this trim.
To complete the package, an exclusive livery is offered in Bianco Cervino or Rosso Corsa, featuring a graduated stripe that runs from the bonnet to the rear deck.
The exterior draws inspiration from 1970s Ferrari sports prototypes, featuring sharp, geometric lines that balance aesthetics and aerodynamics. Inside, the cockpit is redesigned with a central sail motif integrating the gear-change gate, a new steering wheel with physical controls, and an updated HMI system for simplified operation.
Ferrari has reworked the acoustic profile of the V8 turbo to create a more powerful and distinctive sound. The exhaust note has been tuned to highlight bright tones in the low- and mid-range, intensifying towards the 8,300 rpm redline. A revised gearshift strategy, derived from the SF90 XX Stradale, enhances the sound experience during upshifts, delivering a more pronounced racing effect, especially in Race mode and beyond.
The revival of the Testarossa name pays tribute to Ferrari history. First appearing in 1956 with the 500 TR to reference red-painted cam covers, it later became associated with one of Ferrari’s most iconic road cars, the 1984 Testarossa.
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