It has just announced a new variant of the 4WD V12 GTC4Lusso. The latest entry, the GTC4Lusso T, will debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show next month, and has a downsized turbocharged V8 engine and drive only to the rear wheels. It’s the first four-seater in the Prancing Horse history to sport a turbo-charged V8.
It comes with four-wheel steering, lighter overall weight and increased weight bias towards the rear (46:54).
The car’s 3.9-litre V8 turbo is the latest evolution to emerge from the engine family that was nominated the 2016 International Engine of the Year. Its maximum power output is 602hp at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque of 760Nm is available at between 3,000 and 5,250 rpm. The new variant delivers less output (-78hp) but more torque (+63Nm) than the V12 mill.
Ferrari says the V8 turbo’s characteristics suit day-to-day driving in urban contexts: a rich powerful soundtrack in acceleration that becomes more muted at lower speeds, rapid pick-up from low revs courtesy of versatile, modular torque delivery and excellent range.
The GTC4Lusso T’s dynamic control systems have been specifically calibrated to boost responsiveness to commands. In particular, the 4WS (rear-wheel steering), which is integrated with Side Slip Control (SSC3), makes for more rapid response to steering wheel inputs entering and exiting corners, thanks to the rear wheels steering in the same direction as the front ones.
The feeling of longitudinal performance in this new model has been enhanced at low speeds by Variable Boost Management and underscored by throttle response with zero turbo lag. Because of variable torque curves (VBM) between 3rd and 7th gear, longitudinal acceleration is consistent through the ratios, increasing smoothly with engine speed, resulting in a feeling of vivid but superbly progressive acceleration.
The GTC4Lusso T’s styling remains the same as the shooting brake coupé, reinterpreting the concept with a streamlined, tapered shape that gives it an almost fastback-like silhouette. The cabin is a melding of distinctive Ferrari styling and the luxurious elegance expected of a four-seater GT.
The GTC4Lusso T features the unique Dual Cockpit architecture, designed to enhance the shared driving experience for both driver and passenger. It also incorporates the latest iteration of the infotainment system complete with an impressive 10.25” HD capacitive touchscreen.
