AWD Purosangue takes Ferrari’s 2+2 architecture to new highs
Before we dig deep into the impressive hardware under the body of Maranello’s new SUV, Ferrari would like remind us all of its illustrious history making touring cars with back seats. The back seat–equipped 250 GT/E, 365s, 456s, FFs, and GTC4 Lussos of Ferrari’s 2+2 past have their fair share of fans, and they clearly set a precedent. Except possibly not, as the Purosangue has four doors. And it’s kinda tall, representing the type of vehicle that is so darn popular these days. What exactly is Ferrari’s game here?
This is heresy for some, and that’s understandable. But the rear doors are hinged at the back for a more unique experience than that of the Lamborghini Urus, showing how far the brand will go to differentiate itself from the competition. (The Ferrari also has a cooler name than the Lambo, as “purosangue” is Italian for thoroughbred.) The rest of the body suggests this is indeed a race horse of impressive specifications, with a long hood and a short rear cargo hold giving it the proportions of something the Sultan of Brunei would pay a 7-figure sum to add to his collection. The proportions ensure a mid-front-engine layout with a 49 percent front, 51 percent rear weight distribution, even with the bulk of an all-wheel drive system and an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
What powers the Purosangue is quite special, especially in today’s age of turbocharging and hybrid electrification: a 6.5-liter V12 with natural aspiration, 715 horsepower, and a 7750-rpm power peak. The motor is similar to the mill found in the 812 Competizione, but Ferrari insists the intake, timing, and exhaust systems are heavily modified to fit the Purosangue’s mission of executive-class touring, with 80 percent of the engine’s torque available at just 2100 rpm. Acceleration to 62 mph from a standstill happens in 3.3 seconds, and the top speed is 193 mph. There might not be a better way to enjoy Ferrari’s legendary soundtrack, provided you wish to share the experience with three other people.
An all-new chassis comprised of aluminum, hollow castings, and carbon fiber is meant to reassure loyalists that appropriate Ferrari tech underpins this sexy skin. Inside is a dual-cockpit dashboard like that of a classic Mustang or C2 Corvette, but with pods sporting the technology of the SF90 Stradale for both driver and passenger. While the Purosangue features “the entirely digital interface” of other Ferraris, these haptic controls have more than their fair share of detractors, who long for traditional buttons. If the lack of tactile switches feels stressful, better pony up for the optional massaging front seats, each of which boasts 10 air bladders and five types of massage at three levels of intensity.
The Purosangue boasts a suspension that Ferrari claims is a first for any automaker, an active dampening affair utilizing Multimatic’s True Active Spool Valve (TASV) technology. The system combines a 48-volt electric motor with a hydraulic damper that claims to offer “more force authority” at a broader range of operation than other systems on the market. Modern Ferraris are known for their downright impressive blend of ride and handling prowess, so perhaps this authority shall extend into the realm of four-door examples, too?
No matter, rear-seat accommodations are similarly uniquely crafted. All four seats sport independent adjustments, while a Burmester 3D audio system is standard equipment. Ferraris says this is the first automotive application of lightweight ribbon tweeters and suggests the enclosed subwoofer can hit “breathtakingly low frequencies.” Find out for yourself, as the Purosangue offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity as standard.
Ferrari owners are used to having the luxury of personalization, and the Purosangue offers either a glass roof or a carbon-fiber affair. The former can be adjusted to be either clear or shaded thanks to electro-sensitive film. The roof options alone suggest that Ferrari really did its homework as to what the market wants, while still holding on to what makes its brand so special.
The Purosangue seems to offer it all for the discerning buyer who kinda wants it all: a naturally aspirated motoring experience with none of the compromises normally found in four-door vehicles that manage without electric driveline motors or turbochargers. While the price has yet to be announced (an 812 with this motor retails for just over $400,000), there’s little doubt that even those who can’t afford it would love to experience the thrilling V-12 engine and that impressive suspension. Because there’s just something about the Purosangue that still feels like a Ferrari.
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