Ferrari FF 6.3L V12

The FF has its engine--a big 6.3L V12, making 651 horsepower and 504 pound-feet of torque--mounted in a 'mid-front' position, meaning at the front of the car, but with its center of mass behind the front wheels; that helps give it especially balanced dynamics near the limits of adhesion. Overall, the FF's weight distribution is an impressive 47/53 percent (front/rear), and its total curb weight is just 4,140 pounds. The V12 delivers its power through a 7-speed F1 dual-clutch gearbox, allowing a 0-62 mph time of just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 208 mph.

Torque is delivered to the wheels through a complex new 4-wheel drive system called 4RM. In the FF, the system is designed mainly for all-weather traction, and it still delivers all torque to the rear wheels when there are no issues with traction, or at high speeds, but with a Power Transfer Unit it sends enough to the front wheels when needed for grip--sending it to all four wheels individually through the FF's stability control electronics. Underpinning the FF is a lightweight structure, with a suspension of front control arms and a multi-link setup in back. An adjustable damping system lets you switch to a firmer mode for performance or track driving, while carbon ceramic brakes save weight and provide more confident stopping.

And when you're just puttering along in stop-and-go traffic, the FF's stop-start system, which automatically turns the engine off momentarily, then back on when you're ready to go, helps save fuel. The hatchback design of the FF provides a level of interior space and comfort not usually afforded in a Ferrari. There's seating for four adults in this two-door car--in soft aniline leather--as well as enough cargo space for a weekend, and the rear seatbacks are split and fold forward to accommodate more cargo. Standard equipment on the FF includes a 6.5-inch touch-screen system with navigation and 3D map displays, plus Bluetooth hands-free calling integration as well as audio streaming.

A dual-zone climate control system is also included. Some of the many options on the FF include a coordinated luggage kit, rear-seat DVD infotainment system with two separate screens, and a Quantumlogic Surround Sound system with 1,280 watts and 16 channels. And of course in the FF, as in other Ferrari's, there's a long list of possible upgrades, in terms of wheels, special trims, upholsteries and inserts.

The FF is an all-new Ferrari, with an unusual layout for the Italian sports-car builder: As a 2-door hatchback (or wagon, or shooting brake), the FF is built on an aluminum space frame, and in keeping with what its name stands for, Ferrari Four, the FF is Ferrari's first 4-wheel-drive car. he Ferrari FF officially replaces the 612 Scaglietti in the Italian automaker's lineup; but it actually competes with a much larger playing field of alternatives than its predecessor--including the likes of the Porsche Panamera 4, the Bentley Continental GT and the Aston Martin DBS. It should appeal to a different type of buyer--one who wants the exclusivity of Ferrari ownership but in a somewhat more practical, accessible package.