Ferrari has pulled the covers off its new flagship, the 849 Testarossa, a plug-in hybrid super sports berlinetta that replaces the SF90 Stradale. With 1,050 cv on tap from its twin-turbo V8 and three electric motors, it’s the most powerful production Ferrari yet – and the return of a name that defined an era.
The Testarossa badge first appeared in 1956, named for the red-painted cam covers on Ferrari’s racing engines. It later became a cultural icon in the 1980s. Now, the legend is back, reborn for 2026 as a futuristic machine rooted in Ferrari’s racing DNA.
Powertrain: V8 Muscle Meets Hybrid Mastery
At its core is a re-engineered 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 830 cv alone – 50 more than the SF90. It’s joined by a trio of electric motors: one on the rear axle and two on the front, together producing an additional 220 cv. The result? A combined 1,050 cv and a 0–100 km/h sprint in under 2.3 seconds.
The front motors enable on-demand all-wheel drive and torque vectoring, while the rear MGU-K unit draws directly from Ferrari’s F1 know-how. A 7.45 kWh lithium-ion battery allows up to 25 km of pure electric driving in eDrive mode.
Despite the extra performance, Ferrari kept the weight in check. At 1,570 kg dry, the 849 Testarossa matches the SF90 Stradale, boasting Ferrari’s best-ever power-to-weight ratio: 1.5 kg/cv.
Engineering Highlights
- ABS Evo & FIVE digital twin system: advanced electronic control for braking and handling, with real-time predictive calculations.
- New braking system: larger carbon-ceramic discs with improved ventilation and thermal management.
- Revised suspension: lighter springs, multi-link geometry, and adaptive damping for sharper handling without sacrificing comfort.
- Regenerative braking: smoother pedal feel, improved energy recovery.
This is a car designed not just to go fast, but to let the driver push to the absolute limit with confidence.
Aerodynamics & Thermal Management
Design isn’t just about beauty – it’s about air. The 849 Testarossa generates 415 kg of downforce at 250 km/h, 25 kg more than the SF90.
- Front underfloor: redesigned with vortex generators for 20% more downforce.
- Twin-tail rear architecture: inspired by the 512 S, paired with an active spoiler for instant downforce changes.
- Cooling upgrades: 15% more thermal dissipation, with larger intercoolers and optimised airflow channels for the V8, hybrid system and brakes.
The result is sharper handling, stronger braking, and relentless performance even under extreme track use.
Styling: Futuristic with Historic Roots
Designed by Flavio Manzoni’s Ferrari Styling Centre, the 849 Testarossa reimagines the mid-rear V8 berlinetta. Its geometric, sculptural lines take inspiration from the 1970s Sports Prototypes and the 1980s Testarossa, yet push into futuristic territory.
Key design cues:
- Three-dimensional doors that double as aerodynamic ducts.
- Bridge-like fascia connecting slim headlights, echoing 1980s Ferrari DNA.
- Twin-tail rear design with active aero integration.
- Forged aero wheels with diamond-cut detailing.
Inside, the cabin balances Ferrari tradition with next-gen ergonomics. The floating dashboard features ‘C’-shaped vents, a new gear gate motif inspired by the F80, and a fully digital HMI. The steering wheel keeps Ferrari’s iconic physical start button while adding instant control over driving and eManettino hybrid modes.
Sound: A New Ferrari Voice
Ferrari engineers worked hard to make sure the hybrid V8 sings like a Ferrari should. The new exhaust system, with larger Inconel manifolds, gives a richer, purer sound – especially in the mid-range – while upshifts deliver a racing-style crack borrowed from the SF90 XX Stradale.
Assetto Fiorano: Track-Focused
For clients who want maximum performance, the Assetto Fiorano pack drops 30 kg with carbon-fibre seats, titanium springs, and optional carbon wheels. Aerodynamics are also upgraded, with larger flicks up front and twin wings at the rear that triple downforce compared to the standard twin-tail.
Personalisation
The 849 Testarossa launches with two new colours:
- Rosso Fiammante – a metallic evolution of Rosso Corsa.
- Giallo Ambra – a deep, warm amber with red undertones.
Inside, Giallo Siena Alcantara trim debuts, matching the new exterior palette.
Ownership & Aftercare
Every 849 Testarossa comes with Ferrari’s 7-year maintenance programme, covering all routine servicing worldwide. Hybrid models also benefit from 5-year hybrid component warranty, extendable to 16 years with Ferrari’s Power Hybrid plan – including free HV battery replacement at year 16.
Performance at a Glance
- Max power: 1,050 cv
- 0–100 km/h: <2.3 s
- Top speed: >330 km/h
- Dry weight: 1,570 kg
- Downforce: 415 kg @ 250 km/h
- eDrive range: 25 km
