Ferrari F450

It's Ferrari's best selling model – but even the F430 could do with some updates. So here's our best glimpse yet at its replacement, which we've spied undergoing winter testing.

Codenamed F142 by Ferrari insiders, it's likely that the finished article will carry the F450 badge, a moniker that refers to its new, larger 4.5-litre V8 engine. Likely to produce in excess of 500bhp the new model will be even faster with a 0-60mph time of less than four seconds.

As you can see from this development prototype, significant changes will be made to the chassis with a longer wheelbase and a wider track, promoting stability and grip. Bigger side and rear air intakes will add even more drama to the styling and help cool the enlarged engine, while a modified exhaust system should provide a sublime soundtrack.

Don't be surprised to find the F450 is a lot greener than its predecessor too with a brake energy regeneration system, similar to that fitted to the firm's 2009 Formula One cars, increased use of carbonfibre to shed weight and lower emissions and fuel consumption as a result.

Expect to see the newcomer next year with sales starting in 2011.