As revolutions go, the FF is a complete reinvention of everything that Ferrari stands for. For starters, there's the name. FF stands for Ferrari Four, which refers to the four-seater cabin and four-wheel-drive running gear.
OK, so Ferrari has built four-seaters before – such as the 612 Scaglietti, which the FF replaces – it’s built front-engined GT cars, and it’s even had a go at making something with four-wheel drive (a prototype, built in the Eighties), but never has it combined all of this in the same machine.
The front-engined, shooting brake-bodied FF also marks the beginning of a radical new chapter in the firm’s history. Officially, the car is designed to take the lucky few from home to the snow-covered roads of Europe’s top ski resorts – but behind this lies Ferrari’s desire to grow in markets such as China, India and Russia, where big cars are big business.
The big question is, is it any good?
The FF gets off to a promising start. There has been plenty of debate about the appeal of its design. However, in the metal, the FF’s carefully judged proportions and delicate surfacing ensure the model has no problem turning heads.
As well as the familiar Ferrari red, there's a palette of new colours to choose from, including something that looks distinctly like a British Racing Green. At just 40mm shorter than the 612 Scaglietti, the FF is one of the biggest cars Ferrari has ever built, and there's no escaping its road presence, no matter what colour it's in.
Inside, the cabin is equally impressive. As you open the door for the first time, it's the quality you notice first. The rear seats will just about hold an adult, but most of the space in the back is reserved for the vast 450-litre boot.
In terms of driver appeal, soft leathers, brushed alloy trim, and bright red detailing on the instrument panel ensure the cockpit is every bit as inviting as one of Ferrari’s famous mid-engined coupés – albeit for very different reasons. However, if the space, design and comfort on offer in the interior suggests luxury and refinement on a previously unimagined scale, then think again.
At the heart of the FF is the new seven-speed, semi-automatic, four-wheel drive transmission. It was patented by Ferrari seven years ago, and it’s taken the firm that long to develop it into a system that's does the Italian firm's sporting pedigree justice.
Unlike conventional four-wheel-drive systems, which are driven through a single gearbox and rely on propshafts and differentials, the FF’s set-up uses a conventional seven-speed gearbox on the rear axle, and adds a second gearbox, with two gears, that's bolted to the front of the engine.
Described as a power take off unit, or PTU, energy is drawn directly from the crank, and then fed to the front wheels through a pair of wet clutches. As a result, it's lighter and more controllable than a traditional 4WD set-up.
The PTU’s gearing is set slightly higher than that of the standard gearbox that transmits power to the rear wheels, so to equalize the speed between front and rear axles, the clutches continually slip. The system only works when the rear wheels begin to spin, and each front wheel can be controlled independently.
The front wheels can also 'overspeed', meaning that they run even faster than the rear wheels. This means Ferrari can introduce something called torque vectoring – a kind of advanced traction control that uses engine power to improve grip, rather than just brakes, as a conventional ESP system does.
Science lesson over…
With a staggering 651bhp, the 6.3-litre V12 FF is one of the most powerful cars the firm has ever built – nearly as potent as the Enzo – and has performance figures to match. The 0-62mph sprint is covered in 3.7 seconds, while top speed is 208mph. So it's no surprise that Ferrari is billing this as the world’s fastest GT car.
A press of the steering-wheel mounted starter button fires the V12 engine into life. And it sounds absolutely glorious.
The controls are light, particularly the steering, while the control-laden wheel takes inspiration directly from Ferrari's F1 cars, and groups the advanced Manettino suspension, gearbox and traction control system together.
From rest, the operation of the four-wheel-drive system is virtually imperceptible, no matter what the road conditions are. In fact, often the only way to tell it’s working is from the dash-mounted screen. This displays a picture of the car which shows where power is being delivered. Most of the time it shows drive is going to the rear wheels, but when grip decreases, the display shows when all four wheels are being driven.
Apart from a very slight vibration through the pedals when you move off on slippery surfaces as the clutches engage, you never feel when power is being transferred. The gearbox is a masterpiece too, offering near-seamless shifts like an F1 car.
Dynamically, the FF does feel like a big car, but its chassis develops incredible grip, particularly from the front wheels, which frankly refuse to understeer.
The Manettino switch adjusts the comfort of the suspension. However, body roll remains similar whether you’re in Comfort or Sport modes – instead, the weight and precision of the steering and response from the engine and gearbox are made that bit sharper in the latter mode.
The steering is a little short of feel and isn’t quite as alive as that of a 458 Italia. Keen drivers might also find it takes some time to get used to the way the car exits corners. The way in which the front wheels pull you out of a bend takes some getting used to.
but there’s no denying that Ferrari’s new 6.3-litre V12 is impressive. The car isn’t particularly long-geared, but the engine takes its time for the revs to build, allowing you to make the most of the mid-range torque it offers and allowing effortless cruising.
The FF features Brembo’s latest third generation carbon ceramic brakes, which make short work of bringing the car to a stop.
But the thrust generated by the engine, and the incredible mid-corner balance all owe something to this car’s unique design. It’s a four-wheel-drive car that does without propshafts, plus it’s a four-seater shooting brake that’s described as a GT, but drives like a supercar.
Yes, it is very good, and yes it does break the mold. Quite simply, Ferrari’s future has never looked so exciting.
* Price: £227,027 OTR
* Engine: 6.3-litre V12
* Transmission: Seven-speed twin clutch, four-wheel drive
* Power: 651bhp
* Torque: 683Nm
* 0-62mph: 3.7 seconds
* Top speed: 208mph
* Economy: 18.3mpg
* CO2: 360g/km
* Equipment: SCM3 adaptive dampers, carbon-ceramic brakes, leather upholstery, sat-nav, metallic paint
* On sale: Now
For an alternative review of the latest Ferrari FF Hatchback visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk
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Never looked so ugly. I know people have tried to be contrary and said things like "oh it's starting to grow on me", but really - I've stared at it for some time, and I still think it's hideous. It looks like a squashed BMW Z3 that's been liberally beaten about with the ugly stick. Even the grille reminds me of a burns victim's mouth. What's next? A Ferrari camper?
Never looked so ugly. I know people have tried to be contrary and said things like "oh it's starting to grow on me", but really - I've stared at it for some time, and I still think it's hideous. It looks like a squashed BMW Z3 that's been liberally beaten about with the ugly stick. Even the grille reminds me of a burns victim's mouth. What's next? A Ferrari camper?
it seems like the rear seats are pretty useless for a full sized adult but more for kids. I'm absolutely sure if they made it a proper 4 door saloon it would have been a much better looking car and more practical. saloon may have been longer and heavier but i'm sure ferrari could have sorted out the handling.
It looks like a Chinese Ferrari.
It's the only Ferrari that I'd consider. OK, so the bonnet's a bit long, but the boot space would make it great for dogs. Reminds me of a much more expensive M3 Coupe - a car I regret never getting. Wouldn't be seen dead in a saloon - think outside the (3)box(es). 4WD - fantastic. Something to aspire to when you leave your RS6 Avant for parking in tight spaces.
This car is ugly! It even makes the Porsche Panamera look good. Whoever was responsible for its design should be fired. I hope Enzo isn't watching, poor man.
Ha ha haar - there's something of a Citroen about the front end - eh! ...and a whole load of BMW Z4 about the back. To me it doesn't add up to a bag of chips never mind quarter of a million biggies. If you need to spend that money impressing children (or the dogs) in the back you should check out your trouser size. Maybe the Gadget Show might be interested for a week or so, but this aint no real Ferrari.
The Ferrari F(our) F(ools)
I guess a change is always good. I guess it won't be long before we see a Ferrari SUV. I suppose for 'survival' a company needs to branch out. Porsche has done it. However...I would love to see an 'affordable' Ferrari for say $150,000. That would be enticing.
Updated Scimitar?
"guess a change is always good. I guess it won't be long before we see a Ferrari SUV."
That question was asked by a colleague of mine... I won't name the man who answered, but the response "over my dead body" tells you about all you need to know.
Dan Strong
Great technology, fronts ok back does look a little dated. Not quite a Scimitar even upgraded (as I owned one of those in the 80's) more like a Pacer (anyone remember those?!
As to lack of rear space that depends on the height of the driver, I'm a mere 5'6" and my 7 & 8yr olds fit in the back of my XK without a problem...even with their child seats and when the seats go next year it will be positively palatial back there for them!!
Anyone over 5'10" will make the rear seats unusable in mine though. So should I win the big Euromillions this Friday I'll be ordering one. If not will have to stick to my original plan of a Continental GT in 2014 (FWD a must for all weather driving)
Mark
This FERRARI is not just BEAUTIFUL, is INCANDESCENT !
One of the best so far. What we've got here, in this blog, a bunch of ignorant Mau Mau who are trying to deal with a Versaci suit. Why don't you all go & get a cup of that fouly tea of yours & leave the subject of cars to normal people from a civilized world!
IGNORANTI
AMC Gremlin FF and v12
I've seen other pictures of the FF at the Geneva Motor Show and Ferrari's Official Website (confiquration) and in some other colours, it looks stunning! I love the bold, exquisite designer details throughout like the front headlights, the front grille etc....This car is oozing with charisma and passion!
£200K+ means that Ferrari will not go out of business, and if you don't have the pocket for it, go buy yourself a Corollla because this is what the Company thinks the need to sell at to make a quality car and return a decent profit to their investors. It also seperates you from the rest of the crowd. Most persons buying these type cars would have to pay their Goverment this money in taxes anyway, so why not buy it as and amortised expense and enjoy a bit of life in the process. I like the car and while we may find the grille hideous, it is what it is. Good job Ferrari.
If you look at the Nissan Skyline GTR R33 produced between 1995-1998 it has everything this car has, and for only $60,000. The GTR has the Attessa 4WD system, it seats 4 x 6 ft adults with great comfort to the rear passengers, and has an engine that will deliver 600 HP at 20 PSI of boost on the road daily, and 1200 HP tuned on hi-octane gas. Aren't you glad that at least someone caters for the poor too?
£200K+ means that Ferrari will not go out of business, and if you don't have the pocket for it, go buy yourself a Corollla because this is what the Company thinks they need to sell at to make a quality car and return a decent profit to their investors. It also seperates you from the rest of the crowd. Most persons buying these type cars would have to pay their Goverment this money in taxes anyway, so why not buy it as and amortised expense and enjoy a bit of life in the process. I like the car and while we may find the grille hideous, it is what it is. Good job Ferrari, it's about time you got a 4WD system to lay down all that power safely.
If you look at the Nissan Skyline GTR R33 produced between 1995-1998 it has everything this car has, and for only $60,000. The GTR has the Attessa 4WD system, it seats 4 x 6 ft adults with great comfort to the rear passengers, and has an engine that will deliver 600 HP at 20 PSI of boost on the road daily, and 1200 HP tuned on hi-octane gas. Aren't you glad that at least someone caters for the poor too?
Looking at this dogs dinner of a car and the video, it really hit me. This thing is £230,000!!. I suppose some people will pay this obscene amount of money to have one of 50. I bet they build more than that though and keep it secret while laughing all the way to the bank. Marketing really sucks in people with far too much money , worry about their image far too much and have far too liitle grey matter. I was watching it go up the mountain pass and thought why? Why would anyone in any state of right mind buy this when for £25,000 /£30,000 you could buy a Subaru Impreza that may well be quicker up that pass , be more practical and no doubt alot more reliable. It is just plain silly that companies are still producing cars like this when their undoubted talents could be put to good use helping other companies make their products better. Subaru have been producing 4 wheel drive systems that really work very well indeed, are relatively cheap to produce , are dead reliable and can do everything this Ferrari system does and more. Jensen were doing it in the 60's with Harry Fergusons 4 Wheel drive system that he and his team developed on a racing car that resides on the Isle of Wight. What's so new or great about this Ferrari system? Nothing apart from some fancy marketing and gullible people with to much money and not well informed enough to make a good decision. Drive the Ferrari then if your image allows it drive the Impreza . Is it worth the £200,000 + price difference? OK , it may be handbuilt and will have a lovely sound and heritage but £200,000 !!! I don't think so. I'm sure this will upset a lot of die hard fans. But let the head rule the heart for once.
Have to love Ferrari for their courage in doing a car like this. Still not sure if I actually like it but keep going back to the pictures. Unlike the Rapide which is just a stretched DB9-beautiful but nothing new...
WOW !!! The bread van is back. All hail the bread van. Only how much???