FIRST LOOK: 2013 FERRARI FF

A few weeks back when we took a detailed look at electric maven Fisker’s new Karma Surf concept, we marveled at its similarity (at least in shape) to Ferrari’s loveable but awkward FF grand tourer. While it’s hard for us to describe anything by the Prancing Pony with the often boring moniker “sedan,” the fact that the company has been able to put out a sexy and sleek AWD four-seater without compromising on its racing roots is both astounding and promising for the brand.

As Ferrari follows the recent super car maker trend of expanding beyond typical fare such as their signature new V12 flagship, the F12berlinetta, we’re hoping that the company doesn’t go so far as to produce their rumored SUV concept…unlike certain other Italian stallions. However, with the now two-year-old FF, the company is on the right track in appealing to the luxury market with not only the world’s fastest four-seater but also the company’s first ever four-wheel drive production vehicle.

2013 Ferrari FF with panoramic glass roof option

Successor to the 612 Scaglietti with coincidental design hints from the 1961-2 250 GT Breadvanwith Short Wheel Base (SWB) from the racing division, the 12-cylinder FF produces an awe-inspiring 650-plus horsepower (or, as the Italians say it, 660 Cavalli Vapores or CVs) when achieving a total rpm of 8000, with maximum torque of approximately 504 lb.-ft. at around 6000 rpm. The FF has a top speed of about 208 miles per hour and can hit zero to 62 in 3.7 seconds. However, if you’re really trying to impress your three passengers, we’d suggest attempting Ferrari’s stated zero to 124 mph, which can apparently take just 11 seconds. Not bad for the upscale equivalent of a station wagon.  

Adding to the already striking façade, Ferrari announced at the Paris Motor Show in September that for the 2013 model year, FF purchasers will now have the option of either the slick traditional hardtop or a revolutionary full-length reflective glass panoramic roof (above) that will give drivers and their guests the thrill of an open-air driving environment. Classy, aerodynamic and a definite head-turner, it still provides the same amount of acoustic brilliance and thermal insulation. We just hope this option results in a real-time adrenaline rush as you work through that track-derived seven-speed F1 dual-clutch gearbox; it’s a shame the semi-auto paddles couldn’t be exchanged for a stick for those who really want to kick it up a notch. Either way, this is one badass-looking grand tourer.