Ferrari Purosangue V12
The Ferrari Purosangue, whose name translates to Thoroughbred in Italian, represents perhaps the most radical departure in Ferrari's 75-year history. Unveiled in September 2022, it is the first Ferrari with four doors, four seats, and the raised ride height characteristic of an SUV, though Ferrari steadfastly refuses to use that term, preferring FUV (Ferrari Utility Vehicle) instead.
The Purosangue's most remarkable aspect is what sits beneath its sculpted hood: a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine producing 715 horsepower at 7750 rpm and 528 lb-ft of torque. In an era when virtually every competitor in the luxury performance SUV segment has turned to turbocharged engines, Ferrari chose to install a screaming, high-revving V12 that redlines at 8250 rpm and produces a soundtrack that no forced-induction engine can replicate. This engine is derived from the unit in the 812 Competizione, making the Purosangue one of the most powerful SUVs ever produced.
The body design, created by Flavio Manzoni's Ferrari Centro Stile, manages the seemingly impossible task of making a Ferrari SUV look proportionally correct. The cab-forward design, muscular haunches, and aggressive front end are unmistakably Ferrari, while the rear-hinged suicide doors provide elegant access to the spacious rear compartment. The interior features four individual seats, each electrically adjustable, with a rear compartment that rivals luxury sedans for space and comfort.
Technically, the Purosangue breaks new ground for Ferrari. It features the brand's first active suspension system, using 48-volt electric anti-roll bars that can decouple completely for maximum wheel articulation or stiffen instantly for spirited driving. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power primarily to the rear wheels for a rear-biased driving character. An eight-speed dual-clutch transmission provides lightning-fast gear changes.
The chassis incorporates a carbon fiber roof and other lightweight construction techniques to minimize the weight penalty inherent in a vehicle of this size. At 2,033 kilograms, it is heavy by Ferrari standards but competitive within its class. Carbon-ceramic brakes are standard, as are magnetorheological adaptive dampers.
Ferrari has stated that the Purosangue will never represent more than 20 percent of total production, ensuring exclusivity. The waiting list stretches for years, and early market premiums have been substantial. Whether purists approve or not, the Purosangue is a commercial and engineering triumph that demonstrates Ferrari's ability to enter new segments without abandoning its core values of performance, exclusivity, and emotional appeal.
As a current production model, purchase through authorized Ferrari dealers. Allocation is limited and most markets have multi-year waiting lists. Verify specification carefully as option prices are substantial. The active suspension system is a complex new technology. Carbon-ceramic brakes are standard. Ensure complete documentation for resale value.
Ferrari has committed to limiting Purosangue production to no more than 20% of total annual output. All examples feature the naturally aspirated V12; no V6 or V8 versions are planned. The active suspension system with 48V electric anti-roll bars is a Ferrari first. Rear suicide doors are unique in the Ferrari lineup. Production began in late 2022 with first deliveries in 2023.