When thinking about a vehicle from the Cavallino Rampante, the first image that comes to mind is a low-slung sports car with an aggressive silhouette, raw power, and, of course, Ferrari’s iconic red color. However, the legendary brand founded by Enzo Ferrari in 1939 has ventured into the SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) market, but in a way that only Ferrari could.
Héctor Laca, an Argentine businessman and founder of the agricultural supply company Facyt, became the first owner of a Ferrari Purosangue in Argentina. This four-seater is not a typical choice among Ferrari enthusiasts, yet it retains the fundamental characteristics of the brand. Under the hood, it boasts a naturally aspirated V12 engine that delivers 725 horsepower. Impressively, 80% of its torque is available from just 2,100 rpm, while the peak torque of 716 Nm is reached at 6,250 rpm. According to Ferrari’s official website, some of the engine’s features were inspired by Formula 1 technology.
Performance and Engineering Excellence
The Purosangue is equipped with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, designed for seamless shifts and optimal performance. Its all-wheel drive ensures stability and control, while the chassis is built with a carbon fiber roof for a lightweight yet robust structure. One of its most distinctive features is the rear-hinged back doors, allowing passengers to enter and exit with ease without compromising the car’s streamlined silhouette.
Inside, the Purosangue is a true luxury machine. It features four generously sized, heated seats with electric controls, offering supreme comfort. The trunk is the largest ever designed by Ferrari, making it the most practical vehicle in the brand’s history. Additionally, the driver’s seating position is higher than in traditional Ferrari models, providing a commanding view of the road.
A Revolutionary Weight Distribution
Unlike most SUVs or crossovers that have a front-mounted engine and an adjacent transmission, the Purosangue follows a transaxle design, a layout typical of high-performance sports cars. The engine is positioned in the front-mid section, while the gearbox is located at the rear, resulting in a near-perfect 49:51 weight distribution. This configuration enhances handling and performance, ensuring the vehicle remains agile despite its SUV classification.
Aerodynamics and Design Innovations
To maintain the aerodynamic efficiency expected from a Ferrari, the Purosangue features a unique front-hood spoiler known as the Aerobridge. Unlike conventional spoilers that push air down to increase downforce, the Aerobridge is designed to minimize drag and improve efficiency.
Another striking feature is the absence of a rear windshield wiper. Instead, Ferrari has engineered the vehicle’s airflow to naturally keep the rear windshield clean. This design choice, combined with a suspended spoiler and carefully sculpted surfaces, ensures optimal aerodynamics at high speeds.
Unmatched Speed and Braking Capabilities
The Ferrari Purosangue’s performance figures are nothing short of extraordinary. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds and reaches 200 km/h in 10.6 seconds. With a top speed of 310 km/h, it ranks among the fastest SUVs in the world. Its braking capabilities are equally impressive, taking only 32.8 meters to stop from 100 km/h and 129 meters to come to a full halt from 200 km/h.
Interior and Infotainment System
Inside the cabin, the Purosangue embraces a minimalist yet high-tech design. The steering wheel incorporates multiple touch-sensitive controls that disappear when the dashboard screen is turned off. Essential safety functions, however, remain as physical buttons to ensure easy access.
Unlike most vehicles, the infotainment screen is not positioned in the center console but is instead placed in front of the passenger seat. This unique placement allows the co-driver to engage in the driving experience, a feature that sets the Purosangue apart from other SUVs.
Exclusive Pricing and Customization
Owning a Ferrari Purosangue comes at a hefty price. The base model starts at $398,000, and that’s without any additional customization options. This price also excludes shipping fees and potential taxes depending on the country of delivery. Given Ferrari’s extensive customization program, buyers can further personalize their Purosangue, adding exclusive materials, advanced technology, and bespoke design elements.
The Ferrari Purosangue is not just an SUV; it is a revolution in luxury performance vehicles. By combining Ferrari’s motorsport DNA with the practicality of an SUV, the Purosangue sets a new benchmark in the automotive industry. Whether it’s the powerful V12 engine, groundbreaking aerodynamics, or cutting-edge interior design, this vehicle proves that Ferrari’s first SUV is nothing less than extraordinary.