Need For Speed
The Ferrari Portofino replaces the outgoing California T as Ferrari’s entry-level grand tourer. Sleek, stylish, and fast—it’s a Ferrari for every man.
Ferrari Portofino is the latest effort by the supercar giant to harmonise performance, usability, comfort, and ultimately, style. Named after a village in the Italian Riviera that is synonymous for its beauty, elegance, tradition, and history, it’s really easy to see why the name bodes well. The Portofino is the replacement vehicle for the California T. A two-door four-seater with a retracting convertible hardtop, it’s powered by a front-mounted 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that puts out 591 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque, on a vehicle that weighs almost 200 pounds less than its predecessor. Coupled with the legendary car maker’s state-of-the-art magnetic suspension, it makes the ride and handling sensational as well.
The great story continues with its interior, where it’s been significantly better after taking into account of feedbacks from the owners. User-friendly infotainment is omnipresent for the driver, though the buttons on the steering wheel might take a little bit of getting used to, but you will acclimatise with it quickly. With an interior lined with exotic premium Italian leather and high-grade materials, it creates a sense of occasion every time you sit in it. The ergonomics will surprise you, too, as it’s quite easy to get comfortable since the controls are all within reach.
Best of all, you could use the car for daily drive, as Ferrari claimed it so. It’s an enjoyable grand tourer if you’re carving up the miles, as well as an effortless drive around town due to its relatively small size and savvy driving assistance. When you’re in the mood to soak up some sun, simply retract the roof to turn it into a snazzy convertible, all the while cruising in a machine whose performance is nothing short of spectacular. While purists may object on the tainted identity and characteristics of the Italian luxury sports car manufacturer, the majority would agree that it’s an all-rounder Ferrari at its very core. The Ferrari Portofino is priced at RM1,900,000 on-the-road without insurance and excluding duty and customisation options.