Ferrari Purosangue: We put the thoroughbred to test

Introducing the Ferrari Purosangue, the newest, meanest, and first naturally aspirated V12 four-door, four-seater Ferrari ever made. And before we proceed, it’s important to note that Ferrari does not refer to it as an SUV.

Looks of it

At first glance, the Purosangue may appear modest, blending seamlessly into the urban landscape. Yet, beneath its understated exterior lies a masterpiece of design. The sculpted lines and aerodynamic features, such as the vents flanking the front DRLs that channel airflow around the vehicle, betray the car’s high performance.

Unlike its ostentatious predecessors, the Purosangue adopts the design language introduced by the Roma, characterised by curvaceous forms that depart from the marque’s traditionally sharp and edgy aesthetic. This ethos extends to the 296 GTB, and together, these models signal a stylistic shift for Ferrari.

Inside story

The Purosangue’s rear doors are a conversation starter in themselves. These unconventional suicide doors hint at a more radical design direction for Ferrari. However, despite their presence, the Purosangue is a true four-seater, not a two plus two layout.

The spacious rear cabin comfortably accommodates four adults, even those over six feet in height, thanks to ample legroom. Wide rear windows, a panoramic sunroof, and an unobstructed forward view ensure a relaxing and airy experience for rear passengers.

Moving to the front seats, the heart of any Ferrari for its driver, the dashboard strikes a balance between familiarity and innovation. The dual-cockpit layout is a first for Ferrari, offering both driver and passenger an immersive experience like never before, with a dedicated instrument binnacle complete with its own screen.

This passenger screen allows for control of comfort features such as seat massage and ventilation, as well as standard media and climate adjustments. The driver’s side features a unique pop-out dial for climate control and seat settings, a design element not found on the passenger side. However, the classic instrument cluster remains behind the steering wheel, similar to recent Ferraris.

This cluster is fully digital, featuring a central rev counter in Ferrari’s signature bright yellow, flanked by customisable panels that can be replaced entirely with an Apple CarPlay display for navigation or music visualisation.

The steering wheel itself adheres to the traditional Ferrari design, with its tactile Manettino drive mode selector and central touch-sensitive start-stop button.
The cabin is further elevated by the signature Ferrari touch: fine leather upholstery that spells luxury.

On the road with the Purosangue

Behind the wheel, the Purosangue truly shines. The steering is light yet precise, offering immediate and responsive turn-in.

Despite its increased weight, the Purosangue handles with surprising agility, feeling remarkably close to its sportier sibling, the 296 GTB. Balance is impeccable, the brakes are phenomenal, and for skilled drivers, a hint of playfulness awaits in the form of a tail-happy character.

Powering this remarkable machine is Ferrari’s iconic naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12, producing a staggering 715 horsepower.

In a segment dominated by twin-turbocharged V8s, the Purosangue stands alone, offering the exhilarating song of a high-revving V12.

This symphony is delivered seamlessly through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, further enhanced by rear-wheel steering for exceptional stability at high speeds and manoeuvrability at low speeds.

The result is a “family car” with an astonishing 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 3.3 seconds.

The verdict

In summary, the Ferrari Purosangue is a triumph of engineering and design. It seamlessly blends the practicality of a family car with the exhilaration of a supercar, setting a new standard in automotive excellence. While acquiring one may be a challenge, the experience it offers is unparalleled.

If you’re fortunate enough to secure a spot in its exclusive lineup (it’s sold out for the next two years), the Purosangue promises a ride into the heart of Ferrari’s legendary legacy.