Ferrari 488 Pista: Leaked images reveal supercar’s name

Ferrari’s new track-focused variant of the 488 GTB has a name, it seems: the 488 Pista.

Bearing the Italian word for ‘Track’ in its title, the newcomer is the replacement to the legendary 458 Speciale, and will be shown in full at next month’s Geneva motor show.

The Pista’s identity was exposed by an American forum Ferrari Chat this week, along with more details of its aggressive styling and aerodynamic changes. Chief among the modifications is a large front splitter, tweaked bonnet design and prominent rear diffuser.

Until now, the only preview came in the form of a cryptic Ferrari teaser video.

What is yet to be revealed is what’s under the bonnet. All the industry scuttlebutt points to a modified version of the 488’s 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, using added boost pressure and internal tweaks.

Power figures are set to eclipse 520kW, with some rumours suggesting a horsepower figure of 721 – one better than the fiery McLaren 720S.

There are already comparisons being made with the Porsche 911 GT2 RS, too, with Ferrari said to be targeting the German’s key downforce and aero traits.

To do so, Ferrari engineers will strip out excess weight and add carbon fibre components where possible, along with extensive underbody and electronic changes.

Ferrari is yet to verify the new naming strategy of its new track weapon, which follows the wheel tracks of the 360 Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia and 458 Speciale.

Stay tuned for more details from the stands of Geneva.