Maranello FF madness

Ferrari has just released pictures of its upcoming all-wheel drive FF model in action prior to the official unveiling at Geneva's International Motor Show in early March this year.

Powered by Ferrari's 492kW/683Nm 6.3-litre V12, the four-passenger Ferrari "shooting brake" FF succeeds the 612 Scagliettii and is the company’s first ever all-wheel drive.

It uses the company's own 4RM system that delivers full-time all-wheel drive manipulated electronically to provide maximum traction in all conditions.

The 4RM system is claimed to be extra light – Ferrari says it weighs 50 per cent less than normal 4WD systems – and plays a part in the FF's close to ideal 47/53 front to rear weight distribution.

Although it's not possible to quote figures, Ferrari suggests the FF is able to transfer a good deal of its power to the road on less than perfect surfaces. On dry bitumen, the FF quotes zero to 100km/h times of 3.7 seconds.

Its practicality as an all-seasons supercar is also underlined by its ability to seat four people "comfortably" and a luggage capacity that expands from an impressive 450 litres to 800 litres. Not surprisingly, Ferrari claims a best-in-category rating for the hatchback-style FF.

Ferrari says the Pininfarina-designed FF will come with a "vast array of personalisation options and accessories," including "six model-specific exterior colours and sumptuous interior trim incorporating specially selected and treated aniline leather."

Ferrari's local importers, European Automotive Imports Pty Ltd, say the FF is planned for introduction to Australian and New Zealand markets in early 2012. Local pricing and specification details will be announced closer to the introductory date.

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