Ferrari 488 GTB Finally Arrives in Japan | Ferrari

Ferrari 488 GTB | Ferrari 488 GTB

Ferrari 488 GTB Finally Arrives in Japan

As the successor to the previous "458 Italia," the new V8 Ferrari "488 GTB," unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this March, makes its long-awaited debut in Japan.

Text by AKIZUKI Shinichiro (OPENERS)

Turbocharged V8 Engine and Enhanced Aerodynamics

The latest V8 model from Ferrari, the "488 GTB", which made its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show this March, has finally arrived in Japan. Developed as the successor to the "458 Italia," this new machine traces its lineage back to the "308 GTB," Ferrari's first mid-engine V8 model. Its most significant highlight is undoubtedly its power unit.

Following the lead of the recently released new "California T", this latest V8 Berlinetta also switches from a naturally aspirated engine to a turbocharged one. While the displacement has been significantly reduced from the 4,499cc of the previous 458 Italia to 3,902cc, it is still a Ferrari, of course. It boasts specifications of 492kW (670ps) at 8,000rpm and a maximum torque of 760Nm at 3,000rpm, representing an increase of 67kW (100ps) and 220Nm respectively over its predecessor.

Paired with this is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (F1-DCT) featuring a variable torque control system, which delivers immense engine torque smoothly and powerfully across all rev ranges.

The 0-100km/h acceleration is 3.0 seconds, a full 0.4 seconds faster than its predecessor. This matches the time set by the "458 Speciale," a more aggressive variant announced in the summer of 2013, and its 0-200km/h time is an even more impressive 8.3 seconds, 0.8 seconds quicker. Its lap time at Ferrari's Fiorano test track is also a swift 1 minute 23.0 seconds, 0.5 seconds faster than the 458 Speciale.

Naturally, the new model features not only powertrain upgrades but also further enhancements in aerodynamics. It achieves an exceptionally low drag coefficient of 1.67, the lowest among all production models in Ferrari's history, while simultaneously increasing downforce by 50 percent compared to its predecessor.

Ferrari 488 GTB | Ferrari 488 GTB

Ferrari 488 GTB Finally Arrives in Japan

Homage to the 308 GTB

To achieve these seemingly contradictory goals simultaneously, Ferrari has incorporated a variety of aerodynamic technologies. The double front spoiler is split into two by a splitter, directing air to the radiators on either side. Meanwhile, in the center area, two pylons integrated with a deflector promote airflow to the flat underbody.

Furthermore, the air flowing under the body passes through vortex generators, creating small vortices that press the car down, ensuring stability at high speeds.

The 488 GTB also adopts the blown spoiler, familiar from F1. Air taken in through the rear window's side air intake is expelled through ducts opened in the rear bumper, generating downforce. This is an aerodynamic technique that produces downforce without increasing drag and functions in conjunction with a diffuser equipped with active flaps. To ensure sufficient height in the diffuser area, the layout of the exhaust tailpipes has also been revised.

The chassis is equipped with the latest dynamic vehicle control system, "Side Slip Angle Control System (SSC2)," which also manages the active dampers. In combination with F1-Trac and E-Diff, it extracts maximum performance even in challenging driving situations, enabling smooth and ideal cornering.

The design features a distinctive side air intake, consciously referencing the original "308 GTB." The body dimensions are 4,568mm in length, 1,952mm in width, and 1,213mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,650mm. Compared to the previous 458 Italia, it is 3mm longer, 1mm narrower, and 10mm taller, with a curb weight of 1,475kg. A new color, Rosso Corsa Met, is also available.

The interior adopts a layout that splits the dashboard and center tunnel into two, similar to the 458 Speciale, continuing the concept of a driver-centric cockpit.

The graphics and interface displayed on the infotainment screen have been newly designed, and the car key, now featuring a motif of engine cylinders, enables keyless start.

The price exceeds the 30 million yen mark, set at 30.7 million yen, with deliveries expected to begin by the end of the year at the earliest.