The Ferrari GTC4Lusso debuts: a unique mix of benchmark sports car performance

The Ferrari GTC4Lusso which premieres at the Geneva Motor Show is a new four-seater model that integrates rear-wheel steering with four-wheel drive for the first time, hailing another major advance for the versatile sporty Grand Tourer concept.   

As Ferrari’s latest interpretation of the four-seater, a configuration that holds a very special place in Maranello tradition, the GTC4Lusso makes exhilarating Prancing Horse sports car performance and elegance available to four rather than just two occupants.  

Thanks to a 6,262cc V12 that punches out a maximum of 690 cv at a 8,000 rpm and peak torque of 697 Nm at 5,750 rpm, with 80% available at just 1,750 rpm, the GTC4Lusso delivers an astonishing top speed of 335 km/h and sprints from 0 to 100 km in 3.4 seconds. Both its 13.5:1 compression ratio and its 2.6 kg/cv weight-to-power-ratio set new records for the category.

Seamless integration of its complex vehicle dynamics control systems means the powerful GTC4Lusso performs brilliantly in all driving situations, but really comes into its own on challenging low-grip surfaces, delivering a consistent sense of stability and comfort.

Based on the latest, fourth generation of the Side Slip Control, the new Ferrari-patented 4RM-S system integrates and controls the 4RM Evo four-wheel drive’s PTU (Power Transfer Unit), the rear-wheel steering, E-Diff and SCM-E active damping.

Penned by Ferrari Design, the GTC4Lusso is a further refinement of the shooting brake coupé, reinterpreting the concept with an extremely streamlined, tapered shape that underscores its perfect balance of elegance and sportiness whilst still incorporating large comfortable rear seats and a roomy boot behind them. At the front, the new Dual Cockpit architecture enhances the shared driving experience for both driver and passenger. In fact, four plush wraparound seats and the cabin’s meticulously crafted quality materials create the same ambience as a luxurious living space for all occupants. One of the selection criteria for the materials adopted was weight reduction to heighten the sense of sporty luxury typical of a thoroughbred Ferrari.  The navigation and infotainment platform, featuring a 10.25” HD screen with capacitive touch technology, is new, too. 

The Ferrari stand at Geneva showcases two examples of the GTC4Lusso: the first is finished in a Bianco Italia livery with a Blu Sterling interior, a Low-e panoramic roof to keep the cabin temperature constant even on the sunniest of days, and diamond-finish forged wheels, while the second has classic Grigio Ferro Met bodywork with a Cognac semi-aniline leather cabin. Both cars feature the new 8.8” touchscreen passenger display as well as Apple CarPlay and an upgraded audio system.   

Ferrari is also using the Geneva event to present the new Handling Speciale (HS) package for the California T. This V8 model with retractable hard top and 2+ seating configuration delivers such a perfect combination of performance and versatility that it has become the benchmark for its segment. The optional technical content on the Handling Speciale is designed for owners that appreciate the California T’s versatility and GT prowess but will also relish the extra sporty edge delivered by a series of a new set-up and specific calibrations. 

Aside from stiffer springs to increase body control with lower roll, dive and pitch, the gear-shift logic for the Manettino’s Sport setting has been modified which translates into faster, sportier gear selection. A new strategy for the SCM3 magnetorheological dampers improves dynamic behaviour by boosting both the system’s response speed and control. Revised F1-Trac logics helps ensure even better acceleration, too. 

The HS package also includes a new exhaust which delivers a fuller, richer sound very much in tune with the car’s character. It introduces several aesthetic features such as the new front grille in matte Grigio Ferro Met and the rear diffuser in the same colour with matte black fences and matte black tailpipes. The car showcasing the package has a two-tone livery comprising Rosso Corsa Met bodywork and Nero Stellato roof.  Its black interior features a slew of carbon-fibre details. 

Also present is a California T Tailor Made inspired by the 250 GT Berlinetta SWB. This is a particularly sporty but refined 8-cylinder featuring a Grigio Scuro livery and a dark red racing stripe with a Heritage Bordeaux leather interior. It also boasts detailing such as a black grille and black diffuser with red fences and chrome tailpipes. 

The 488 GTB on show has Argento Nürburgring bodywork and a Nero Stellato roof while the  F12berlinetta is clothed in a Rosso Berlinetta livery with a Cuoio leather interior and carbon-fibre interior and exterior accents.  

The GT cars are flanked by the Formula 1 single-seater, the SF15-T, in homage to Ferrari’s inextricable links to the track on the eve of the start of the new F1 season.