Ferrari Portofino M revealed

The Ferrari Portofino – the brand’s most affordable model – has been upgraded with the introduction of a more powerful, re-engineered M variant.

• The 3.9-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine now makes 620hp.
• It also gets a new 8-speed, twin-clutch automatic gearbox.
• Ferrari has not yet announced plans for an India launch.

What is the Ferrari Portofino M?

The Portofino M or Modificata (used historically by the brand to designate an evolution in performance) includes a host of technical enhancements over the standard model. It’s also the first Ferrari to be unveiled purely online and the first to launch since the Maranello factory closed during Italy’s pandemic-induced lockdown.

How does the Ferrari Portofino M differ from the standard model?

Externally, the Ferrari Portofino M has been lightly redesigned over the standard Portofino. Changes are focused on the front end, with a new bumper design for a “sportier and more aggressive” look.

The Portofino M also brings in the full five-position manettino driving mode switch from pricier Ferraris, replacing the three-mode item of the standard model. That means it gets a Race mode that, in combination with Ferrari’s Dynamic Enhancer (which subtly uses the brakes to keep slides under control), is said to boost driver involvement.

Furthermore, new optional features have been made available in the form of more advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and comfort features, such as ventilated and heated seats.

Has Ferrari upgraded the Ferrari Portofino M’s engine?

As a matter of fact, the power output from the Portofino’s 3.9-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine has been boosted from 600hp to 620hp. This has also been accompanied with the fitment of a particulate filter to meet the upcoming Euro 6d emissions regulations and associated engineering (including a redesigned exhaust) to ensure that this doesn't impact engine sound.

Just as significant, however, is a new 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox replacing the old 7-speed unit.

The extra power and 8-speed gearbox mean a very slight improvement in the car's 0-100kph time, from 3.5sec to 3.45sec. There's a more substantial 1.0sec improvement on the 0-200kph time, down to 9.8sec.

Will the Ferrari Portofino M come to India?

Ferrari has made no official announcement about bringing the new Portofino M to our market, yet. However, the standard Ferrari Portofino has been available in India since its launch back in September 2018. You can read our Ferrari Portofino review to see what it’s like to drive.

Apart from this, as we had also exclusively reported that the price for the Ferrari Roma in India has been revealed and that bookings for the sportscar have begun. Ferrari has also begun deliveries of the F8 Tributo in India.

Also see:

Ferrari Portofino M image gallery

2018 Ferrari Portofino first look video

from Autocar India - Cars https://ift.tt/3iFjvLv