2017 Ferrari 488 GTB review, road test

For the first time, Ferrari’s mid-engine V8 is put to the ultimate test that is Indian roads. Can it still deliver the magic?

Published on Sep 28, 2017 07:00:00 AM

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F1-style aero pillar manages longitudinal and transverse airflow.

Special channels on the bonnet deflect air and reduce front-axle lift.

Scuderia Ferrari insignia is optional and will cost a cool Rs 5 lakh a pair.

The 488 has a pretty sparse standard equipment list, with almost everything being an expensive option. The car we had was close to base spec, missing bits like the cool passenger side instrumentation and powered seats. In a Ferrari, this perhaps won’t be an issue for some, but it’s the eye-watering price that makes the missing kit hurt the most. Take for example the Scuderia Ferrari emblems on the fenders; depending on currency rates, they can set you back by Rs 5 lakh a pair!

As for the cockpit, not much has changed from the Italia. Both cars share the driver-centric focus, and the vents, controls and similarly styled instrumentation feel all too familiar. The steering wheel is similar to those in the other cars from Maranello, with controls for lights, indicators and wipers on the front of the wheel, while the back is reserved for less important bits like stereo controls. While it may not be a preferred layout to some, it has rid the car of steering-mounted stalks and created space for the column-mounted gear-selector paddles which are one of the easiest to reach and use. The central stack on the floor sees a small redesign with the reverse, auto and launch buttons, which are now stacked vertically as against the horizontal layout of the Italias.

A large tachometer sits at the centre of the instrument cluster flanked by two LCD screens. They display a plethora of info like speed, driving modes, navigation, entertainment, temperature, and even pressure dials, but it isn’t quite intuitive to use.

As mentioned earlier, our car came equipped with manual seats. These are designed for weight-saving and are pretty slim but they are form-hugging and comfortable. There is a little storage space behind the seats, along with a few cubbies and cupholders around the cabin. The boot is pretty generous too. While a set of gold clubs may not be possible, it will take in some weekend bags.

We found that the air conditioning works well even on a hot day which, let’s be honest, is more important than the 0-100 time for most owners.