Ferrari Unveils 849 Testarossa: Most Powerful Production Model Replaces SF90 Stradale With 1,036 bhp Hybrid Technology

Ferrari has officially launched the 849 Testarossa, a revolutionary plug-in hybrid berlinetta that succeeds the SF90 Stradale and delivers unprecedented performance with 1,036 bhp combined power output.
The new 849 Testarossa, represents a significant evolution over its predecessor, the SF90 Stradale, whilst retaining Ferrari's commitment to hybrid technology and exceptional performance. The car takes its name from the iconic "Testa Rossa" heritage, first used on the 500 TR in 1956 to describe the distinctive red cam covers of Ferrari's high-performance racing engines. 

Performance and Powertrain

The heart of the 849 Testarossa features a comprehensively re-engineered 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that now produces 830 bhp, marking a substantial 50 bhp increase over the SF90 Stradale's V8 unit. This internal combustion engine, designated F154FC, achieves a specific output of 208 bhp per litre through extensive modifications including larger turbochargers with F80-derived low-friction bearings, revised cylinder heads, new engine block, exhaust manifolds, intake plenums, and titanium fasteners. 

The hybrid system combines the V8 with three electric motors delivering a combined 220 bhp, identical to the SF90 Stradale configuration. Two electric motors power the front wheels for torque vectoring and all-wheel drive functionality, whilst a rear-mounted MGU-K unit, derived from Formula 1 technology, supports the rear axle. The total system output reaches 1,036 bhp with 842 Nm of torque, compared to the SF90 Stradale's 986 bhp and 800 Nm. 

849 Testarossa vs SF90 Stradale

Power and Performance: The 849 Testarossa delivers 50 bhp more than its predecessor, achieving 0-100 km/h in under 2.3 seconds compared to the SF90's 2.5 seconds. The enhanced powertrain enables a Fiorano lap time of 1 minute 17.5 seconds, representing a 1.2-second improvement over the SF90 Stradale. 
Aerodynamics: The new model generates 415 kg of downforce at 250 kmph, a significant 25 kg increase over the SF90 Stradale. Cooling performance has improved by 15 per cent, with airflow to the intercoolers increased by 30 per cent through optimised bodywork flanks. 

Design Revolution: The 849 Testarossa features a completely redesigned exterior inspired by 1970s Sports Prototypes and the legendary 512 S. The rear adopts a distinctive twin-tail architecture with two wing sections that generate 10 per cent of rear downforce, replacing the SF90's conventional design. The front features a full-width graphic similar to the F80 and 12Cilindri models. 

Weight Management: Despite the performance increases and new components that would typically add over 20 kg, Ferrari maintained the same 1,570 kg dry weight as the SF90 Stradale through extensive light weighting measures. These include 35 per cent lighter road springs and machining techniques inspired by racing engines. 

Advanced Technology Integration

The 849 Testarossa introduces Ferrari's most sophisticated electronic control systems, including the new ABS Evo controller and the Ferrari Integrated Vehicle Estimator (FIVE) digital system. The FIVE system creates a real-time digital twin of the vehicle, accurately estimating performance characteristics like speed (within 1 kmph margin) and yaw angle (within 1° margin) that cannot be directly measured. 

The plug-in hybrid architecture utilises a 7.45 kWh lithium-ion battery, slightly smaller than the SF90's 7.9 kWh unit, enabling up to 25 km of electric-only driving. Four driving modes are available through the eManettino: eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify, optimising the powertrain for different conditions. 

India Launch

Ferrari currently offers five models in India, with prices ranging from ₹3.76 crore for the Roma to ₹7.50 crore for the SF90 Stradale. The lineup includes the F8 Tributo (₹4.02 crore), 812 (₹5.75 crore), and 296 GTB (₹5.40 crore), along with the recently launched Purosangue SUV at ₹10.50 crore. Given Ferrari's India strategy and the 849 Testarossa's positioning as the SF90 Stradale replacement, the new model could arrive in India by late 2025 or early 2026. The 849 Testarossa would likely be priced around ₹8-9 crore, considering the enhanced technology and performance over the current SF90 Stradale.