APART from being saddled with a name that sounds like it might be part of an exotic algebra equation, Ferrari's GTC4Lusso T has a lot going for it, writes William Scholes.
The 'T' bit is important here, for it signifies turbocharging; the GT-thingummy has a 3.9-litre V8 twin-turbo engine under its long bonnet, offering buyers of Ferrari's family car an alternative to the V12-engined version it has offered thus far.
Ferrari pitches the GT-whatsit as a four-seater for owners who seek "a car that is sporty and versatile, as well as perfect for driving on a daily basis".
Unlike the all-wheel-drive V12 version, the V8 is rear-drive, though it retains the same four-wheel-steering system.
Ferrari is keen to emphasise just how usable the new powertrain is for for "day-to-day driving in urban contexts: a rich powerful soundtrack in acceleration that becomes more muted at lower speeds, rapid pick-up from low revs courtesy of versatile, modular torque delivery and, last but not least, excellent range".
Epic performance is, of course, guaranteed. The turbo's 601bhp is trumped by the V12's 680bhp but it edges ahead in the torque stakes, with 561lb/ft besting the V12's 514lb/ft.
It means that the V8's performance should be very close to the V12's, though being rear-wheel-drive it's unlikely to have the traction to beat the all-wheel-drive car's 0-62mph time of 3.4 seconds. The V12's 208mph top speed should be within striking distance.
Of more relevance is likely to be the increased range that the V8's improved fuel economy will offer, though at 18.8mpg it's still hardly abstemious.
Ferrari has yet to announce prices, but the turbo should be usefully cheaper than the £230k V12...
