To whet our appetite, Maranello has just released a fresh batch of images as well as new details about the interior of its latest masterpiece, the 458 Italia. Not surprisingly, Ferrari supports that the interior design of its F430 replacement derives directly from the firm's F1 experience and that the steering wheel and instrument binnacle represent "a significant step forward in the concept of the ergonomic interface between driver and car".
On the 458 Italia, the main commands are grouped on the steering wheel while the secondary ones are set in two satellite pods on either side of the dash. Ferrari's engineers eliminated all steering-column mounted stalks, with the indicators, full beam, flash and windscreen wiper functions now being activated by buttons on the steering wheel boss. Moreover, the button to select the shock absorber setting is now positioned next to the "Engine start".
Put your hands behind the steering wheel and you'll discover a number of secondary functions, such as the stereo system controls. Ferrari also says that the gearbox paddles are now longer to help make shifts easier from any steering angle.
As for the two satellite pods on the dash, the one on the right houses controls for the infotainment system, the Bluetooth connection, sat-nav, digital speedo and rear parking camera while the one on the left, for the optional cruise control, buttons for choosing the video setting of the left-hand dash TFT screen and the on-board computer interface.
The 458 Italia is powered by a mid-mounted 4.5-liter V8 engine with direct-injection that pushes out 570HP at a whopping 9,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 540Nm or 398.2 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm.
The V8 powerhouse is coupled to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission driving the rear wheels and launching the 458 Italia to 100km/h (62mph) from rest in less than 3.4 seconds and on to a top speed of over 325km/h (202mph).
The Ferrari 458 Italia will make its first public outing in September at the Frankfurt motor show.
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