Controversially Designed 562 HP Ferrari 458 Italia Revealed

It’s been years of speculation and months of spy photos, but finally this morning the prancing horse has something to dance about. Designed to replace the handsome mid-engined F430 and packed with a 562 horsepower propulsion unit, the all-new Ferrari 458 Italia is sure to stop people in their tracks.

A new direct-injected 4.5-liter V8 has taken to the glass roofed living quarters aft of the passenger cell. Ignite the ignition and you’re welcomed by the sonorous exhaust note of 562 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, punch the throttle and she’ll scream to her 9,000 rpm redline. Thanks to the new engine’s 12.5:1 compression ratio, eighty percent of the Italia’s twisting power is available at 3,250 rpm according to Ferrari. The noble collection of ponies is served by a seven-speed dual clutch gearbox borrowed from the California, but features unique ratios that have yet to be revealed. However, expect 60 mph to arrive in 3.4 seconds and if you’re brave enough to keep your foot in it, 202 mph will quickly arrive making this the fastest volume car Ferrari has ever built.

Long rumored, the Formula One derived KERS hybrid system has not been mentioned, but that doesn’t mean that it won’t be included at some later date. Regardless, fuel economy is up while the all-aluminum structure helps to keep weight down to a svelte 3,042 lbs. The Ferrari 458 Italia won’t make its public debut until the Frankfurt Motor Show in September when its controversial design can be truly judged.