Ferrari has upgraded the convertible Portofino, currently the entry-level model in the Prancing Horse's lineup.
M for Modificata
While much focus of late has been on the new Roma coupe, the Portofino is still and important model for Ferrari, being both a four-seater (just) and its entry-level car (such terms being relative of course). Launched for the first time in the brand's 70+ year history in an online event (Covid safety and all that) the Portofino gets a new V8 engine and an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
In fact, technically it also gets a new name for this is now the Portofino M - for 'Modificata', "which in Ferrari nomenclature refers to cars that have undergone an evolution that has significantly boosted their performance."
620hp V8 engine
To achieve that performance boost, the Portofino M gets an updated 3.9-litre V8 twin-turbo engine, which has an extra 20hp over the old Portofino, bringing its total to 620hp, backed up by 760Nm of torque. It also gets a faster-spinning turbocharger system, a particulate filter for the exhaust, and 'Variable Boost Management' software that claims to virtually eliminate turbo lag. This may be an entry-level model, but Ferrari reckons it's still quick enough to rip off a 3.45-second 0-100km/h run, and a top speed of 320km/h.
Key to that is also the addition of a new eight-speed dual-clutch semi-automatic gearbox, for which the engine can hold back a little torque in the lower gears, both for reasons of reliability as well as providing more linear, less peaky, acceleration. It also helps in terms of economy and emissions.
There's also a new, smaller, lighter clutch pack which is more efficient at transmitting torque, and - in something of a clue towards the Portofino's target market - Ferrari says that it's "now also easier to drive in urban contexts during Start&Stop cycles. This guarantees that the car is smoother to drive at low speeds in traffic, as well as delivering a more intuitive experience and improved responsiveness."
Updated cabin and touchscreen
Still, more serious performance concerns have also been taken care of. The Portofino M gets Ferrari's Side Slip Control (SSC) - which is basically drift-mode by another name - along with an updated 'Manettino' driving mode selector and a system called the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer which is a box of electronics that can help you feel just a little like a driving god. The Manettino gets five modes - Wet, Comfort, Sport, Race, and ESC-Off for when you're feeling properly brave.
The Portofino's styling has also been updated. There is a new front bumper, new front wing vents (which help to reduce overall drag), new aluminium slats for the radiator grille, a new rear diffuser, and diamond-finish alloy wheels.
The cabin is new too, divided into distinct upper and lower surfaces for a lighter look. There's a new 10.25-inch touchscreen in the centre, and a new flat-bottom steering wheel for the driver behind which is an analogue rev-counter flanked by two TFT digital displays. There's also an optional seven-inch screen for the passenger which allows them to select music to listen to, view sat nav information or select a new point of interest (POI), such as a restaurant, which is then automatically integrated into the route. "So essentially, the passenger becomes a co-driver" says Ferrari.
There's a long list of standard safety equipment too, including adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, a blind spot monitor, automatic high beam lights, and a rear cross traffic alert.