Beyond the Four: A Deep Dive into Ferrari’s Next-Gen All-Weather Supercar
Stepping through the historic gates of Maranello has always been more than just a walk; it’s a pilgrimage. After a decade immersed in the world of high-performance automotive engineering and privileged test drives, that initial surge of excitement rarely wanes. But today, in the crisp spring air of 2025, it’s amplified. A new dark blue shape awaits, a machine that boldly reinterprets Ferrari’s commitment to the grand tourer, pushing the boundaries first explored by the groundbreaking FF and further refined by the GTC4Lusso. This isn’t just a car; it’s Maranello’s declaration for the next era of versatile, high-performance luxury: the Ferrari GranTourer Lux (let’s call it that for now, a nod to its lineage and elevated ambition).
The moment the wraps came off, the industry buzzed. While the original FF’s shooting-brake silhouette drew mixed opinions back in 2011, this 2025 iteration has matured into a triumph of functional aesthetics. It retains that distinctive long, sleek roofline, yet the angles are sharper, the surfaces more sculpted, integrating advanced aerodynamic elements seamlessly into its form. It’s significantly larger than it appears, belying its ability to comfortably accommodate four six-foot adults and their weekend luggage – a true rarity in the supercar domain. Yet, the visual compactness, a hallmark of excellent design, makes it seem agile, almost eager, even at a standstill. The Ferrari GT Lux design, penned by Ferrari’s now fully established in-house styling center, is a masterclass in aggressive elegance. The integrated aerodynamic channels along the flanks, the active front splitter, and the adaptive rear diffuser all work in concert, not just for downforce but to create a visually coherent, utterly breathtaking presence. The signature quad taillights are now slimmer, employing next-gen OLED lighting technology for an unmistakable nocturnal signature.
Sliding into the driver’s seat, the decade of evolution is immediately apparent. Ferrari’s commitment to driver-centric ergonomics remains paramount, but the execution has been catapulted into the future. The digital instrument cluster, a vibrant, customizable display, flanks a gloriously analogue central tachometer – a beautiful nod to tradition in a sea of innovation. The steering wheel, familiar in its flat-bottomed aggression, integrates haptic feedback controls for lights, wipers, and the updated Manettino 2.0, which now features additional modes like “E-Boost” and “Weather Adaptive Traction.” The central stack is a minimalist marvel, dominated by a large, curved infotainment screen that blends seamlessly into the dashboard. Gone are many physical buttons, replaced by intuitive capacitive touch surfaces that respond with satisfying precision. The bridge-style center console, housing the transmission controls and launch control engagement, feels even more substantial, a technological sculpture in itself. But it’s the sustainable luxury interior materials that truly impress: supple, responsibly sourced leather, Alcantara derived from recycled materials, and bespoke carbon fiber weave options that speak volumes about Ferrari’s 2025 vision of premium cabin appointments. With spacious, supportive bucket seats for all four occupants, and clever modular luggage compartments accessed through the expansive tailgate, the GT Lux genuinely delivers on its promise of uncompromised grand touring.
The heart of this beast, a 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, fires with a guttural bark that resonates deep within your chest. But this isn’t just any V12; it’s a next-generation hybrid V12 powertrain, seamlessly integrating a powerful electric motor to deliver an astonishing 850 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque. At startup, the car defaults to a discreet “Comfort-Hybrid” mode. Gently easing out of the factory gates, the initial movement is almost entirely electric, a silent glide through Maranello’s historic streets. This electric-only mode is a revelation, allowing for emissions-free urban driving and an unprecedented level of refinement. The updated stop-start system, now fully integrated with the hybrid architecture, is imperceptible.
My initial thoughts on the Ferrari GT Lux around town center on two key aspects. First, the acoustic experience. With windows up, the active noise cancellation system works wonders, creating a serene cabin environment. Below 3,000 RPM, the V12 is a distant, cultured rumble. Push past 4,000 RPM, however, and electronically controlled exhaust valves open, unleashing that signature Ferrari symphony – a glorious, brassy roar that fills the cockpit without ever becoming overwhelming. This dual personality – silent urban cruiser, ferocious performance machine – is a testament to Ferrari’s engineering prowess.
Second, the adaptive ride quality. In Comfort mode, the GT Lux feels positively plush, soaking up road imperfections with a sophistication that belies its supercar credentials. The sixth-generation magnetorheological dampers, combined with predictive road-scanning technology, adjust damping rates in milliseconds, preparing the suspension for upcoming bumps. The lightweight steering, incredibly direct and precise, makes maneuvering this substantial vehicle surprisingly effortless. A rear-wheel steering system further aids agility, giving the GT Lux an almost impossibly tight turning radius for a car of its size, making tight city parking and spirited mountain passes equally manageable. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission is a master of versatility; butter-smooth in automatic mode, it effortlessly selects the optimal gear for efficiency, yet instantly sharpens its reflexes when asked. This Ferrari Gran Turismo truly redefines daily drivability without sacrificing an ounce of its pedigree.
But Maranello’s winding backroads are where a Ferrari truly reveals its soul. Switching the Manettino to “Sport+” and engaging manual shift mode, the GT Lux transforms. The electric motor provides instant torque vectoring and fills in any gaps in the V12’s power delivery, creating a brutally linear acceleration that feels relentless. This hybrid performance grand tourer obliterates straightaways with mind-bending velocity.
The ability of this Ferrari to devour challenging, undulating tarmac is nothing short of astonishing. Where lesser cars would jolt and squirm, the GT Lux simply seems to float, distancing the cabin from the chaos below while maintaining an iron grip on the proceedings. Pressing the dedicated Active Suspension button on the steering wheel allows for on-the-fly adjustment to an even softer setting, ideal for severely broken pavement. This means that even as a mountain road plunges downhill through a series of hairpin turns and mid-forest undulations, my right foot remains confidently planted to the floor. The sensation is a captivating blend of adrenaline and pure astonishment. I’ve driven many high-performance luxury sedans and performance SUVs that attempt this blend, but none achieve this level of seamless integration or raw exhilaration. The multi-link rear suspension, optimized with active anti-roll bars, ensures phenomenal stability, making large bumps disappear as if by magic.
Approaching a tight hairpin, I stand hard on the carbon-ceramic brake pedal. The GT Lux sheds speed with shocking immediacy, its next-generation Brembo calipers biting down with immense force. Despite its 4,500-pound curb weight (a testament to the hybrid system and luxurious appointments), the car feels significantly lighter under braking, the regenerative braking system contributing to both efficiency and stopping power. The front tires emit a faint protest, but the car remains composed, tracking true. The Ferrari GT Lux showcases its heft in corners with a controlled, reassuring body roll, signaling its immense grip rather than any hint of instability. Turn-in is razor-sharp, defying its size. While it might not dance on a dime with the same hyper-focus as a track-bred Ferrari 296 GTB, it possesses an athletic agility that inspires absolute confidence for aggressive road driving. It’s a beautifully balanced machine, delivering an immersive, high-fidelity driving experience.
Exiting the turn, the GT Lux rockets forward with an urgency that would humble most dedicated sports cars. The combination of the raw V12 power, the instant electric torque, and the 4RM-EVO all-wheel-drive system provides an almost unfair advantage. This advanced AWD system is a masterpiece of engineering, designed to intervene only when necessary, predominantly sending power to the rear wheels for that classic Ferrari feel. But the moment the traction control sensors detect even a hint of slip, the front-mounted two-speed gearbox, powered by a dedicated electric motor and connected to the V12’s crankshaft, instantly sends precise torque to the front wheels. This intelligent torque distribution ensures maximum grip and acceleration out of every corner, regardless of surface conditions. With ESC Off (the latest regulatory designation for fully disengaged electronic aids), the GT Lux still allows for controlled power oversteer, showcasing its fundamental balance and the driver’s ability to exploit its enormous capabilities.
The 6.5-liter V12, even with hybrid assistance, remains a naturally aspirated marvel. Its power delivery is incredibly linear, a swelling wave of force that builds relentlessly towards its 9,000-rpm redline. Around 5,500 rpm, there’s a noticeable surge, an almost spiritual awakening, as the engine truly comes alive. The howl towards redline is intoxicating, a rich, multi-layered crescendo that perfectly fills the cabin, raising the heartbeat without overwhelming the senses. Given the V12’s immense wide powerband and the hybrid boost, the eight-speed dual-clutch requires surprisingly few shifts on open roads. Second and third gears are often all that’s needed for serious pace, the engine eagerly revving to stratospheric levels. The shifts themselves are lightning-fast, seamless, and accompanied by the signature automated engine blip on downshifts, a symphony of mechanical precision and raw power. Even in automatic mode during a flat-out attack, the transmission is a willing partner, holding gears at high revs and banging off perfect downshifts the instant throttle input changes. This is truly supercar performance for four.
As I return to Maranello, a clear picture of the Ferrari GT Lux emerges. First, it represents a significant leap over its predecessors, the FF and GTC4Lusso. While those were exceptional cars, the GT Lux operates at an entirely different stratum of grand touring performance. It’s faster, more technologically advanced, and somehow even more comfortable and refined, especially on long hauls and diverse road conditions – factors crucial for its luxury tourer segment.
Second, the GT Lux effortlessly surpasses Ferrari’s other GT offerings, carving out a unique niche. Cars like the Ferrari Roma are exquisite, but the GT Lux offers an unparalleled blend of four-seater practicality with hybrid V12 supercar performance. It manages to make every day driving feel special, exciting even during mundane tasks, without ever feeling restrained or agitated. The larger GT Lux delivers an expanded sense of occasion, yet it is smoother, infinitely more comfortable, considerably faster, and remarkably composed as speeds escalate, cementing its place as the definitive all-season luxury sports car.
Handing back the keys is always bittersweet, but my disappointment is short-lived. A subsequent meeting awaits, a chat with Roberto Alessi, Ferrari’s current Chief Technical Officer for GT vehicles. Alessi, a veteran of over two decades at Ferrari, has inherited the mantle from his esteemed predecessors like Roberto Fedeli, overseeing the entire Ferrari new-car development pipeline.
Alessi’s office is a testament to purposeful design: minimalist, with a large digital display showcasing CAD renderings of future projects. He greets me warmly, gesturing towards a conference table. “What are your impressions of the GranTourer Lux?” he asks, a knowing smile playing on his lips.
After sharing my initial thoughts, he probes, “Did you fully appreciate the capabilities of our 4RM-EVO system?” I recount my experience, particularly its seamless, almost invisible intervention. He nods, satisfied. “That’s precisely the objective,” Alessi explains. “The adaptive all-wheel drive engages only when needed, maintaining the pure rear-wheel-drive dynamics for 95% of conditions. But when you need that added grip – whether in inclement weather, on challenging surfaces, or simply for maximum acceleration – the system is there, instantly, enhancing performance and driver confidence without compromising the Ferrari feel.”
I recall the original FF’s emphasis on all-season capability and its unique 4RM system. “Was all-weather performance still a primary driver for the GT Lux?” I inquire.
“Absolutely,” Alessi affirms. “While all Ferraris are engineered for robustness, the GranTourer Lux expands the spectrum. Our customer base for this segment increasingly demands year-round usability. It’s not just about restarting on a snowy incline, which is effortlessly managed now, but about providing a truly sporty driving experience even in conditions that would challenge traditional supercars. The 4RM-EVO allows for precise power delivery in low-grip conditions, offering predictable, exhilarating handling on snow or wet roads, something unique to this class.” He emphasizes that while customer feedback is invaluable, Ferrari’s engineers often pioneer features the market hasn’t yet conceived. “We believe in anticipating future desires, not just reacting to current ones.”
The 4RM-EVO is a direct descendant of the FF’s groundbreaking system, further refined and miniaturized. “We faced immense challenges minimizing weight and packaging intrusion while integrating the hybrid components and maintaining our signature rear-biased weight distribution,” Alessi details. “Our solution involves a more compact, more powerful electric motor driving the front wheels through a bespoke, ultra-lightweight two-speed gearbox that directly interfaces with the V12’s crankshaft. This system now incorporates independent torque control for each front wheel via electronically actuated wet multi-plate clutches, offering true torque vectoring even at the front axle.” The entire system, including its associated electronics, weighs under 70 pounds – a remarkable engineering feat, half the weight of conventional front-axle drive systems in this class.
“The development was grueling,” Alessi admits, his expression reflecting the intensity of such a project. “Inventing components, developing proprietary electronic controls, integrating the hybrid powertrain with both front and rear axles, and meticulously fine-tuning the torque distribution algorithms – it was an enormous undertaking. But it was essential to deliver the unrivaled versatility we envisioned.” He proudly mentions that initial winter testing protocols involved former World Rally Championship drivers to push the system to its absolute limits, further validating its extreme weather capability.
Beyond the powertrain, I ask about other design imperatives for the GT Lux. “Maintaining the dimensional footprint similar to its predecessors while significantly increasing interior volume and luggage capacity was crucial,” Alessi states. “The unique shooting-brake silhouette was re-engineered for optimal cabin space, offering a staggering double the trunk volume of the GTC4Lusso, even before folding the modular rear seats. Every millimeter was optimized, leading to the sophisticated packaging solutions you see.”
He touches upon the evolution of Ferrari’s in-house design philosophy. “The GT Lux is a pure expression of our internal styling department’s maturity. While we cherish the Pininfarina legacy, our internal team has fully come into its own, translating Ferrari DNA into modern, futuristic forms without relying on past retro cues. Each line, each surface, is crafted to be immediately recognizable as Ferrari, independent of any badge. The active aerodynamic elements, the integrated lighting, the unique front air ducts – these are our contemporary interpretations of core brand identity.”
Looking ahead, Alessi’s passion for the future is palpable. “We are in an extraordinary phase of automotive evolution,” he explains. “The GT Lux is a prime example of how we integrate advanced hybrid technology and AI-driven vehicle dynamics while preserving the visceral, emotional connection of a Ferrari. We are constantly exploring next-gen battery technology, sustainable fuel alternatives for our V12s, and bespoke client personalization that goes beyond current offerings.” He hints at further advancements in predictive driving assistance and augmented reality integration for the cabin experience. “Our challenge isn’t just to adopt new technologies, but to adapt them, to make them distinctly Ferrari. We start with a clean sheet every day, inventing the future of high-performance luxury.”
The Ferrari GranTourer Lux is more than a car; it’s a testament to Ferrari’s relentless pursuit of innovation, a vehicle that transcends categories, blending supercar thrills with grand touring comfort and all-weather capability. It’s a bold statement for 2025 and beyond.
Ready to experience the pinnacle of luxury performance and groundbreaking engineering? Dive deeper into the world of the Ferrari GranTourer Lux. Visit your nearest authorized Ferrari dealership or explore our digital configurator to envision your personalized journey into the future of grand touring. Discover how Ferrari is redefining automotive excellence today.
