A new version of the Ferrari California convertible could arrive just in time for spring.
Motor Trend reports that Ferrari will revamp the California for the 2015 model year, including giving it the company’s first turbocharged engine since the F40 supercar.
There have been rumors that Ferrari would try turbocharging again as a way to improve fuel economy, but the new V8 destined for the California should improve its performance as well.
The engine will reportedly be based on Maserati’s 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8, but with all-Ferrari components. The Maserati version already makes 523 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, which is more than the current California’s 483 hp and 372 lb-ft.
The updates will also address two of the current California’s weaknesses: styling and tech.
The new California is expected to get some new body panels, which will hopefully make the styling look less awkward. The current car has too many details that seem randomly inserted, without a pleasing overall shape to tie them together.
It’s also known for clunky navigation and infotainment systems, which are actually shared with plebeian Chryslers. The new car may also get a repackaged Chrysler system, but it will at least be able to take advantage of the improvements that came with the latest UConnect system.
The California has always been a somewhat odd car for Ferrari. With its front-mounted V8, folding hardtop, and cushy interior, it seems to have more in common with a Mercedes-Benz SL than an F12berlinetta.
Still, Ferrari knows its customers. Specifically, it knows that most of them spend more time cruising the Pacific Coast Highway than tackling the Corkscrew at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.
So while the current California’s busy styling and laid-back manner don’t impress hardcore fans, there are still plenty of people willing to park this Prancing Horse in their stable.
Given its expected Spring 2014 on-sale date, the 2015 Ferrari California will likely appear at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March.
