2010 Ferrari 458 Italia

The Ferrari 458 is a new model for 2010, intended to replace the F430, one of Ferrari's most popular models. The new 458 is better in every measurable way, and the styling is also an evolution of the 430's looks--the newer car's got sharper corners, better aerodynamics and bigger standard wheels.

Power comes from a 4.5L V8 engine mounted mid-ship, and makes an impressive 570 horsepower and 398 lb-feet of torque. It's only available with a 7-speed double-clutch transmission, connected to the rear wheels via a limited slip differential. The suspension is of the active self-leveling variety.

In an effort to improve fuel economy, the 458 employs several fuel-saving technologies. A type of "multi-displacement" system that turns off some cylinders when they're not needed and an innovative alternator that only charges the battery when the car is decelerating or coasting helps reduce parasitic loss on the engine, is also used to improve fuel economy.

The 458 gets big 20-inch alloy wheels and Z-rated tires as standard equipment. Up front, the Ferrari's headlamps are composed of a series of advanced LEDs, which are brighter, consume less energy and last longer than conventional bulbs. Inside, power windows and locks are standard as is dual-zone climate control. Safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control as well as tire pressure monitoring.

Like many exotics, the Ferrari 458 is available in a dizzying array of colors, including five shades of blue, seven shades of gray and three reds. If none of them are to the customer's liking, custom paint is available. The standard seats are beige leather, but can be optioned with blue, charcoal, gray or any number of other hues.

The customization options menu is extensive, and includes a special performance brakes, run-flat tires, carbon fiber trim, a premium JBL stereo with 11 speakers and iPod integration. Power seats are optional, as is navigation and cruise control. A parking camera is a $3,463 option and parking sensors cost $2,203.
The 458 is a new model for Ferrari in 2010, replacing last years, much-loved, F430 model. The 458 is more technologically advanced, more powerful and even more fuel-efficient in every way than its predecessor.
Aggressive styling; extraordinary power and handling; world-leading technology; standard 7-speed transmission
The new 458's base price hovers right around $225,000, which places it among the most expensive of the performance cars available in North America. The Lamborghini Gallardo and Porsche S Turbo may compete in terms of performance, style and price, but the Ferrari 458 brings extensive racing heritage and the newest in fuel-efficiency technology. A multi-displacement system, active aerodynamics and a clever alternator that only charges the battery when the engine is not under load are among the technologies Ferrari has employed to increase vehicle efficiency. The 458 also promises, like most Ferraris, to not be a stripped track-ready racecar, but rather a leather-clad, Bluetooth equipped ride that can be driven comfortably to work or wrung out confidently on any competition tarmac in the world.