Cover A grand tour of New Zealand with Ferrari

Tatler joins a fleet of Ferrari’s latest, the Purosangue, on the final leg of an epic journey through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand

In the grand tradition of exploration and opulence, Ferrari orchestrated yet another breathtaking automotive odyssey, this time setting its sights on the pristine landscapes of New Zealand. Previous such adventures took various Ferraris across the Himalayas, through the vast expanse of the United States and one across the entire globe, this latest escapade would showcase the prowess of Ferrari’s newest creation, the Purosangue, as it embarked on a mesmerising Grand Tour through some of the world’s most wondrous terrain.

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Above The automotive journey spanned 3000 kilometres over three weeks

Spanning a formidable 3000 kilometres in total across the North and South Islands, the journey unfolded over three weeks, divided into five legs, traversing varied terrains and captivating vistas. Our entrance into this enchanting expedition commenced in the picturesque haven of Queenstown, nestled amidst the majestic peaks of South Island—a fitting prologue to the splendour that awaited. Our intended destination of Milford Sound necessitated two days to cover some 600 kilometres to and fro, stopping for rest and thoughtfully curated culinary delights along the way.

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Above The Purosangue, Ferrari’s first-ever four-door sports vehicle

The main focal point of this escapade, the Purosangue, Ferrari’s first-ever four-door sports vehicle, emerges as an embodiment of artistry and innovation. A significant departure from conventional SUV tropes so much so it cannot really be called one. It vies for distinction alongside esteemed counterparts like the Rolls Royce Cullinan, exuding an aura of audacious exclusivity that eclipses the Lamborghini Urus or Bentley’s Bentayga.

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Above The Purosangue epitomizes Ferrari’s quintessential allure

Crafted under the discerning eye of styling virtuoso Flavio Manzoni, the Purosangue epitomizes Ferrari’s quintessential allure—its contours appear purposeful, svelte, and exquisitely sporty. Even its unique rear-hinged passenger door makes a bold statement as well as being more practical. It stands as a testament to Ferrari’s legacy, making it a standout amidst the panorama of automotive marvels.

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Above It boasts a rare, naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine

At the heart of this marvel lies a naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine—a rarity in an era increasingly defined by turbocharging and electrification. Producing a formidable 725 horsepower at 7750 rpm, with a crescendo capped at 8000 rpm, this engine beckons to purists and aficionados who swiftly booked out the entire V12 Purosangue production run.

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Above The Purosangue is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds

Beyond its raw power, the symphony orchestrated by this V12 powerplant remains aural poetry, even if subdued by reason of regulatory compliance. Teamed with Ferrari’s seven-speed F1 DCT and their proprietary AWD system, the Purosangue sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 3.3 seconds, surging to 310 km/h with effortless grace.

Despite its stature—a blend of grandeur and agility—the Purosangue defies the bulkiness of its 2033 kg frame, thanks to its remarkably sharp steering and nimble handling. Behind this feat lies Ferrari’s active suspension technology enabled by Multimatic’s True Active Spool Valve (TASV) System that elevates the driving experience, a true revelation underscored by an impromptu comparison with a lesser SUV over the same route.

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Above The interior of the Purosangue

Adorned with an array of controls and switchgear, the Purosangue’s Manettino steering wheel boasts fingertip precision, albeit bordering on complexity—a magnet for tech enthusiasts enamoured by intricate electronics. Yet, amidst this labyrinth of controls, seating comfort reigns supreme, a novel experience for Ferrari, complemented by outstanding outward visibility.

In the realm of exclusivity, the Purosangue assumes an elite status, especially in locales like Singapore, where a mere 40 examples will find their home, each commanding a price around S$2.5 million when optioned and registered—a testament to its rarity and allure in the discerning world of automotive connoisseurship. One can only hope that like their grand touring coupes, the GTC4Lusso and GTC4Lusso T, Ferrari will create a turbocharged V8 version of the Purosangue for more to have an opportunity to own this beauty.

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Above Ferrari Purosangue in red and blue

Ferrari Purosangue

Engine: 6.5-litre V12, naturally aspirated
Power: 725hp at 7750rpm
Torque: 716Nm at 6250rpm
0-100km/h: 3.3 seconds
0-200km/h: 10.6 seconds
Top Speed: over 310 km/h
Gearbox: Eight-Speed F1 DCT
Agent: Ital Auto Pte Ltd

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Images: Ferrari Press

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