Ferrari's first SUV tested: a review of the groundbreaking Purosangue

The name Purosangue directly translates to "pure blood" in Italian. However, with some nuance in translation, it takes on a meaning fitting for a brand synonymous with horses. This debut vehicle from Ferrari marks a departure as its first more practical, higher-riding model. Specifically, the Purosangue is Ferrari's first four-door, four-seat SUV with all-wheel drive. It features a mighty 6.5-litre V12 engine under the hood.

While having the outward appearance of an SUV, Ferrari claims the Purosangue should define its category. The company asserts it is altogether its own thing, not simply an SUV. This is notable given the rise of hyper-powered SUVs from Lamborghini, Aston Martin and others. As those vehicles focus overwhelmingly on brute strength through electronics and huge engines over actual driving dynamics, there is a discussion about what sport implies for these types of high-performance utility vehicles.

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The Purosangue bucks SUV trends by being one of the most genuine sporting representatives of the class. It could be argued that by following the SUV formula to the specifications - four seats, rear hatch, etc. - it adheres closest to the acronym. Access to the plush rear compartment is achieved through rear-opening doors. Power comes from a mighty yet unique 6.5-liter V12 making 715 horsepower - a cylinder layout not seen since specific Lamborghini and Audi models. Ferrari equipped the mid-mounted engine with bits from their extensive parts bin, stuffing it so far forward that the last cylinders should warm the knees of rear passengers.

The front-mid engine layout is evident. An eight-speed paddle-shifted gearbox resides at the rear, paired with a power take-off unit (borrowed from another Ferrari model) operating two clutches to power each front wheel. Though all-wheel drive, it feels decidedly rear-biased under most circumstances due to its rear-engine design heritage. This is a car that drives very much like a rear driver. 

The Purosangue offers innovations inside and out. The refreshed interior features new ways to interact with systems - see the Interior section for more details. A clever suspension allows both exemplary Ferrari handling and comfortable GT qualities desired in an SUV. Head to the Driving tab to learn more about its dynamic abilities.

However, there is no electrification whatsoever, so fuel consumption sits high. Emissions total 393g/km of CO2 with the combined economy at a low 16.3mpg.

The performance credentials are enticing: 0-62mph in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 193mph. Finally, the base price is £313,360. Given Ferrari's optional extras, few Purosangues will leave the lot costing less than £400k once fully equipped. Overall, while pushing boundaries, questions remain about its environmental impact.

Setting price aside, the Purosangue surpasses its key rivals, the Urus and DBX. Unlike those vehicles, it does not utilize pre-existing parts from other brands within the parent company. The Urus significantly shares platforms, engines, and technology with Audi, Bentley, and Porsche. The DBX borrows powertrain technology from Mercedes-Benz. Both of these SUVs, along with other competitors, adhere to a conventional SUV layout that prioritizes practicality and passenger space above all else. However, the Purosangue does not take this approach. Instead, it places being a true Ferrari first and foremost, designing the interior space around maintaining its performance-focused DNA rather than maximizing practical features. This results in a unique proposition compared to its crossover competitors.