Ferrari Malaysia launches all-new 2021 Portofino M, check full details

KUALA LUMPUR: Naza Italia, the official distributor of Ferrari in Malaysia now has a new model in its lineup, the Portofino M. Wondering what the 'M' stands for, well if your guesses are Malaysia, Maranello, or Monza then you are wrong. The M here refers to 'Modificat' which the automaker historically used for cars 'that have undergone an evolution that has significantly bolstered their performance’.

What powers the 2021 Ferrari Portofino M?

The new Portofino M is powered by a 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 powertrain that has been reworked to a BE specification. Thus pumping out a maximum power of 620 PS (20 PS more) at 5,750 to 7,500 rpm along with a peak torque of 760 Nm from 3,000 to 5,750 rpm.

Also, part of the kit is a new gearbox. The new 8-speed F1 dual-clutch unit replaces the previous-gen 7-speed F1 dual-clutch transmission.

On the performance front, the car can touch the century sprint in just 3.45 seconds and the 200 kmph mark is touched in 9.8 seconds. The top speed is rated at 320 kmph.

Braking and suspension front

Compared to the previous-gen model, the new Portofino M benefits from an upgraded braking system - now with more modulable brake pedal pressure and 10 per cent reduced pedal travel. All this results in a quicker, more precise braking input response. Suspension is taken care of by Magneride dual-mode setup.

Overall, the Ferrari's renewed front-engine convertible supercar is efficient, easy to drive. Also, its improved clutch control makes low-speed drives in traffic super smooth.

Adding to its driving dynamics are modern-day Ferrari staples like - Side Slip Control, a five-position Manettino (offers driving presets from Race, Wet, Comfort, Sport, and ESC-Off conditions). Also, included in the list are advanced driver assistance systems, including AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beam.

Design improvements

Apart from enhanced power output, a new gearbox, and fresh equipment, the Portofino M showcases a revised exterior as well. For instance, the latest Ferrari gets a new bumper with redesigned side intakes and new air vents at the wheel arch, new aluminium slats on grille outer edges, a new exhaust system allowing for a more streamlined bumper assembly, a new diffuser, and lastly new, specific diamond-finish, 5-spoke 20-inch wheel design wrapped in 245/35 front and 285/30 rear tyre.

Cabin improvements

Sadly there are no major inclusions inside the cabin and it essentially has been carried over to the M. Here are a few unavoidable equipment found inside the Portofino M -

• Instrument cluster with dual TFT displays
• 10.5-inch central touchscreen
• Centre console
• Retractable hard top (opening and closing in 14 seconds)

Safety and driver assist components

•  Adaptive cruise control with Stop&Go function
• Blind spot monitoring
• Predictive emergency brake system
• Rear cross traffic alert
• Lane departure warning
• Automatic high beam
• Traffic sign recognition
• 3D surround view camera

Price

The Malaysian-spec Portofino M price tag is a little below the million-Ringgit mark, RM 998,000 to be exact (before factoring in taxes, insurance, duties, and customisation options).

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