Told You So: The Ferrari Testarossa Is Back For 2026

Michael Accardi
by Michael Accardi

Ferrari just pulled the sheet off its new 849 Testarossa, the long-awaited successor to the SF90 Stradale. Earlier this year, we reported that everyone's favorite Ferrari name was returning, based on trademark filings, and now the rumors have been confirmed.

Key Points

  • The re-engineered twin-turbo V8 and three electric motors deliver a combined 1,035 hp, launching the car to 62 mph in just 2.25 seconds.
  • Active twin-tail spoilers, bigger cooling intakes, and Ferrari’s advanced FIVE control system improve cornering, cooling, and downforce (415 kg at 155 mph).
  • Offered in both coupe and Spider forms from €460,000, with the Assetto Fiorano package trimming weight and adding race-ready upgrades.

The name calls back one of Ferrari’s most famous models from the 1980s—but there's literally nothing retro about the new Testarossa. The new cavallino is all about cutting-edge hybrid technology, track-derived aerodynamics, and four-figure performance numbers.


At its core, the 849 Testarossa builds on the SF90’s template: a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 paired with three electric motors. Two motors power the front wheels while a third MGU assists the rear axle, delivering all-wheel drive with torque vectoring.

The V8 itself has been thoroughly reworked with bigger turbos, new cylinder heads, a revised block, updated intake and valvetrain, plus lightweight titanium hardware. Output from the combustion engine has increased to 818 horsepower in the Testarossa, compared to 769 in the SF90. A high-mounted Inconel exhaust promises a sharper soundtrack.


Cooling has also been improved with asymmetric radiators and an upgraded intercooler—the 849 requires 15% more cooling than the SF90; this is achieved through deeper side intakes and a revised channel system in the doors.

The electric side of the equation remains capped at 217 hp from a 7.45 kWh battery, bringing the Redhead's combined system output to just over 1,035 hp. That translates to staggering acceleration: 0–62 mph in 2.25 seconds and 0–124 mph in 6.3 seconds. Around Ferrari’s Fiorano circuit, the 849 is 1.5 seconds quicker than the SF90, lapping in 1:17.5.


Helping the Testa put down that pace is a retuned suspension, Ferrari’s updated ABS Evo braking system, and new tire options from Michelin, Pirelli, and Bridgestone. The car also debuts Ferrari’s Integrated Vehicle Estimator (FIVE) system, which predicts driver inputs and vehicle behavior in real time to optimize chassis, powertrain, and braking performance.

Downforce is up to 915 pounds at 155 mph, aided by an active central rear spoiler flanked by twin static winglets that define the car’s “twin-tail” design. Ferrari design chief Flavio Manzoni said the twin rear spoilers are a nod to Ferrari's history, inspired by 1970s endurance racers. Up front, the car echoes Maranello's modern design language from the Ferrari F80 and 12Cilindri—allegedly, the massive side intakes were so complex they took two years to perfect.


For buyers chasing ultimate pista performance, the Assetto Fiorano package trims 66 pounds via more titanium, carbon fiber components, lightweight seats, and carbon wheels. Multimatic dampers and additional aero upgrades further sharpen its edge.

Inside, Ferrari has ditched controversial touch-sensitive steering wheel controls in favor of physical buttons. The driver-focused cockpit includes a new digital cluster with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, MyFerrari Connect, and wireless charging.


The 849 Testarossa will launch in both coupe and Spider forms, the latter featuring a retractable metal hardtop that adds around 200 pounds. Pricing in Europe starts at $540,000 for the coupe and $586,000 for the Spider, with the Assetto Fiorano option adding $62,000. Deliveries are expected to begin in mid-2026.


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Michael Accardi
Michael Accardi

An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.

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