New Ferrari F8 Tributo Set to Replace Outgoing 488 GTB

Can you believe it has been four years since Ferrari unveiled the current 488 GTB as a replacement to the 458?

Yes, it’s been four years and the 488 GTB’s run is coming to an end. The call will be replaced by the new Ferrari F8 Tributo set to debut at next week’s Geneva Auto Show.

It is at that same show that Ferrari introduced the 488 GTB four years ago. Now, Geneva will be the sight of a brand-new Ferrari in 2019.

The F8 Tributo is beautiful as any Ferrari is, but it’s not all that different from a 488 GTB visually. From a functional stand point, it improves aerodynamics by 10 percent which is quite impressive. But, we wouldn’t be surprised if some felt that despite being a new design language for Ferrari and despite the obvious link to the 308 GTB, the F8 Tributo isn’t distinct enough from the 488 GTB. On the other hand, the differences are more striking seen from the rear 3/4 angle.

You could quickly spot the differences when the Gran Turismo Berlinetta was introduced as the 458’s replacement back when, but the differences between the GTB and the F8 aren’t as obvious.

What is obvious is that this will be a very fast automobile. Think about the Ferrari Pista and you will get good sense of what the new Ferrari F8 Tributo is about.

A twin-turbo 3.9-liter V8 engine churns out 710 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque, 50 more ponies than the 488 GTB. Considering that the F8 Tributo weighs 40 kilos less, we’re not surprised Ferrari says it can reach 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds. Top speed is rated at 211 mph or 340 km/h.

Technology is at your service to make the F8 Tributo go fast and faster. A revised Side Slip Angle Control unit means more drifting and an updated Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer which is available in Race Mode and also aims to make the car easier to drive at speed.

Inside, the design is pure Ferrari. Changes over the 488 GTB include a new steering wheel and round air vents along with a new 8.25-inch passenger-side touchscreen.