Ferrari Purosangue – Maranello’s first SUV and what it means

Ferrari's first 4 door car

Ferrari has always been synonymous with two-door sports cars and racing pedigree. For decades, the brand resisted the SUV wave that transformed companies like Porsche and Lamborghini. But in 2022, Ferrari broke tradition by unveiling the Purosangue, its first four-door, four-seater model with SUV proportions. The move sparked debate among purists, but it also signaled Ferrari’s adaptation to changing markets.

Breaking Tradition

Ferrari previously declared it would never build an SUV. Former chairman Luca di Montezemolo famously stated, “You have to shoot me first” when asked about such a possibility. Yet the reality of the luxury market evolved. SUVs became the fastest-growing segment, even among ultra-premium brands. Porsche’s Cayenne and Macan account for most of its global sales. Lamborghini’s Urus quickly became its bestseller. Ferrari could not ignore the trend forever.

The Purosangue (“thoroughbred” in Italian) is Ferrari’s response. It blends the brand’s DNA of performance and design with the practicality of a high-riding four-door vehicle. But calling it “just another SUV” would be a mistake. Ferrari insists the Purosangue is in a category of its own.

Performance First

At its core, the Purosangue is a Ferrari. Under the hood sits a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine producing 715 horsepower and revving to 8,250 rpm. Few SUVs—if any—offer such an experience. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of over 310 km/h. Ferrari designed it with a transaxle layout and active suspension technology to deliver handling that feels closer to a sports car than an SUV.

Design and Space

The Purosangue’s design respects Ferrari tradition while adapting to its new format. The long bonnet, sculpted lines, and wide stance give it a dynamic appearance. Instead of conventional SUV proportions, it looks more like a stretched GT car on tall wheels. Inside, the cabin offers genuine space for four adults. Rear-hinged back doors improve access, while the interior features Ferrari’s driver-focused digital displays and luxurious materials.

Market Impact

By launching the Purosangue, Ferrari entered a new customer segment without alienating its core base. Importantly, production was capped at around 20% of Ferrari’s annual output, ensuring exclusivity.

When the car was first delivered, demand far exceeded supply. Buyers paid massive premiums, with some Purosangues trading well above MSRP in the secondary market. But the hype has since cooled. By 2025, the situation reversed—cars are now readily available at dealerships, often at a discount. This sudden shift reflects broader market trends: an oversupply of luxury SUVs, rising interest rates, and a more selective buyer base. What was once Ferrari’s hottest launch now illustrates how even Maranello isn’t immune to economic cycles.

Competition and Future

The Purosangue competes with the Lamborghini Urus, Aston Martin DBX, Bentley Bentayga, and Rolls-Royce Cullinan. Yet Ferrari’s offering is unique thanks to its V12 engine and focus on driver engagement. It proves that the SUV format can still embody Ferrari’s spirit.

Long term, the Purosangue opens the door for future Ferrari models to embrace electrification and practicality. As emissions regulations tighten, hybrid or electric SUVs may follow. But for now, the Purosangue stands as a bold declaration: Ferrari adapts, but never compromises.

Conclusion

The Ferrari Purosangue is more than just Maranello’s first SUV—it is a statement of intent. It shows Ferrari can evolve while staying true to its heritage. For customers, it represents the best of both worlds: Ferrari performance with everyday usability. For the brand, it ensures continued growth in a changing industry—even if the market has already shown how quickly fortunes can change.