Ferrari 488 GTB unveiled as a 660-hp turbo coupe; hear it roar

In the inevitable march toward ever-faster Ferraris, the 488 GTB unveiled today ahead of the Geneva Motor Show next month marks a major turning point. As expected, the mid-engine GTB is faster, more powerful and generally sleeker than the 458 Italia it will supplant. All of that comes thanks to a new turbocharged engine — and from today forward, there may never be a new Ferrari without a turbo again.

Sculpted by Ferrari's own stylists rather than an outside firm, the 488 GTB features an evolution of the 458 Italia's face with heftier rear intakes resting just behind the passenger's shoulders. Behind them lives a 3.9-liter V-8 — which, Ferrari claims, is a new engine, although it's not clear just how different it is from the 3.9-liter twin-turbo V-8 fitted in the Ferrari California T. That engine makes 552 hp; the new GTB arrives with 660 hp at 8,000 rpm and 560 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm.

Compared to the regular 458 Italia, the new 488 GTB makes a traditional step forward in pure speed. Where the Italia takes all of 3.4 seconds to reach 62 mph, the 488 GTB does so in a flat 3 seconds, with a top speed of 205 mph. All of which Ferrari claims is more accessible than ever, thanks to new software systems like its variable torque managment and side-slip angle control system, along with aerodynamic tricks that boost downforce 50 percent over the 458 with less drag.

Turbo engines are the future, whether you're driving a Ferrari or an F-150; there's just no better way to generate the power car buyers want and meet the fuel economy rules regulators demand. For Ferrari, this presents a special challenge; the soul of a Ferrari arises in large part from its unique sound. Ferrari says it's spent extra effort to get the aural signature of the 488 GTB just right; listen to the video above and see if you agree. Right or wrong, it's the only way forward from here.