Ferrari 488 GTB unveiled ahead of Geneva

Less of a completely new model and more of an evolution, the latest mid-engined V8 supercar from Ferrari is the first in history to get a turbocharger.

To be precise, it's a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 and when both turbos are scrolling up the result is 660bhp, a substantial improvement over the normally aspirated V8 that powered the 458 Italia, this car's predecessor.

But as well as more power, it's also faster -- faster than its current closest competitor, the McLaren 650S. Ferrari is claiming a 0-100kph time of just 3 seconds and a top speed of 208mph (334kph). Most impressively, thanks to a smaller cubic capacity and horsepower generated by turbos, the 488GTB is more economical than the car it will be replacing.

But emissions is the only area in which Ferrari is holding back. The 488GTB has a revised double clutch, seven-speed paddle-shift gearbox and updates to the intelligent traction control and differential system and to the stability control, meaning that drivers will be able to use more of the car's ferocious power more of the time without leaving the track in a tight bend.

The exterior that wraps around all of this engineering excellence is once again designed by Pininfarina and picks up where the 458 Italia left off. The new car retains the same proportions and stance but appears more balanced. The biggest visual differences between the old and new car are the front nose air inlets and the side venting over the rear wheel arches that improve cooling and down force -- the inlets are actually integrated spoilers. Inside, the cabin has had another upgrade too. Ferrari is persisting with the multifunction steering wheel which is great on the track but confusing on normal roads but the infotainment system is new as are the lever switches and even the air vents.

The car will make its official debut in Geneva in March, and expect it to be joined in the not to distant future by a convertible version.