In a world increasingly dominated by electrification and turbocharged efficiency, Ferrari dares to go against the grain with the stunning debut of the 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri. This new grand tourer is more than just a successor to the 812 Superfast — it's a bold declaration that the naturally aspirated V12 engine still has a place in the modern era of performance cars.
Ferrari has long been synonymous with passionate engineering, timeless design, and visceral driving experiences. The name itself — "12Cilindri" — is a straightforward homage to what lies at its heart: a magnificent twelve-cylinder engine, unburdened by forced induction or hybrid assistance. Launched as both a coupe and a convertible (Spider), the 12Cilindri has already made waves for its striking styling and impressive power figures.
Design and Inspiration
The design of the 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri is a masterclass in combining heritage with innovation. With this model, Ferrari draws direct inspiration from one of its most celebrated front-engine V12 grand tourers — the 1968 Ferrari 365 GTB/4, affectionately known as the Daytona. From the front, the 12Cilindri makes a powerful first impression. A full-width LED light bar replaces traditional headlamp designs, creating a futuristic, aggressive look. It’s accentuated by deep air intakes and a sharply sculpted hood, emphasizing both form and function.
Strong character lines, flush door handles, and subtle aero detailing create a sense of motion even when the car is at a standstill. The integrated spoiler, quad exhaust setup, and slim taillights deliver a balance of refinement and menace. Active aerodynamic elements are subtly integrated to optimize downforce without disturbing the car’s timeless lines.
Engine and Performance
At the core of the 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri is a mechanical masterpiece: a 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine that roars with old-school intensity and modern precision. It produces a staggering 819 horsepower (830 CV) at a spine-tingling 9,500 rpm, making it one of the most powerful naturally aspirated production engines ever built.
The 12Cilindri’s performance figures are fitting for such a potent engine. It rockets from 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in just 2.9 seconds, and from 0 to 200 km/h (124 mph) in approximately 7.9 seconds. Its top speed exceeds 340 km/h (211 mph) — true supercar territory. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which Ferrari has tuned for faster shift times and improved efficiency compared to the 812’s 7-speed unit. Whether cruising in automatic mode or using the paddle shifters for manual control, gear changes are lightning-quick and buttery smooth, enhancing both comfort and performance.
To handle the immense power, Ferrari has equipped the 12Cilindri with a suite of advanced performance systems. Side Slip Control 8.0, rear-wheel steering, and Ferrari’s latest version of its magnetorheological suspension work together to deliver exceptional agility and stability, whether carving through mountain roads or devouring laps on a racetrack.
Technology and Features
Advanced Vehicle Dynamics
Ferrari’s renowned expertise in chassis dynamics is on full display in the 12Cilindri. The car comes equipped with the latest evolution of Side Slip Control (SSC) 8.0, a sophisticated system that seamlessly integrates electronic aids like traction control. One of the standout features is four-wheel steering (Virtual Short Wheelbase 3.0), which improves agility at low speeds and stability at high speeds. It enables the rear wheels to turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels during tight maneuvers and in the same direction during high-speed cornering, making the 12Cilindri feel both nimble and planted.
This system provides a rare balance between ride comfort and razor-sharp handling — essential for a grand tourer expected to cover long distances at high speeds.
Infotainment and Interior Tech
The driver is presented with a fully digital instrument cluster, showcasing everything from performance metrics and navigation to driving modes in a crisp, customizable layout. A standout addition is the dual-display setup, which includes a secondary screen for the passenger. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice commands, Bluetooth connectivity, and real-time navigation, all integrated seamlessly into the interior's minimalist, motorsport-inspired design.
Aerodynamic Innovations
Active aerodynamics also play a crucial role. While Ferrari has avoided large, visually disruptive wings or diffusers, the 12Cilindri features movable aerodynamic components that adjust based on speed and driving conditions to increase downforce or reduce drag when needed.
The Spider Variant
While mechanically identical to its hardtop sibling, the Spider variant delivers a more visceral and emotional driving experience, allowing drivers to fully immerse themselves in the sound and sensation of the naturally aspirated V12.
Design and Roof Mechanism
The 12Cilindri Spider retains the same elegant proportions and aerodynamic lines as the coupe, with subtle design adjustments to accommodate its retractable roof. Ferrari has engineered a retractable hardtop (RHT) that folds seamlessly into the rear deck, preserving both style and structural integrity. The roof can open or close in around 14 seconds, even while the car is moving at low speeds — making it ideal for spontaneous top-down driving. A deployable wind deflector and aerodynamic tuning ensure that top-down driving remains comfortable at high speeds, with minimal turbulence inside the cabin.
Driving Experience
The open-top configuration significantly amplifies the sensory experience. The Spider retains the same 819 hp output and 2.9-second 0–100 km/h acceleration, thanks to minimal weight penalties and careful engineering to maintain chassis rigidity.
Availability and Exclusivity
The 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri, both in coupe and Spider form, is not just another grand tourer — it’s a collector-grade Ferrari that will likely be produced in limited numbers, adding to its desirability and long-term value. While Ferrari has not yet confirmed official production limits, the company’s typical approach to its V12 flagship models suggests that availability will be tightly controlled and highly exclusive.
Selective Allocation
In essence, the 12Cilindri is not just a car you can buy — it’s a car you’re invited to buy. This level of exclusivity is part of Ferrari’s brand philosophy: keep production numbers low enough to maintain demand and preserve long-term prestige, while rewarding the most passionate members of its global community.
