Ferrari California T Handling Speciale

That variant boasts what is called the Handling Speciale package, or “HS”, and it aims to turn up the heat on an already spicy Ferrari. In the corners, however, it isn’t as hardcore as some of the Italian brand’s mid-engined cars.

Few would fault the all-new Ferrari California T on its sportiness.

Due to be officially unveiled at the Geneva motor show on March 1, the Ferrari California T Handling Speciale (HS) promises to raise the car’s game so that its poise in the bends is equal to its visual panache.

Ferrari claim the changes “although marginally reducing ride comfort, results in even sportier feedback”. Ferrari has also worked on the gear shift logic for the Sport mode for quicker both up and downshifts.

One staple of the sports vehicle manufacturer is its distinct roaring exhaust sound. This new units has revised silencers, two primary pipes, and new geometry to deliver an even more pronounced growl, especially as the driver pushes deeper into the rev band. There are new magnetorheological dampers that improve the car’s response speed and efficiency. The exhaust’s new, fuller and richer growl is instantly recognizable as soon as you hit the Start button.

Cosmetic changes for the HS include a new front grille in matte finish and a rear diffuser in the same colour with matte black fences and matte black tailpipes. Inside the cabin, the HS package gets a special plaque indicating this is no normal California T. Though these design cues highlight the sportier nature of the new package, the California T still retains its sophisticated and elegant design. Scheduled to appear at the Geneva Motor Show this year, the California T equipped with the Handling Speciale package is as fast as it is furious.