A series of firsts

The California is packed with firsts for Ferrari, led by a folding metal roof, a front-mounted direct-injection V8 engine and a twin-clutch semi-automatic gearbox.

It's also the first for a long time without double wishbone rear suspension. Instead, there's a multi-link arrangement, which much better suits the California's role as a sports-GT.

You can buy it as a two-plus-two or a two-seater and if family circumstances change, it's even possible to swap it around later. In two-seater mode there's space for a couple of roller suitcases or golf bags in the cabin.

If you intend to use the rear for passengers, you'd best make sure they're small, and there are child-seat mounting points with that in mind. The backrests fold down to allow through-loading, and there's also a ski hatch.