Wednesday, 11 Mar 2026

title:Ferrari Purosangue: SUV or Sports Car? Review & Drift Test

content:Is the Ferrari Purosangue an SUV or a Sports Car?

If you’ve ever wondered whether a tall, four-door car can still feel like a Ferrari, the Purosangue answers with a resounding yes. In Autocar’s test drive video, the reviewer dives into Ferrari’s refusal to label this vehicle an SUV—instead, it’s a sports car with extra height and practicality. We’ll break down the specs, driving feel, and whether it can drift, so you know exactly what this unique machine offers.

content:Core Specs & Ferrari’s Unique Architecture

Ferrari designed the Purosangue to stand apart from rivals like the Lamborghini Urus or Porsche Cayenne. It uses a largely aluminum monocoque (no shared platform with other brands) and a 6.5L naturally aspirated V12 engine producing 715 brake horsepower. The engine sits behind the front axle, paired with an 8-speed twin-clutch transaxle at the rear—giving it a near-perfect 49:51 front-to-rear weight distribution.

This layout isn’t just for show. It ensures the Purosangue drives like a Ferrari, not an SUV. Even with 22-inch front and 23-inch rear wheels, the multimatic suspension system (with active dampers) delivers a smooth ride—something the reviewer notes is “remarkable” for such large tires.

content:Driving Impressions: Sporty Meets Usable

Steering & Handling

The Purosangue’s steering is quick (2 turns lock-to-lock) but relaxed, avoiding the nervous feel of longer-nose Ferraris. The reviewer praises its balance: “It doesn’t feel like you’re sitting at the back of a long, pointy V12 thing—you’re in the middle of it.” The four-wheel drive system sends most power to the rear, keeping the sporty feel intact.

Practicality

Unlike many rivals, the Purosangue has four doors (with self-opening rear doors) and two rear seats (thanks to the transaxle). It offers 185mm of ground clearance (more than a GT car) and a boot that expands when rear seats fold. Ferrari even sells bespoke accessories for skis or bikes—though no roof rails (they “look ugly”).

content:Can It Drift? Yes—And It’s Balanced

The short answer: absolutely. The reviewer tested the Purosangue on snow with winter tires and found it drifts naturally. The rear-biased power lets you slide, while the four-wheel drive system gently pulls you straight if needed. It’s not a rally car, but it’s more than capable of fun—proof that Ferrari didn’t sacrifice sportiness for practicality.

content:How It Compares to Rivals

Ferrari says the Purosangue has no direct rivals, and the reviewer agrees. Unlike the Urus (shared platform with Audi) or DBX (Aston Martin’s first SUV), the Purosangue is built from scratch for sports car performance. It’s pricier (starting at £315k in the UK), but it offers a unique blend of Ferrari DNA and daily usability.

content:Toolbox & Action Guide

Immediately Actionable Checklist

  1. Test drive in wet/snowy conditions to feel the suspension’s adaptability.
  2. Check the boot space with rear seats folded for your hobbies (skis, bikes).
  3. Ask about drift mode settings to experience its sporty side.
  4. Compare to rivals (Urus, DBX) for practicality vs. sportiness.

Advanced Resource Recommendations

  • Autocar’s Full Review: For in-depth technical details on the Purosangue’s suspension system.
  • Ferrari Official Website: To explore bespoke accessories (like ski racks) for practicality.

content:Conclusion & Engagement

The Ferrari Purosangue isn’t an SUV—it’s a sports car with SUV-like practicality. It balances power, handling, and usability in a way no rival does.

Now, over to you: Would you choose the Purosangue over a Lamborghini Urus or Aston Martin DBX? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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