It’s been nearly a decade since Ferrari introduced a new model in its exclusive XX series of supercars, but the arrival of the SF90 XX Stradale and Spider is sure to make up for the wait. With a plug-in hybrid powertrain producing over 1000bhp, the SF90 XX is not only the first road-legal XX model, but its production in limited numbers exceeds that of all previous XX examples combined. The Stradale will have 799 units while the Spider will have 599 units.

With a starting price of £673k for the Stradale, it’s evident that opening up the XX order books will significantly benefit Ferrari. However, it raises the question of whether the XX program has been diluted. While customers of the SF90 XX won’t have access to the exclusive track testing privileges of previous XX variants, much of the exclusivity has been removed. So what does the SF90 XX offer exactly?

More power, but not by much

The regular SF90 already boasts an impressive 986bhp from its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 and triple e-motor setup. In the XX configuration, power is increased to 1016bhp. Improved efficiency in the internal combustion engine is achieved through polishing the inlet and exhaust ducts, increasing the compression ratio with new pistons, and specific machining of the combustion chamber. Additionally, the electric motors feature extra boost vehicle dynamics logic, which provides short bursts of additional power when the eManettino is set to its Qualifying mode. The XX is equipped with a maximum of 30 boosts that are automatically deployed for reduced lap times.

More aero, more pace

Given that the base car already boasts 1000bhp, there isn’t much room for improvement in straight-line performance for the SF90 XX. Instead, Ferrari has concentrated on enhancing aerodynamics to achieve faster lap times. The XX generates double the downforce of the regular SF90, thanks to a large fixed rear wing that creates 315kg of downforce over the rear end at 155mph. The rear diffuser has been redesigned, along with modifications to the trailing edge, to keep the car’s wake compact. The front of the car features redesigned louvres, S-Ducts, and a wider front splitter, resulting in 20% more front downforce.

How does the SF90 XX drive?

Our brief drive of the SF90 XX on Ferrari’s Fiorano testing circuit revealed its impressive straight-line speed. The power delivery, combined with the electric boost, enhances acceleration out of corners, and the XX feels significantly quicker than the regular SF90. The car achieves 0-62mph in just 2.3 seconds and 0-124mph in 6.7 seconds. The gear changes are crisp and the sound is improved, with a more intense and distinctive feel to the gearshifts.

In terms of handling, the SF90 XX shows improvement over the regular SF90, but it requires a high level of driver skill to fully exploit its performance capabilities. The car’s weight transfer and grip levels are excellent, and it has a front-limited balance, allowing for confident cornering. However, pushing the car too much on entry can result in loss of lap time. The SF90 XX features Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer 2.0 and ABS EVO controller, which enhance the driving experience.

Verdict

The SF90 XX is an exceptional car that delivers remarkable performance on the track while remaining road-legal. Its upgraded aero and extra power make it significantly faster than the regular SF90. However, compared to other Ferrari models, the SF90 XX may not be as likable or engaging. It requires a specific driving style and the highest level of skill to fully enjoy its capabilities. Nevertheless, as a track-focused road car, the SF90 XX is unparalleled in terms of speed and performance.