First launched in 2009, the Ferrari 458 has been a massive success for the Italian automaker, quickly becoming Ferrari’s flagship supercar. However, Ferrari have announced it’s time for a facelift and have promised an updated model for 2015, dubbed the 458M.

Car manufacturers have long been feeling the pressure from the government and environmental organisations to reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel economy. Supercar manufacturers like Ferrari have been hit the hardest with tighter regulations, due to their high performance engines, where environmental impact is low on the priority list. However, with growing demand from customers for tax dodging performance, Ferrari caved and decided to reconsider the original 458’s fuel guzzling 4.5 litre V8 engine.

There have been significant developments in turbocharged engines in recent years, and many manufacturers have switched to forced induction, improving both performance and economy. This has been seen in the highly popular Ford Ecoboost engines,which have received excellent reviews – striking a fine balance in performance and emissions.

The 458M – where the M stands for Ferrari’s performance brand, Maranello – will be Ferrari’s answer to these increasingly strict emissions regulations. Ferrari will be scrapping the famous naturally aspirated V8 engines, known and loved for their high revving performance and distinct Ferrari sound. However, Ferrari have promised that they will ensure that the new turbocharged V8 will retain the famous characteristics of the original as much as possible.

The new engine will be borrowed from Ferrari’s new California T model, utilising a slightly more compact 3.8 litre turbocharged V8. The version of this engine used in the California T already produces 550 bhp, however it’s expected that Ferrari will push the V8 further for the 458M, with estimated power figures upwards of 650 bhp! Turbocharged engines notoriously suffer from turbo-lag, causing a delay in power when you put your foot down. Ferrari have confirmed they are currently working on technologies to ensure that the new engine performs as smoothly as its naturally aspirated predecessor. However, Ferrari are said to be working on innovative technologies to make the engine, positioning the 458M as a firm competitor to McLaren’s new 650S.

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