Spy shots of Ferrari SF90 Stradale "Version Speciale": hardcore special car spotted.

Ferrari engineers were spotted testing what appeared to be a hardcore version of the SF90 Stradale.

Such hardcore models, often called version speciale, Italian for "special version," usually appear at the end of a model run, the last being the 2021 812 Competizione, reserved for the 812 Superfast.

The SF90 Stradale has been available since 2019, and given that the typical life cycle of a Ferrari model is five years before it receives a major update or redesign, a special version will be available in late 2023.

The hardcore SF90 Stradale tester is only lightly camouflaged, suggesting that it is still in the early stages of development. However, there are some changes, including a makeshift cover over the front hood that appears to conceal new air ducts and an improved front mask with an extended splitter.

The chassis has also been tweaked and is expected to power a plug-in hybrid powertrain; the SF90 Stradale's powertrain consists of a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, and three electric motors (two front, one rear The car is powered by three electric motors (two in the front and one in the rear). This setup is similar to that found in the Acura NSX, Porsche 918 Spyder, and the recently unveiled Mercedes-Benz AMG One, which delivers a total of 986 hp.

The open-top SF90 Spyder is also likely to receive the Version Speciale treatment. The hard-core convertible is expected to arrive six months to a year after the coupe, but could be launched at the same time. Ferrari will be busy in the days ahead. The Purosangue crossover will arrive later this year, and plans are underway to replace the 812 Superfast and La Ferrari. Both cars are scheduled to appear in 2024.