Earlier this year at the Geneva Auto Show, Ferrari unveiled the HGTE version of the 599 GTB, a more track oriented version of the Italian exotic car makers flagship. This of course means that anyone owning a regular 599 might a well be driving a 575 (the car's predecessor, for those not up to date on their Ferrari models); how embarrassing.
Normally Ferrari would just make you buy the new model, but now the company is offering the HGTE setup as a Ferrari Genuine Accessories package. The package includes almost all of the HGTE goodies, although so far it's only available in the U.K.
Models from 2008 or newer can be equipped with the complete Handling, Performance, Exhaust and Aesthetic kits at a price of £19,703 ($32,000). The Handling package includes a 10mm lower suspension with springs that are 17 percent stiffer up front and 15 percent stiffer in the rear, new settings for the magnetorheological shocks in the Sport and Race programs on the Manettino, larger anti-roll bars, lighter 3-piece forged aluminum wheels and stickier tires. The Exhaust and Performance packages are comprised of new mufflers and new ECU programming with better throttle response and faster shift times (just 85ms). As for the aesthetics, they include a new front grille with a special chrome treatment and a brushed finish for the Prancing Horse symbols.
Models from before 2008 can opt for just the Handling, Exhaust and Aesthetic kits at a price of £17,213 ($28,000), and the performance upgrades are also not available for vehicles with manual transmissions.
More:
Report: Ferrari 599 HGTE Package, Now Sold Separately on AutoGuide.com
