Car Statistics: Ferrari - 458 Italia Series 09 (5 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

It will split opinion, but at least the 458 looks like a fresh chapter compared to the similar-looking 360M and F430. As usual, Ferrari has avoided overt spoilers and wings, preferring instead to work aerodynamic aids into the overall body shape.

Handling (5 stars)

Above all else, what is so impressive about the 458 is that it offers something for everyone. Partly through the clever electronics, partly because the chassis delivers precision and grip, but also in its feel and confidence, it will reward a professional on the track as much a novice out for a Sunday blast.

Comfort (4 stars)

It's a 200mph supercar, so obviously it's not going to offer S-Class levels of comfort. But as supercars go, the 458 is impressively cosseting: the seats are comfortable, the ride isn't too harsh and you could (should you feel like it) drive it to the south of France.

Quality (4 stars)

There's the beautifully finished leather you expect in a Ferrari and it's nicely finished, but the logically placed switches are more of a surprise. The mandatory twin-clutch gearbox should also reduce the possibility of driver-induced damage to engine and transmission. Electronics, a Ferrari weak point, are an unknown.

Performance (5 stars)

Epic. As impressive as the sheer outright level of performance is the accessibility. With flexibility, the engine will deliver real punch from anywhere beyond 3,000rpm, but if you want to keep the engine spinning near the 9,000rpm redline, seven forward speeds and near-instant shifts make it incredibly easy.

Roominess (4 stars)

It only seats two, but there's enough luggage space under the bonnet and behind the seats for several squashy bags. Pack lightly and there's enough room for a week of touring. The cabin caters for drivers of all sizes with decent ergonomics.

Costs (3 stars)

Clearly the 458 Italia is not a car for those watching the pennies. But with direct fuel injection, a tall seventh gear and all sorts of clever engineering designed to make the engine more fuel-efficient when its not being asked to produce 562bhp, a combined economy of 21.2mpg isn't too bad for a supercar.

Value

Stereo (4 stars)

Both the stereo and sat nav are displayed through one of two TFT screens placed either side of the rev counter. On the plus side, the screen is close the driver's line of sight, but it is on the small side. The stereo has good sound quality and a hard drive to store music files.