2009 Ferrari California

The Los Angeles show is the perfect venue for the North American coming out party for the 2009 Ferrari California, an all-new entry that represents a number of firsts for the Italian automaker.

The California is the first front-engine V-8 road car in the company's history. In addition, it has a fully retractable power hardtop, another first for Ferrari. Mechanically, the California also is the first to use direct gas injection and to have a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Its contemporary flowing body work carries some classic Ferrari cues, such as its eggcrate grille, hood-mounted scoop and front fender vents. Inside, the car features what Ferrari calls "2 plus" seating. Instead of traditional rear buckets, buyers can opt for lower rear seat cushions and a pair of seatbelts that offers temporary seating for additional passengers or child safety seats. Buyers also can opt to use the space as additional load area thanks to a pass-through to the trunk. The rear cargo area has 8.5 cu. ft. of load space when the top is down and 12 when the roof is in place.

The V-8 produces 453 bhp and is mated to a Getrag 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that can be operated either as a full automatic or sequentially shifted via steering column mounted paddles. A traditional 6-speed manual will be offered later in the model year.

The Ferrari California also features steering wheel mounted controls including an engine start button and the manettino — a switch that offers sport and comfort modes as well as a position that deactivates the stability control system. The comfort mode provides the softest suspension setting, while the sport mode tightens up the shocks, reduces the intervention of the stability control and adds more weight to the variable assist power steering.

The Ferrari California, with its front-engine layout and retractable hardtop, is more of a GT than an out-and-out sports car like the mid-engine F430. It bridges the gap between those models and the GT-oriented V-12s in Ferrari's lineup.