Ferrari SF90 2021 Review

In the supercar market, hybrid technology is gradually becoming the new standard for performance benchmarks—retaining the sharp power response of a combustion engine while achieving instant torque supplementation through the electric motor. The 2021 Ferrari SF90 Spider is a representative of this trend. As Ferrari's first plug-in hybrid convertible supercar, it not only inherits the track-oriented genes of the SF90 Stradale but also adds an immersive driving experience brought by its convertible design. This review will comprehensively analyze whether this hybrid supercar, priced at 2.08 million ringgit, is worth the attention of high-end enthusiasts from the perspectives of static design, dynamic performance, and daily practicality.

From an exterior design standpoint, the SF90 Spider's lines extend the aggressiveness of the hardtop version—its front features a large trapezoidal grille, flanked by air ducts that optimize aerodynamics while emphasizing visual width. The side waistline runs from the front fender to the taillights, paired with 20-inch multi-spoke wheels (front 255/35 R20, rear 315/30 R20), giving it a low-profile and tension-filled stance. At the rear, design highlights include continuous LED taillights and a diffuser, complemented by a quad-exit exhaust layout that exudes a strong racing vibe. The convertible structure adopts a hardtop design, which can be opened or closed within 14 seconds, with the roof folding into the upper rear trunk without affecting its 74-liter storage capacity. Regarding the lighting system, the front headlights utilize matrix LED sources, offering high recognizability when illuminated, while the taillights are integrated with the body lines, presenting a clean and sharp visual effect at night.

Inside, the SF90 Spider’s interior focuses on the driver, with an overall style leaning towards a racing atmosphere. The dashboard adopts a multi-layered design, with the upper layer featuring a 16-inch fully digital instrument panel that concentrates all driving information (such as RPM, speed, and hybrid mode). Touch buttons on both sides of the steering wheel allow direct adjustment of driving modes and chassis settings with clear operational logic. In terms of materials, the seats and inner door panels are covered with Alcantara, and carbon-fiber trim is used on the dashboard, reducing weight while enhancing luxury. Key configurations include standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the central display embedded to the right of the instrument panel in a touch-control area. Although the screen is not large, it responds smoothly. The seats are bucket-style sports seats with excellent lumbar and thigh support. The seatback angle and seat cushion position can be manually adjusted, but the tight fit may feel slightly constrictive for larger passengers during extended periods of sitting.

In terms of space, as a two-seater supercar, the SF90 Spider's seating space is completely dedicated to the front row. A passenger with a height of 180 cm can sit inside with about two finger-widths of headroom when the convertible top is closed, and legroom is relatively free thanks to the 2650 mm wheelbase. Storage capacity is somewhat limited: the door panels can only hold small items like phones and wallets, and the center armrest box is compact. Storage mainly relies on the 74-liter trunk space for small luggage like carry-on suitcases. Comfort features inside include dual-zone automatic climate control for the front and rear (with seat ventilation) and heated steering, but due to its model positioning, there are no rear seats or additional expanded storage options.

Dynamic performance is the core advantage of the SF90 Spider. The powertrain consists of a 4.0T V8 twin-turbo engine and three electric motors (two at the front axle and one at the rear axle), with a combined maximum power of 1000 horsepower (engine 780PS + electric motor 220PS) and a peak torque of 900N·m, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. Officially, it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 2.5 seconds, with a top speed of 340km/h. In actual driving, switching to "Qualify" mode allows both the electric motors and the engine to work simultaneously, providing an almost dizzying thrust at launch. During acceleration, there is no power attenuation, and overtaking in the 100-200km/h range can be completed in just a few seconds. Even in "Hybrid" mode, the electric motors prioritize low-speed intervention, providing a smooth and quiet start. When the accelerator is pressed deeply, the internal combustion engine seamlessly takes over with nearly no delay.

In terms of handling, the SF90 Spider's steering is highly precise with almost no slack. The steering feel is slightly heavy at low speeds, but it becomes solid and stable at higher speeds, providing clear feedback from the road. The suspension system uses electromagnetic dampers, which filter out most minor bumps in "Comfort" mode, handling speed bumps on city roads without being overly stiff. When switched to "Sport" or "Track" mode, the suspension stiffness noticeably increases, offering excellent body roll control during cornering. Coupled with the all-wheel-drive system, power distribution remains balanced even during acceleration on slippery roads, avoiding issues like slipping. The braking performance is equally outstanding, with carbon-ceramic brake discs delivering strong and linear stopping power, bringing the car to a halt from 100-0km/h in just about 30 meters. Additionally, there is no significant brake fade even with continuous use.

Regarding the practicality of the hybrid system, the battery capacity is 7.9kWh, with an official all-electric range of 25km. For daily short-distance commuting (e.g., urban driving), switching to "eDrive" mode allows the vehicle to rely solely on electric motors, achieving a top speed of 135km/h and an energy consumption of approximately 25kWh/100km. In terms of combined fuel consumption, driving in hybrid mode (50% city and 50% highway) results in a real-world fuel consumption of approximately 8.5L/100km, about 30% lower compared to similar petrol-only supercars. In terms of comfort, with the roof closed, the cabin sound insulation exceeds expectations—at a high speed of 120km/h, both wind and tire noise remain within acceptable levels. When the roof is open, the wind deflector can be raised to reduce turbulence, and even at speeds exceeding 100km/h, conversations inside the car don’t require raising one’s voice. The seats provide sufficient support during intense driving while remaining comfortable for daily commutes and are not overly firm, making long drives (around 2 hours) less tiring.

In summary, the core advantages of the 2021 Ferrari SF90 Spider can be summarized in three points: first, the "dual-character" power offered by the hybrid system—featuring a silent and smooth all-electric mode, alongside track-ready explosive acceleration. Second, the balance between the convertible design and performance—the hardtop convertible does not compromise the body’s rigidity, with a quick open/close mechanism and great practicality. Third, Ferrari’s racing heritage—with all-wheel drive, electromagnetic suspension, and precise steering, ensuring high-level handling experiences. Compared to rivals in the same class (such as the McLaren Artura Spider), the SF90 Spider has an edge in terms of power specifications and brand premium. However, its price of 2.08 million MYR is also about 200,000 MYR higher than the latter.

From the perspective of applicable scenarios, the SF90 Spider caters to two types of people: first, supercar collectors pursuing ultimate performance, as its hybrid technology and convertible design make it a unique presence in Ferrari's product line; second, high-end enthusiasts who enjoy the driving pleasure on weekends. Its pure electric mode can handle short urban trips, while its track mode fulfills the needs of track days. However, it should be noted that the 74-liter trunk space and two-seat layout determine that it cannot serve as the sole vehicle for daily commuting.

Overall, the 2021 Ferrari SF90 Spider is not a "compromised" supercar—it maintains track performance while expanding its usability through hybrid technology and a convertible design. It is a high-end toy that balances passion and practicality. For consumers who can afford its price, it is not just a supercar but also an iconic model in Ferrari's hybrid era.