It seems the success of the Ferrari FF, the production of which for this year has already been sold out, will affect the 599 GTB Fiorano as well. But in a good way, since it is being reported that Ferrari has cancelled the original plans for a 599 facelift and instead build an all-new car as a replacement. The plan was revealed by Motor Trend magazine, which noted that the new car will be derived from the FF featuring a mightier punch in the performance division. Ferrari plans to launch the new car in late 2012.

The car's naturally aspirated V12 engine will reportedly develop around 700 horsepower and will be based on the FF's 6.3-liter unit, using direct injection in order to be more fuel-efficient than the current 599. Aside from the power increase of around 80 horsepower, the 599's successor will be also lighter, due to the use of an aluminum frame made up of 20 different alloys.

It seems Ferrari will stick with aluminum, although Lamborghini and McLaren have switched to carbon fiber. The magazine quotes Ferrari technical director Roberto Fedeli who admits the car will use some composite panels as well.

The new 599 will make use of a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a multi-link rear axle as is the case with the California, 458 and FF. The car will also benefit from the fitting of an electronic differential on the rear-axle, which will allow for greater handling flexibility according to the Manettino's position.

In tune with its performance-oriented character, the 599 replacement will not have all-wheel-drive like the FF. However, AWD could be offered as an option on the California in 2013.

By Dan Mihalascu