In 2023, The Young and the Restless star Christian LeBlanc faced a silent battle with multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer, while continuing to deliver powerful performances as Michael Baldwin. Despite the toll the illness took on him, including loss of vision and hair, Christian’s resilience mirrored his character’s journey, with Michael navigating emotional conflicts that reflect his own strength. Let’s watch the video to see how Christian’s real-life battle is shaping his storyline and inspiring fans.
The 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri: Maranello’s V12 Masterpiece Redefines Grand Touring – An Expert Review
For over 75 years, the very name Ferrari has conjured images of speed, passion, and unparalleled engineering artistry. At its core, the beating heart of many of these legends has been the glorious V12 engine. From Enzo Ferrari’s foundational 125 S in 1947, a car that carved the path for an entire automotive dynasty, to the latest and arguably greatest iteration, the 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri, this lineage of twelve cylinders has remained sacrosanct. As an automotive expert with a decade steeped in the nuances of exotic performance, I recently had the profound privilege of pushing this magnificent machine on American asphalt, and I can tell you, the spirit of Maranello is alive and roaring.
In an era increasingly dominated by electrification and downsized powertrains, the 12Cilindri stands as a defiant, magnificent ode to internal combustion. It’s not just a successor to the lauded 812 Superfast; it’s an evolution, a statement, and quite possibly, the ultimate naturally aspirated grand tourer destined for discerning collectors and driving purists. Launched globally in both Berlinetta (coupe) and Spider (convertible) forms, my extensive road test was conducted in the Berlinetta, the purist’s choice, which carries a starting MSRP for the US market likely north of $450,000, before factoring in Ferrari’s notoriously extensive and tempting customization options. This isn’t just a car; it’s an investment in automotive excellence and a living piece of history.
Design & Aesthetic Prowess: Sculpted for Speed, Drenched in Heritage
From the moment you lay eyes on the 12Cilindri, its presence is undeniable. It’s a design that effortlessly marries classic Ferrari cues with breathtaking modern aerodynamics, creating an aesthetic that truly grows on you, revealing more intricate details with every glance. This isn’t a radical departure, but rather a masterful evolution, reminiscent of the timeless elegance that has defined Maranello’s grand tourers for decades.
The car’s profile is dominated by a sensationally long, sculpted hood, hinged at the front – a nod to classic sports car design that exposes the mechanical theatre beneath in a singularly dramatic fashion. The way the 21-inch alloy wheels, often adorned with custom-colored calipers, are framed by the wheel arches, exudes both power and grace. Upfront, the blade-like DRLs cut a distinctive signature, flanking seven thoughtfully integrated air intakes. These aren’t mere stylistic flourishes; they are meticulously designed elements contributing to the car’s exceptional aerodynamic efficiency, a testament to Ferrari’s engineering philosophy.
Perhaps the most striking visual homage is the black ‘visor’ element that stretches across the front, reminiscent of the iconic 1968 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona. This distinctive feature, regardless of the body color, anchors the car’s aggressive yet sophisticated face, imparting a sense of historical gravitas while maintaining a thoroughly contemporary appeal. Moving rearward, the frameless doors open to reveal an interior brimming with intent. The rear fascia is equally purposeful, dominated by an oversized diffuser and the signature dual twin tailpipes, a sonorous promise of the V12 power within. Despite its substantial dimensions – approximately 185 inches (4.7 meters) long and 86.6 inches (2.2 meters) wide – the 12Cilindri manages to look lithe and athletic, a triumph of proportion and visual balance. Its broad, planted stance hints at its formidable on-road capabilities, ensuring it commands attention wherever it rolls. This is more than just a luxury coupe; it’s a piece of kinetic art.
Cabin & Connectivity: An Expert’s View on the Driver’s Sanctuary
Stepping into the 12Cilindri’s cabin is an experience in itself, a deliberate transition from the external world to a dedicated performance sanctuary. My test vehicle featured the optional carbon fiber sport seats, which, while undoubtedly contributing to the car’s aggressive, lightweight persona, might be a point of consideration for a true grand tourer. For long-haul American road trips – the kind a luxury grand tourer is truly built for – the standard comfort seats, perhaps upholstered in supple Poltrona Frau leather, might prove to be the more judicious choice, balancing exquisite luxury with ergonomic support.
Ferrari has embraced a compelling “dual cockpit” design, a philosophy shared with its Purosangue and Roma siblings. This translates to an almost entirely separate zone for the passenger, complete with their own dedicated screen. This isn’t just a novelty; it’s a brilliantly immersive feature that displays vital information like the tachometer and real-time G-force readings, truly integrating the passenger into the high-performance driving experience. It’s a subtle yet powerful psychological touch that elevates shared journeys.
The driver’s interface, as expected from Ferrari, is a masterclass in focused ergonomics. The steering wheel, a hub of control, is densely packed with essential buttons and the iconic Manettino dial, allowing seamless access to various drive modes. Positioned low and optimally for visibility, the 10.25-inch central touchscreen handles infotainment duties. It’s a responsive unit, offering seamless integration with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing a wealth of information without overwhelming the driver. While some traditionalists might miss an abundance of physical buttons on the dash, Ferrari’s minimalist approach feels thoroughly modern and keeps the focus firmly on the road ahead. Complementing this is a massive 15-inch digital instrument cluster, a first for a Ferrari GT, offering crystal-clear, customizable displays of driving data. Practical modern amenities like a wireless charging pad are thoughtfully integrated.
No supercar cabin is complete without a sound system, and the 12Cilindri boasts a powerful 15-speaker, 1600-watt Burmester audio system. While it delivers exceptional audio fidelity, let’s be honest: in a naturally aspirated V12 Ferrari, the primary soundtrack comes from the engine bay and exhaust tips. However, for those moments when you’re cruising, perhaps on a longer highway stretch, the Burmester system transforms the cabin into a premium concert hall. As a strict two-seater, the 12Cilindri prioritizes performance and driver engagement. While the 9.5 cubic feet (270 liters) of trunk space is acceptable for a supercar, for a vehicle aspiring to be the ultimate luxury grand tourer, a slightly larger cargo capacity would certainly enhance its touring credentials. Nonetheless, the overall impression is one of bespoke craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and an unwavering focus on the ultimate driving experience.
Driving Dynamics: The Unfiltered Symphony of the V12
This is where the Ferrari 12Cilindri truly asserts its dominance and carves its legend. At its core lies the formidable 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, a masterpiece of automotive engineering that delivers a staggering 820 horsepower and approximately 500 lb-ft of torque. In an automotive landscape rapidly shifting towards forced induction and hybridization, this engine is a defiant celebration of raw, unadulterated power delivery. It’s a visceral experience that simply cannot be replicated by any other powertrain.
The performance figures are breathtaking: 0-60 mph flashes by in a blistering 2.8 seconds, while 0-124 mph takes less than 8 seconds. The top speed is a remarkable 211 mph (340 km/h). On a long stretch of open road, the initial surge of acceleration pins you firmly into the seat, a relentless, linear pull that only a naturally aspirated V12 can provide. This is pure, undiluted speed, delivered with an intensity that excites and demands respect.
And then there’s the sound. Despite global regulations on noise emissions – the car is engineered to meet a 72 dB limit – the 12Cilindri’s exhaust note is nothing short of a symphonic masterpiece. It’s refined, yes, perhaps a decibel or two softer than its predecessors, but it retains that quintessential Ferrari V12 howl that raises the hairs on your arms. It’s an aural signature that connoisseurs cherish, a potent reminder of the mechanical artistry at play. That Ferrari continues to produce such magnificent 12-cylinder engines amidst tightening global environmental mandates is a testament to their engineering prowess and unwavering commitment to their heritage.
The engine is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox that is, without hyperbole, one of the fastest and most responsive transmissions I’ve ever sampled. Shifts are instantaneous, almost imperceptible, creating a seamless surge of power that feels utterly relentless. There’s no pause, no hesitation; the car simply devours gears. Ferrari has implemented a truly ingenious piece of software-driven throttle mapping: for the first time in a 12-cylinder Ferrari, the drivetrain doesn’t hit peak torque aggressively early. Instead, especially in third and fourth gear, the torque curve flattens out, saving the full surge of performance for higher up the rev range, culminating in a stratospheric 9,500 rpm redline. This progressive power delivery is designed to maximize driver engagement, encouraging you to explore the engine’s entire, glorious rev spectrum.
The steering feel is sublime – direct, communicative, and perfectly weighted. The Manettino dial on the steering wheel allows for quick adjustments to various drive modes, each transforming the car’s character, from a relatively compliant GT to an apex-hunting missile. Despite its grand tourer aspirations, the 12Cilindri is surprisingly agile, a feat aided by a 20mm shorter wheelbase compared to the 812 Superfast. This makes it a joy to pilot through winding roads, allowing for playful, confident maneuvers. An active rear spoiler deploys at speeds above 30 mph (50 km/h), meticulously managing airflow to enhance downforce and stability, an integral part of its advanced aerodynamics.
Ferrari’s innovation extends to the rear-wheel steering system. Unlike traditional all-wheel steering where both rear wheels turn in sync, the 12Cilindri features an independent rear-wheel steering setup. When turning right, only the left rear wheel counter-steers, while the right wheel remains straight, anticipating the next turn. This unique algorithm significantly enhances agility, stability during high-speed lane changes, and precision through fast curves. It’s a complex system that translates to an incredibly intuitive and confidence-inspiring driving experience. Complementing this, for practical urban navigation, the useful nose-lift function raises the front axle at the touch of a button, allowing the car to clear speed bumps and steep driveways – a small but critical feature for supercar ownership in the real world.
Safety & The Modern Grand Tourer: Intelligent Reassurance
Even in the rarefied air of exotic sports cars, the march of progress dictates the integration of advanced safety and driver-assistance systems. The 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri embraces this, offering a suite of ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) features that include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and a 360-degree view camera system.
As an expert, the inclusion of such systems in a performance-focused vehicle like the 12Cilindri presents an interesting paradox. A supercar of this caliber is meant to be driven, engaged with, and felt. Allowing it to adapt to the speed of a slower vehicle ahead, while beneficial for highway cruising, might seem counterintuitive to its core purpose. However, Ferrari has calibrated these systems with a light touch. They are designed to provide a layer of reassurance and safety without being overly intrusive or diminishing the primary driving experience. The 360-degree camera, in particular, is an invaluable aid for parking and maneuvering a car of this size and value, especially in tight urban environments. The ADAS features here are guardians, not dictators, subtly enhancing safety without diluting the visceral thrill of driving a Ferrari.
The Verdict: A V12 Legacy Secured, An Automotive Investment
The 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri isn’t merely a new model; it’s a statement, a masterclass in automotive engineering, and quite possibly the pinnacle of naturally aspirated V12 grand touring for the modern age. In a world increasingly looking towards a future of electrification, this car is a glorious, defiant roar from the past, present, and immediate future.
Its strengths are undeniable: a breathtaking, naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine that delivers an unparalleled symphony of power and sound; a lightning-fast 8-speed dual-clutch transmission; a chassis that blends incredible agility with surprising ride comfort; and a design that is both historically resonant and undeniably futuristic. The cabin, a fusion of luxurious materials and cutting-edge technology, ensures every journey is an occasion. While the trunk space might be modest for a true grand tourer, and the sport seats a matter of personal preference for long drives, these are minor considerations in the face of such comprehensive excellence.
For the discerning buyer in the US market, seeking not just a supercar, but an automotive investment, a piece of Maranello history, and an unfiltered driving experience, the 12Cilindri stands alone. It represents the ultimate expression of traditional Ferrari values, perfectly adapted for the demands and expectations of 2025. This isn’t just the replacement for the 812 Superfast; it’s a benchmark for what a V12 luxury grand tourer should be.
Experience the Unforgettable.
Ready to discover the unparalleled blend of heritage, performance, and luxury that defines the 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri? Connect with your authorized Ferrari specialist today to explore the bespoke customization options and begin your journey with Maranello’s latest V12 masterpiece. The future of grand touring awaits.