Updated: More details on new V8-powered Ferrari Roma

The Roma is powered by a revamped version of the turbocharged 3.9-litre V8 engine used in the Portofino and elsewhere in Ferrari's line-up, albeit using the eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox that was introduced on the SF90 Stradale. 

Further powertrain upgrades include reshaped camshafts and an engine speed sensor which is said to allow maximum revs to be increased by 5000rpm. A new Euro-6d-compliant petrol particulate filter has been fitted, but Ferrari guarantees that it will "not compromise driving pleasure".

In the Roma, the unit delivers 612bhp at 5750-7500rpm and 591lb ft of torque at 3000-5750rpm, up from 592bhp and 561lb ft in the Portofino. The version of this powerplant used in the F8 Tributo produces 710bhp. Ferrari claims a 0-62mph time of 3.4sec for the Roma and a top speed of more than 199mph. 

Ferrari also says it has completely redesigned the exhaust system to incorporate petrol particulate filter technology, ensure that the Roma meets the latest emissions requirements and enhance its sound.

Notably, the Roma has a dry weight of just 1472kg with lightweight options fitted – around 80kg less than the Portofino's dry weight. The gearbox alone weighs 6kg less than the seven-speed unit in the Portofino and is claimed to offer reduced fuel consumption, faster shifts and enhanced comfort in urban driving situations. With the Roma's kerb weight of 1570kg, Ferrari claims a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio. 

As well as the active rear wing, the Roma features the latest version of Ferrari's vehicle dynamic systems, including the first application of its latest Side Slip Control. There are five driving modes and a Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer function that can control the yaw angle of the car by hydraulically adjusting the brake pressure. 

The Roma measures 4656mm long and 1974mm wide, making it marginally shorter and narrower than the Portofino, while both models feature a wheelbase of 2670mm. 

Inside, the car features two separate 'cells' for driver and passenger, with space for a small rear seat or storage behind each. The driver is separated from the front passenger by a central divider, in what Ferrari calls "an evolution of the dual-cockpit concept that embraces the entire cabin rather than just the dashboard, as was previously the case". The steering wheel is an all-new design that hosts all the main driver settings to ensure constant focus on the road ahead. 

The traditional analogue speed and rev counter dials have been replaced by a 16in curved screen mounted behind the wheel, while a centrally mounted, portrait-orientated 8.4in unit displays infotainment functions. There's also a separate touchscreen for the passenger.

The Roma's boot capacity of 345 litres is roughly equal to that of the AMG GT and Vantage.

According to Ferrari, the Roma was named after the Italian capital – where it was revealed at a launch event – because it “is a contemporary representation of the carefree, pleasurable way of life that characterised Rome in the 1950s and 1960s.” That implies that the machine will focus more on everyday usability and relaxed driving than being intended as a long-distance grand tourer.

The decision to introduce a new nameplate, rather than just producing a hard-top version of the Portofino, has likely been taken to target the car at a new audience. By turning the car into a 2+ coupé, it can likely broaden its offering at the entry level of its range.