It's out! The first official photographs have been published of the Ferrari California, the latest addition to the new generation of Ferraris launched in 2004 with the 612 Scaglietti and added to more recently with the 430 Scuderia.

The Ferrari California joins the Prancing Horse's eight-cylinder family, flanking the flagship 612 Scaglietti in the prestige sporty Grand Tourer segment.

The new model will be available exclusively as a convertible with a folding hard top. Both chassis and bodywork are aluminium, in line with the rest of the current range. The California will be powered by a new V8 engine mounted for the first time in the marque's history in the mid-front position.

Apart from its folding hard top, the California's innovations include the original 2+ concept which guarantees exceptional versatility of use in the rear of the car. The 4300 cc V8 engine features direct fuel injection and a "flat" crankshaft. It generates 338kW at 7500rpm.

As per the traditional Ferrari transaxle layout, the engine, which allows the Ferrari California to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in less than 4.0 seconds, will be coupled to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

Along with a new multilink rear suspension system, the Ferrari is also equipped with the exclusive F1-Trac traction control system which made its debut on the 599 GTB Fiorano and has been further honed to suit the typical driving conditions expected for this new GT. Brembo brakes featuring carbon-ceramic material disks as standard guarantee superbly efficient braking.

In addition to sporting the marque's classic styling cues, the cabin features new accessories and equipment, such as the seats, steering wheel, instrument panel and infotainment system.

The Ferrari California will officially be unveiled to the public at the Paris International Car Show.