INTERIOR AND PERSONALISATION

The F430's interior has been re-designed for improved driver ergonomics. The instruments are housed in a new binnacle, and this design together with the layout of the dashboard underlines the care that has gone into grouping all the major controls in front of the driver within easy reach.

In the driver's direct line of sight are the rev counter (which features new graphics with a choice of either a red or yellow background and a new metal surround), the digital readout of the gear ratio selected (F1 version) and a multi-function display. The same uncompromising approach to driver control was the inspiration behind mounting the starter button and manettino on the steering wheel.

The wheel itself is new with the upper rim flattened to improve visibility in the straight-ahead position, and the horn pushes are integrated into the inner rim where they can be easily pushed. The interior reflects the advanced technology and materials employed in the car's construction, and can be personalised with carbon-fibre or aluminium inserts.

The cockpit is noticeably bigger and the already excellent passenger comfort is subsequently increased thanks to a slimmer central tunnel which houses the gear lever turret on the manual version and the F1 console on the paddle-shift version.

There is plenty of space behind the rear seats, with a new electrically operated compartment for oddments storage and catch netting to the rear firewall.

The seats have been redesigned for greater lateral containment and the standard electric seats can be substituted by more sporting items with four-point harnesses to order (depending on markets).