Although no official details or pictures of the new 458 Italia's interior have been released, a video found on www.ferrari.com reveals how the classy new cockpit will look. Above is a screenshot taken from that video.

Present and correct are the prominent 'Engine Start' button and the Manettino switch to allow customisation of the various driver aids. However, Ferrari has eradicated column stalks, instead fitting far more appealing looking buttons to the steering wheel for indicators, wipers and headlight control. Even without touching them they appear more tactile than the stalks on the outgoing F430.

The dashboard is quite compact in its design and very much focused on the driver, with a symmetrical design reminiscent of the Honda S2000's layout, though more modern in shape and use of materials. Within the instrument cluster, a large rev counter takes centre-stage as ever, while a detailed onboard computer read-out to the left allows the driver to monitor various aspects of the Italia.

Officially we won't receive any further information until the 458 Italia is revealed on September 15th at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Shane O' Donoghue - 31 Jul 2009