In 2015, Ferrari->ke252 replaces the already iconic 458 Italia->ke3479 with the 488 GTB. Although similar in size and design, the 488->ke5071 is a significant departure from its predecessor due to its turbocharged, 3.9-liter V-8, which replaced the award-winning, naturally aspirated 4.5-liter unit. With the standard coupe and roadster already in dealerships and with two race-spec versions on the race track, Ferrari is expected to launch more derivatives of its entry-level sports car, including a successor to the 458 Speciale. A new variant of the 488 GTB isn't expected to arrive sooner than 2017, but a test car that was recently spotted at the Fiorano track suggests that Maranello is already working on a beefed-up coupe.

The photos come via Zero2Turbo and show a 488 GTB that's slightly different than the standard model. Notable changes include a new, more aggressive splitter, revised front bumper center element and intakes, a reworked rear fascia with covered taillight vents, and a reshaped bumper with a larger diffuser. The sports car also rides on different wheels and features an Italian "tricolore" decal on its front hood and roof. Given the racier aero kit and the stripes, which we've seen on previous high-performance models such as the 458 Speciale and 360 Challenge Stradale, the Ferrari we're looking at could very well be the 488 GTB Scuderia.

We speculated on what this version could bring to the table back in 2015, when the standard 488 was launched. On top of the revised aero kit and the upgraded interior, we also expect it to receive an uprated 3.9-liter V-8 that could deliver as much as 700 horsepower, 40 horses more than the regular GTB. The extra oomph should enable it to hit 60 mph from a standing start in around 2.8 seconds and post amazing laps on both the Fiorano test track and the Nurburgring Nordschleife. But is this the sports car that will replace the 458 Speciale or just a bespoke one-off 488 for a wealthy customer?

Continue reading for the full story.

Why it matters

Given the extensive body modifications, we are positive that this is the upcoming 488 GTB Scuderia (or whatever name it will carry). Sure, Ferrari is known to build quite a few custom versions of existing models, but this version sports too many aero modifications to be just a one-off. Based on these spy shots, our rendering of the Scuderia isn't exactly accurate, but at least now we know what kind of body modifications the 488 GTB will receive in order to become faster and more track capable. With Maranello already testing the car, it's safe to assume that an official launch is likely to happen by the end of 2016.

Stick around for updates on this track-ready sports car.

Ferrari 488 GTB Scuderia

Read our full review of the Ferrari 488 GTB Scuderia here.