Ferrari’s showroom in Jakarta was packed with VIPs and sports car fans earlier this month, when the 488 GTB was launched to an appreciative crowd. It was a particularly exciting launch because the minimalist TB Simatupang showroom is also new, as CEO of MRA Group Soetikno Soedarjo explains: ““Being able to strengthen Ferrari’s existence in Indonesia by opening a new showroom in one of Jakarta’s strategic areas is a remarkable achievement for Ferrari Jakarta. It is an honor for us to host such a prestigious event as part of our house-warming procession.”
The unveiling of the 488 GTB was a suitably momentous event. Accompanied by a fashion show from a young Indonesian designer, as well as vocals from award winning singer Andien Aisyah, the stunning metallic grey car was driven in to huge applause.
They had good reason to applaud: this is a fitting homage to the Ferrari 308, the mid-rear-engined V8 car that became an icon after its first release 40 years ago. Although the 488 GTB is now turbo charged, its power and grace make it a worthy successor to both this and the Ferrari 458. It’s also blisteringly fast, as its 661BHP engine can power it from 0 to 62MPH in just 3 seconds. Despite all that oomph, it also features superb handling and a brilliantly calibrated weight distribution that make it a true pleasure to drive.
To express gratitude for the success of the event, Ferrari Jakarta donated all the proceeds from their auction to a local charity for underprivileged children, suggesting that this new Jakarta showroom will contribute to the happiness of local people in more ways than one.