Jay Leno Takes Ferrari's Purosangue for a Spin – Will He Buy One?

First Impressions from a Ferrari Critic

Despite his checkered history with Ferrari dealerships, Jay Leno's recent video on Jay Leno's Garage reveals that he holds a fascination for the brand's craftsmanship, particularly on the new Purosangue. While Leno has previously likened Ferrari dealers to dominatrixes, he has plenty of compliments for their super-SUV. So, could this new model tempt him into finally owning a Ferrari, or does he remain steadfast in his stance?

An Engineering Marvel

The Purosangue featured in the video belongs to California-based Ferrari collector David Lee, a familiar face on Leno's YouTube channel. Leno dives into the engineering marvels of Ferrari's first SUV, noting the minute tolerances between brake calipers and wheels and the spacious rear legroom. Even minor details, like the forward-opening clamshell hood that reveals a front-mid mounted 6.5-liter V-12 engine, don't escape his keen eye.

Performance That Dazzles

If you've been living under a rock, let’s refresh your memory: this naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V-12 churns out an astonishing 715 horsepower at 7,750 rpm. The 528 pound-feet of peak torque arrives at 6,250 rpm, confirming that this SUV is out of this world. With a top speed of 190 mph, the Purosangue stands tall among people movers, but the defining feature might just be its V-12 symphony. It's one of the few SUVs that offer such a sensory experience.

Driving Dynamics

And what about the test drive? Leno is clearly smitten. He frequently dips into the throttle, appreciating its Ferrari-esque roar and remarkable steering. Meanwhile, David Lee points out some of the $150,000 worth of optional extras on this particular Purosangue. Just to put it in perspective, that's nearly the price of a new Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Coupe, another powerhouse in the SUV market. Yet, the Ferrari, with its sleek exclusivity and V-12 engine, still manages to set itself apart.

Leno's Reservations

However, it's not all roses and Ferraris for Leno. His grievances lie not with the cars but with Ferrari's customer relations. Throughout the video, Leno hints that his displeasure with the company is more about their treatment of clients rather than the vehicles themselves. And it looks like those feelings are strong enough to keep a Purosangue out of his eclectic collection. Leno admits that, apart from an old first-generation Ford Bronco, he doesn't own any SUVs. So it seems unlikely this super-SUV will find a new home in his garage anytime soon.