These brand new photos show off the stunning new Ferrari California in the best detail yet.

For the first time we get to see the shock new Ferrari California with its electric hardtop roof up and down – a transition which Ferrari claims to take just 14 seconds.

View the latest pictures of the Ferrari California

The Ferrari California was announced ahead of schedule in a surprise move by Ferrari and is its first all-new car since the launch of the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano in 2006.

The front engined two-seater is powered by a new 4.3-litre V8 engine producing 450bhp. It should accelerate the ‘Prancing Horse’ from 0-62mph (100km/h) in less than four seconds before reaching more than 190mph.

Another first for Ferrari is its seven-speed dual clutch gearbox, similar to Volkswagen’s DSG system.

On track, a press of the ‘launch control’ button when at a standstill allows the driver to perform perfect high-performance starts without wheel spin.

And, despite being a convertible the California has been designed to be aerodynamic and produce grip-enhancing downforce which is equal to 70kg at 85mph.

Despite its small size, the California should also prove practical for a supercar. Ferrari calls it a ‘2+’ seater, which means there is room behind the front seats for passengers on short journeys and for stowage.

View more pictures of the Ferrari California

The boot has a capacity of 360-litres with the roof up and 260-litres with it folded down.

The California is the most fuel efficient Ferrari on sale, but its carbon dioxide emissions of 310g/km means it still falls into the highest UK tax band level G with an annual cost of £400.

We are expecting the Ferrari California to cost around £140,000 and compete directly with the Aston Martin DB9 Volante, Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder and Alfa 8C Spider.