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Ferrari California Handling Speciale package

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The Ferrari California is the entry point to the Prancing Horse's stable, but that doesn't make it a slouch. For added performance and handling, Ferrari is planning a new Handling Speciale package to debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month, to coincide with the introduction of the new 2013 model.

The 2013 California gets a power upgrade to 490 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque from the front-mounted 4.3-liter V-8, a rise of 30 horsepower and 26 pound-feet. The power comes from revised exhaust manifolds and ECU tuning.

The new model also sheds about 66 pounds from the California's 3,825-pound curb weight, and about 0.2 tenths of a second from its 0-60-mph dash. Add on the Handling Speciale package, and you'll have the sharpest California yet.

Aiming for a target of "dynamic, yet not overly extreme" performance, the Handling Speciale package reduces body roll with a faster magneto-rheological damper control system and stiffer springs. The steering ratio is quickened by 10 percent for smaller wheel inputs and sharper turn-in.

The full package will also include a range of colors and three-layer paint from the Ferrari Styling Centre, with two-tone finishes and modern takes on classic color schemes. We'll be live in Geneva for the show, so stick around for live photos and video from the show floor.