Ferrari F12berlinetta shows its curvaceous bod in Geneva

Last week's announcement of a new grand tourer by Ferrari had us excited, but the photos made the car look a bit odd.

Fortunately, the F12berlinetta debuted at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show as one of the most attractive models in the automaker's current lineup.

The F12 (for short) actually has a shorter wheelbase and a lower curb weight than the 599 that it replaces.

Then engine sits up front, but power and exhaust exit through the rear end of the vehicle.

The new F12berlinetta generates less drag and more downforce than the outgoing model.

To reduce drag, shutters on the brake cooling vents only open when the stoppers are running hot.

An interesting feature called the Aero Bridge uses sculpted elements on the hood to generate downforce by channeling airflow through these floating fender vents.

The air blowing out of the Aero Bridge also interacts with turbulent air coming off of the front wheels, further reducing drag.

Maybe it's me (or maybe it's the gaudy car show lights) but the F12 really looks better in red. Shown here in black, the vehicle's prints more like a large, dark blob.

At 125 mph, the F12 generates 271 pounds of downforce--significantly less than an F1 car. Then again, most passenger cars would be generating slight lift at such speeds.

Snakelike headlamps with LED daytime running lamps are stylistically similar to the forward lights on the Ferrari FF and 458 Italia models.

The F12's 8-speed transaxle gearbox is located at the back of the vehicle between the drive wheels.

Simple rear light clusters and quad exhaust tips round out the F12's attractive rear end. (heh)

The interior of the F12berlinetta shares its configuration, components, and materials with Ferrari's FF, albeit without the rear seats.

Most functions related to driving the F12 can be found right here on the rather busy steering wheel.