Ferrari 296 GTB 2025: The Electrifying Evolution That Sets the Supercar Standard
For a decade, I’ve been immersed in the exhilarating world of automotive engineering and performance, witnessing firsth
and the seismic shifts that define an era. Few marques embody this evolution quite like Ferrari, and the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a testament to their relentless pursuit of innovation. It’s more than just a car; it’s a meticulously crafted statement, a digital symphony played on a foundation of raw, unadulterated horsepower. As a seasoned observer and participant in this industry, the arrival of the 296 GTB, even a few years into its tenure, continues to captivate and redefine expectations.
The supercar landscape has undergone a radical metamorphosis, a transition away from the purely visceral to a sophisticated blend of combustion and electrification. Ferrari, with its storied history of performance, has been at the forefront of this revolution. The 2022 introduction of the 296 GTB marked a pivotal moment, signaling a departure from their celebrated twin-turbo V8 lineage in favor of a groundbreaking twin-turbo V6, augmented by an electric powertrain. This wasn’t merely an update; it was a redefinition of the mid-engined supercar, seizing the initiative in a segment where hybrid integration is rapidly becoming the benchmark.
In its nascent stages, the 296 GTB entered a fiercely competitive arena. Its contemporary rival, the Lamborghini Huracán, offered the soul-stirring allure of a naturally aspirated V10. While lacking the outright horsepower of its electrified counterpart, the Huracán provided an unparalleled auditory experience and an unvarnished connection to the road. Competing fiercely was also the McLaren 720S, a masterclass in twin-turbo V8 performance and aerodynamic prowess. Now, with the horizon lit by the imminent arrival of the 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Lamborghini Temerario, the stakes have been dramatically raised. This new hybrid behemoth from Sant’Agata Bolognese represents a direct challenge, a bold statement of intent aimed squarely at Maranello’s 819bhp electrified Berlinetta.
Indeed, the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB is armed with formidable firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, coupled with an integrated electric motor, drives only the rear wheels – a deliberate choice, distinguishing it from the all-wheel-drive SF90. The result is a staggering 819bhp, a figure that shattered supercar conventions upon its debut. This is a car that doesn’t just push boundaries; it obliterates them, forcing rivals like the Lamborghini Temerario price to contend with a new paradigm of performance.
The sheer magnitude of these power figures naturally prompts contemplation: where does this relentless escalation of horsepower ultimately lead? And more importantly, where can such exhilarating performance be truly unleashed? These are questions that tantalize the enthusiast, sparking debate and fueling dreams of track days and open roads. But for now, our focus remains on the extraordinary capabilities of the 296 GTB itself.
This remarkable machine represents several firsts for Ferrari. It’s the first road-going Ferrari to feature a V6 engine – a lineage tracing back to the iconic, albeit non-prancing horse badged, 246 GT Dino. It also pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, an engineering marvel that optimizes packaging and performance. Furthermore, as a plug-in hybrid, it offers a silent, emissions-free EV-only range of approximately 15 miles, a crucial element in the evolving regulatory landscape and a nod to sustainable supercar aspirations. This compact V6, mounted low within a novel aluminum chassis, contributes to a wheelbase that is 50mm shorter than its V8 predecessors, while positioning the occupants slightly further forward for an even more immersive driving experience.
The electric motor alone contributes an impressive 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. The V6, in isolation, churns out a prodigious 654bhp and 546lb ft. When these two powerhouses unite, the combined output reaches the headline figure of 819bhp. Ferrari wisely refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. Nevertheless, it’s safe to assume that the resultant torque is nothing short of colossal, a force that underpins the car’s exhilarating acceleration. The V6 engine itself is approximately 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 units and is mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The compact battery pack, a long, slender unit, is cleverly housed behind the seats, minimizing its impact on weight distribution and cabin space.
No Ferrari would be complete without an array of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems. For the 296 GTB, Maranello has developed the six-axis sensor known as 6w-CDS (Six-Way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, providing an unparalleled understanding of the car’s dynamic behavior. Replacing conventional yaw sensors, and working in concert with a sensor on the steering rack, the 6w-CDS allows the car to precisely interpret driver inputs and assess real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data is then fed to systems such as Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, working in unison to maximize cornering speed while preserving unwavering stability and driver confidence. It also enables the revolutionary ABS-evo system, activated in RACE mode and above. This innovative braking technology, integrated with the 296’s brake-by-wire system, not only shortens braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, allowing for incredible precision into corners.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics technology not to reduce drag, but to actively generate downforce. The firm quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with approximately 100kg of this generated by a deployable rear wing that emerges from the car’s sculpted rear. This active aerodynamic package is a critical component in the 296 GTB’s exceptional handling and stability at high speeds.
Cooling is a complex, multi-faceted challenge in a high-performance hybrid supercar. The 296 GTB features two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers dedicated to managing the battery’s thermal load. Hot air is strategically expelled underneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the flow of cool air directed into the intercoolers flanking the vehicle. Small apertures located beneath the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, a vital function during spirited driving. The aerodynamically integrated wing at the base of the roofline serves a dual purpose: it aids in creating a ‘virtual’ rear screen, which effectively channels air towards the rear of the car, enhancing the effectiveness of the rear diffuser and downforce-generating surfaces.
The majority of the 296 GTB’s prodigious downforce is generated from beneath the car. Significant engineering effort has been invested in optimizing the underbody airflow, paying meticulous attention not only to the channelization of air and the design of the rear diffuser but also to the crucial ground clearance. This precise control over the underbody aerodynamics maximizes the effectiveness of the downforce-generating surfaces, contributing to the car’s planted and stable feel.
Our initial experience with the 296 GTB involved circuits equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-enhancing upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from GT racing technology. It also incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements on the front, further increasing downforce by 20kg. The Assetto Fiorano package also introduces further carbon fiber applications within the cabin, such as the door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to a significant overall weight saving of 12kg. This saving can be extended to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For the ultimate in grip, the Fiorano package offers the option of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a step up from the already highly capable standard Pilot Sport 4S. Owners opting for the Fiorano specification can also personalize their cars with an exterior graphics package, inspired by the iconic 250LM from the 1960s, a beautiful nod to Ferrari’s illustrious heritage.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB in various environments, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It presents a strikingly beautiful and unique silhouette, a design that pays homage to the legendary 250LM, even without the more overt graphic treatments. It’s a car that commands attention and admiration, a true work of automotive art.
Performance and Acceleration Dynamics: A New Benchmark
Initiating motion in the 296 GTB is a straightforward, yet deliberate, affair. A double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss and a swift engagement of first gear are all that’s required. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will commence its journey using electric power alone, unless the driver explicitly overrides this via the intuitive haptic mode selectors on the steering wheel’s boss. So long as the throttle application remains measured and the battery retains sufficient charge, the 296 GTB will continue its silent glide purely on electric propulsion.
For those seeking an unadulterated electric experience, a dedicated EV mode can be selected, overriding any powertrain demands. Alternatively, the Performance and Qualifying modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid powertrain. In Performance mode, both the V6 engine and the electric motor work in harmony, with a secondary objective of maintaining battery charge. Qualifying mode, however, prioritizes absolute maximum performance, disregarding the battery’s state of charge in its relentless pursuit of speed.
The sensation of gliding silently through urban landscapes is an unexpected, yet deeply satisfying, pleasure. The sophisticated damping system ensures a remarkably comfortable ride, making it an ideal companion for long-distance cruising. Even luggage space is a consideration, with a reasonably sized ‘frunk’ at the front, a welcome addition absent in the SF90. However, the true question on every enthusiast’s mind, the one that fuels the anticipation, is: what does it feel like when both the V6 engine and the electric motor are unleashed in their full, unbridled glory?
The answer lies in the immediate, visceral response when the throttle is pressed firmly at low revs in a high gear. The 296 GTB simply surges forward with zero discernible lag, compelling you to question the very necessity of gear changes, such is its overwhelming potency. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that happily revs to 8,500rpm, the experience of truly uncorking the 296 GTB is nothing short of astonishing.
The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205mph – paint a picture of sheer velocity. The rate of acceleration is of the ‘hold-on-tight’ variety, inducing a nervous exhilaration that verges on the overwhelming, yet is undeniably addictive. This is a car of serious pace. And the soundtrack? It’s equally captivating, a symphony of turbocharger whines overlaid with the tuneful rasp of the V6, a soundscape that evolves with every press of the accelerator. The Ferrari 296 GTB performance is simply in a league of its own.
Ride and Handling: Precision Engineered for Pure Driving Delight
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is the astonishing responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s promise of a car designed for pure driving enjoyment is not an empty one; it’s a tangible reality. The 296 GTB feels incredibly agile, yet remarkably stable, avoiding any hint of nervousness. The steering, typically a Ferrari hallmark, is light and exceedingly quick, but crucially, it also transmits a wealth of feedback from the road. While the grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains delightfully throttle-adjustable, inviting a level of engagement that elicits pure, unadulterated joy.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a palpable absence of inertia, an eagerness to change direction and respond to even the smallest driver input. This inherent accuracy and precision make it a joy to drive, encouraging a fluid, intuitive connection with the machine. The CT Off mode offers a reassuring safety net, an electronic guardian far more astute than any human, yet even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296 GTB’s natural balance allows for delightful moments of controlled oversteer, a feat one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the 296 GTB has the remarkable ability to make even lengthy straights feel compressed. What becomes even more apparent is its surgical precision. The sheer power is readily available to break traction at the rear at numerous points around the circuit, but the 296 GTB is also acutely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes clear that precision in control yields the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build, the 296 GTB settles immediately, its Multimatic dampers working in concert with the hyper-quick steering and the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are simply breathtaking, offering a joyous experience lap after lap. This is a supercar that truly rewards skillful driving, making the Ferrari 296 GTB handling a masterclass in automotive dynamics.
Interior Ambiance: A Digital Cockpit with Analog Soul
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to those who have experienced the SF90. Ferrari has clearly drawn heavily from its hypercar for inspiration. The all-digital interface, complemented by a suite of haptic switchgear liberally applied to the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it, presents a learning curve. It’s undoubtedly complex, tasked with conveying a vast amount of information. However, the most significant challenge lies in the occasional need for a second press for inputs to register, or the uncertainty of whether a press has been successful at all. Despite these minor ergonomic quirks, the cabin undoubtedly exudes a special, focused atmosphere, befitting a Ferrari of this caliber.
The Verdict from the Experts: A Return to Form
The 2022 evo Car of the Year awards underscored the 296 GTB’s exceptional standing. In a fiercely contested battle, the McLaren Artura and the 296 GTB were separated by mere fractions. The judging panel was divided, with three experts narrowly favoring the Ferrari and three giving a slight edge to the McLaren.
Those who championed the 296 GTB, including myself, found it to be a “spectacular car.” Its beauty, outrageous speed, astonishing exploitability, and technical brilliance were lauded. The V6 engine was seen as a masterclass in downsizing, delivering drama comparable to its larger V8 brethren, and demonstrating how McLaren could learn from Ferrari’s approach to Ferrari 296 GTB V6 hybrid technology. It matched the Artura in sheer control while offering a more playful and indulgent driving experience.
Another judge declared it “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. The hybrid system, he noted, integrated seamlessly, its impact on the driving experience less intrusive than anticipated. This was attributed, in part, to the familiarity with the torquey characteristics of turbocharged V8s in models like the 488 and F8. The 296 GTB’s blistering pace was complemented by the engaging character of the V6, which produced a consistently sweet soundtrack that varied dynamically with throttle opening.
While the Ferrari’s hybrid integration received widespread praise, a significant incident occurred where the battery depleted, leaving the car immobile. Ferrari had indeed cautioned about this possibility and provided specific guidance to mitigate it. However, the inability of a company renowned for its advanced engineering, including pioneering individual rear-wheel steering, to engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent such a scenario was highlighted as a “huge oversight.” Fortunately for the 296 GTB, this occurred after the judging was complete.
The Ferrari’s signature hyper-quick steering, while divisive, and brake feel that didn’t quite match the class leaders, along with the criticized complexity of the tech interface, were points of contention. Nevertheless, the overall impression was one of irresistible seduction. One judge admitted to being initially skeptical, anticipating a car that was “too complex” and “rather gratuitous in its points of difference,” only to find himself “bewitched” by its uncanny ability to change direction, its phenomenal damping, “looney-tunes” levels of grip, and the linearity of its seemingly endless power delivery.
The sentiment that the 296 GTB represented a “real return to form for Ferrari” was widely shared, especially in contrast to the less inspiring SF90 from the previous year. Its technical sophistication and the seamless integration of its hybrid technology felt “much more natural, and far less intrusive.” The 296 GTB, it was argued, took the lessons learned from the SF90 and distilled them into a series-production model that stands as one of Ferrari’s very best.
Price and the Evolving Supercar Landscape
When a vehicle is so densely packed with cutting-edge technology, there is always a risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern echoed in early impressions of the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power output, could be unnerving in its less predictable driving characteristics.
However, the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB offers a distinctly different proposition. Its organic feel, coupled with a masterful blend of power and engaging dynamics, strikes a perfect chord. It has, in essence, redefined what a £250,000-ish supercar can be. Rumors persist of an even more potent Versione Speciale variant on the horizon, promising enhanced performance and intensity. The hope remains that the standard 296’s remarkably natural and intuitive feel will be preserved.
It is precisely this aspect of the 296 GTB’s character – its inherent drivability and connection – that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Lamborghini Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an astronomical figure for a series-production supercar, a power output that can easily overwhelm the chassis and driver if not meticulously integrated. If Lamborghini has achieved the same level of resolution as seen in the Revuelto, then we are poised for an epic twin test, a confrontation of titans that will undoubtedly capture the imagination of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. This will be a true showdown of hybrid supercar technology, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Alternatively, we could envision a staggering 2400bhp triple threat, incorporating the McLaren 750S, which, by comparison, appears almost diminutive with its “mere” 740bhp. However, the McLaren counters with a remarkably light 1389kg kerb weight, offering a formidable power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw engagement, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and exquisitely balanced chassis present a compelling contrast to the arguably more remote feel of the Ferrari. The competitive landscape for high-performance sports cars continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power Output: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque Output: Not officially quoted, estimated to be over 546lb ft
Weight: 1470kg (dry), providing a power-to-weight ratio of 566bhp/ton
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Estimated Price: £250,000+
The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB is not just a car; it’s a glimpse into the future of the supercar, a thrilling fusion of tradition and innovation. It invites you to experience a level of performance and engagement that is both exhilarating and deeply satisfying. If you’re ready to explore this electrifying evolution and understand how it sets the benchmark for what a modern supercar should be, we encourage you to connect with a Ferrari specialist or arrange a private viewing to experience this automotive masterpiece firsthand.
