Ferrari 296 GTB 2025: The Hybrid Supercar Redefining Performance and the Benchmark for the Lamborghini Temerario
For the seasoned automotive enthusiast, the allure of Maranello’s creations is undeniab
le. Ferrari, a brand synonymous with racing pedigree and exquisite engineering, has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive performance. The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a testament to this relentless pursuit of excellence, representing a significant evolutionary leap for the Italian marque and setting a formidable benchmark for its rivals, particularly the highly anticipated Lamborghini Temerario. As an industry professional with a decade immersed in the world of high-performance vehicles, I can attest that the 296 GTB is not merely a car; it’s a paradigm shift in the supercar segment.
The advent of the 296 GTB in 2022 marked a pivotal moment, signaling Ferrari’s definitive embrace of hybrid powertrains in its mid-engined V6 supercar lineup. This was a departure from the acclaimed twin-turbo V8 that had powered previous generations, including the beloved 488 and F8 Tributo. In its place, Ferrari introduced a compact yet potent twin-turbo V6, augmented by an electric motor. This innovative fusion of internal combustion and electric propulsion positions the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment that is still navigating the complexities of electrification.
Historically, the 296 GTB’s direct competitor was the Lamborghini Huracán, celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10 symphony and visceral appeal. While the Huracán excelled in charismatic noise and analog charm, it was outgunned in sheer power by the Ferrari. The McLaren 720S, with its formidable twin-turbo V8, also presented a significant challenge, focusing on an unparalleled power-to-weight ratio. However, the landscape has dramatically shifted. With the 2025 model year upon us, the horizon is dominated by the impending arrival of the Lamborghini Temerario. This hybrid V8 powerhouse, rumored to deliver a staggering 10,000 rpm redline and over 900 horsepower, is Maranello’s clear provocation, a direct response to the audacious engineering found in the 819 horsepower hybrid Berlinetta.
The Power of Two Worlds: Unpacking the Ferrari 296 GTB’s Powertrain
The sheer potency of the 296 GTB is, without question, its most arresting attribute. The heart of this marvel is an all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, an engineering masterpiece that, when combined with its electric counterpart, unleashes a colossal 819 horsepower. Unlike its flagship stablemate, the SF90 Stradale, which directs power to all four wheels, the 296 GTB channels its might exclusively to the rear, a decision that amplifies its purist supercar credentials. This configuration immediately shattered conventional expectations within the supercar arena.
It’s easy to become fixated on such astronomical power figures, leading one to ponder the ultimate limits of this escalation and, more pragmatically, the scenarios where such performance can be truly unleashed. Yet, the 296 GTB transcends mere horsepower. It is, in fact, the first road-legal Ferrari to feature a V6 engine – a nod to the iconic 246 GT Dino, though the Dino never bore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era. Furthermore, it pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger arrangement, where the turbochargers are nestled within the engine’s V-angle for enhanced efficiency and responsiveness. As a plug-in hybrid, it also offers an impressive electric-only range of approximately 15 miles, providing a whisper-quiet, emissions-free mode for urban excursions.
The V6 powerplant is meticulously integrated into a novel aluminum chassis. The wheelbase has been reduced by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, and the occupants are positioned slightly further forward, contributing to a more compact and agile overall footprint. The electric motor itself contributes a substantial 165 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. The V6 engine alone is a tour de force, generating a remarkable 654 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque. While Ferrari strategically refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the electric motor and the V6, it is safe to assume that the resultant torque delivery is nothing short of prodigious. Crucially, the V6 unit is approximately 30kg lighter than its V8 counterparts, and it’s mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a slim, elongated structure, is cleverly housed behind the seats, minimizing its impact on weight distribution and cabin space.
Navigating the Edge: Advanced Chassis Dynamics and Aerodynamics
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis management systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. At its core lies the revolutionary six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system continuously monitors acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, offering an unprecedented level of real-time data on the car’s dynamic state.
Replacing traditional yaw sensors, the 6w-CDS works in concert with a sensor on the steering rack. This allows the car to not only understand the driver’s intentions but also to accurately gauge the available grip at the tire contact patches. This data is then fed to systems like Side Slip Control (SSC) and the active electronic differential (E-Diff) to optimize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. A groundbreaking feature enabled by this system is ABS-evo, integrated into RACE mode and above. Utilizing the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, a crucial technique for maximizing corner entry speed.
Ferrari has also ingeniously applied its active aerodynamics technology, not for drag reduction, but for generating downforce. The firm quotes an astonishing 360kg of downforce at 155 mph, with a substantial 100kg of that figure being produced by the deployable rear wing. This sophisticated aerodynamic package is meticulously sculpted to enhance grip and stability at extreme velocities.
The thermal management of the 296 GTB is equally impressive. Two radiators located in the front fascia manage engine and gearbox cooling, complemented by two additional condensers dedicated to cooling the battery pack. Hot air is expertly expelled from the underbody, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the flow of cooling air directed to the intercoolers along the flanks of the car. The small apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, a critical element for sustained performance on track. Furthermore, an integrated wing at the rear of the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, effectively channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a solid surface, further contributing to aerodynamic efficiency. The majority of the car’s downforce is generated from beneath, with particular attention paid not only to the intricate channeling of air and the rear diffuser but also to the critical underbody ride height, which significantly influences the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The Assetto Fiorano Experience: Elevating the Stakes
For those seeking the ultimate expression of the 296 GTB’s performance capabilities, the optional Assetto Fiorano package is a compelling proposition. This track-focused upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from Ferrari’s GT racing programs. It also introduces additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front end, contributing an extra 20kg of downforce.
The weight-saving continues within the cabin, with extensive use of carbon fiber in components like the door panels. The exterior also benefits from carbon fiber accents, resulting in a total weight saving of 12kg. Opting for the Lexan rear engine cover further reduces this figure by an additional 3kg. To complement these enhancements, the Assetto Fiorano package offers the option of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a significant upgrade from the standard Pilot Sport 4S rubber, providing even greater adhesion and track-focused performance. Owners can also personalize their Assetto Fiorano-equipped 296 GTB with an exterior graphics package, a stylish homage to the legendary 250LM of the 1960s.
From a visual standpoint, the 296 GTB is a masterpiece. Having spent considerable time appreciating its form “in the metal,” I can confidently say it’s a strikingly beautiful machine, exuding a unique presence unlike anything else on the road. Its design subtly evokes the spirit of the 250LM, even without the optional livery.
The Driving Experience: From Serene Silence to Electrifying Fury
Initiating a drive in the 296 GTB is elegantly straightforward. A double-press of the lower button on the steering wheel boss, followed by engaging first gear, awakens the hybrid powertrain. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, beginning its journey on electric power alone, unless the driver overrides this via the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors on the steering wheel. Gentle throttle inputs will maintain electric propulsion, provided the battery has sufficient charge.
The “Force EV” mode allows for pure electric driving regardless of powertrain demands, while the “Performance” and “Qualifying” modes unlock the full potential of the combined V6 and electric motor. In Performance mode, the system prioritizes both exhilarating acceleration and maintaining battery charge. Qualifying mode, as the name suggests, dedicates all resources to achieving ultimate performance, with little regard for the battery’s state of depletion.
The ability to glide silently through urban landscapes is a surprisingly pleasant revelation. The damping system is exceptionally refined, making the 296 GTB a remarkably comfortable companion for covering long distances. Even the luggage space in the front ‘frunk’ is more practical than in the SF90, adding a welcome dose of everyday usability. But the true question on everyone’s mind is: what does it feel like when both the V6 and the electric motor are unleashed in their full glory?
The answer is, unequivocally, astounding. Prod the throttle at low revs in a high gear, and the 296 GTB surges forward with an immediacy that defies convention, blurring the lines between gear shifts and immediate acceleration. While the eight gears offer ample engagement, it’s when the V6 truly comes alive, revving to its 8500rpm redline, that the experience becomes utterly breathtaking.
The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205 mph – translate to an intensity that borders on the uncomfortable, eliciting nervous laughter and a sensation of being pinned to your seat. Yet, this raw speed is strangely addictive. The soundtrack is equally captivating, a harmonious blend of turbocharger whistles and the tuneful rasp of the V6, creating an auditory experience that perfectly complements the visceral thrust.
Dynamics That Delight: Agile, Precise, and Incredibly Engaging
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is the astonishing responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s claim that the car was engineered to be “fun to drive” is not an exaggeration; it’s a demonstrable reality. The handling is exceptionally agile without ever feeling nervous or unpredictable. The steering, typically light and swift in true Ferrari fashion, is also remarkably communicative, providing nuanced feedback from the road surface. While the grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains wonderfully throttle-adjustable, encouraging playful interaction and eliciting broad smiles.
Despite its claimed dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter and more nimble. There’s a remarkable lack of inertia, allowing the driver to work with the car, making precise inputs and reveling in its accuracy. Engaging the CT Off mode provides a remarkable degree of freedom, with the reassuring knowledge that sophisticated electronic safety nets are still in place. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the inherent balance of the 296 GTB allows for controlled oversteer, a feat that might seem improbable in a car producing 819 horsepower.
On a circuit, the 296 GTB possesses the uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel shorter. Its sharpness as a track instrument is immediately apparent. While ample power is available to break traction at numerous points around a lap, the car’s sensitivity to braking and steering inputs rewards precision. Mastery of the controls directly translates into faster lap times and a more rewarding driving experience. The turn-in accuracy and response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing into turns, the 296 GTB takes an immediate set, its suspension reacting instantaneously to the hyper-quick steering and the enhanced roll support provided by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are simply extraordinary, offering an addictive joy lap after lap.
The Interior Ambiance: A Blend of Familiarity and Futuristic Interface
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90 Stradale, as it shares a significant design lineage. The entirely digital interface, coupled with its associated haptic switchgear, presents a learning curve. This complex array of controls is liberally applied to the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it.
While undoubtedly intricate, the system aims to convey a wealth of information. However, its most significant drawback lies in the occasional need for multiple presses for simple operations to register, or the uncertainty of whether a command has been successfully received. Despite these interface challenges, the cabin undeniably exudes a special, focused ambiance, befitting a supercar of this caliber.
Expert Verdict: The 2022 evo Car of the Year Contender
The 2022 evo Car of the Year competition saw the 296 GTB emerge as a formidable contender, narrowly missing out on victory but earning widespread acclaim. The road testers were divided, with the Ferrari and the McLaren Artura often separated by the slimmest of margins. Three judges, including myself, narrowly favored the Ferrari, while three placed the McLaren ahead.
Jethro Bovingdon’s assessment captured the sentiment of many: “What a spectacular car. Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever. Its V6 shows McLaren how to downsize but turn up the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control but feels a bit more playful and indulgent.”
Dickie Meaden echoed this praise, declaring it “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further noted, “The hybrid system works very well and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared. Probably because we’ve already got used to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8 in the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick but doesn’t rely solely on speed thanks to the character of the V6, which has a soundtrack that’s always sweet and changes with throttle opening.”
The seamless integration of the Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely lauded. However, one notable incident saw a car left stranded due to a depleted battery, highlighting a potential oversight in the fail-safe mechanisms – a point of concern raised by the judges. Despite this, the 296 GTB’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinions, and the brake feel, while good, didn’t quite match the benchmark set by other elite vehicles in the group. The complex tech interface also drew criticism. Nevertheless, the overwhelming sentiment was one of irresistible seduction. Vivian, initially skeptical, found himself “somewhat bewitched” by the car’s uncanny directional changes, its exceptional damping, astonishing grip levels, and the “linearity of seemingly never-ending power.”
As Peter Tomalin, editor of evo, concluded, “The 296 is way more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural, and far less intrusive.” He added, “Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learnt from that car and distilled it into a series production model that’s one of its very best.”
The Competitive Arena: Ferrari 296 GTB vs. the Supercar Elite
In the hyper-competitive supercar market, there’s always a risk that an excess of technology can lead to a result less than the sum of its parts. This was a critique leveled at the SF90, which, despite its dazzling power, could feel somewhat unapproachable in its driving characteristics. The 296 GTB, however, navigates this minefield with remarkable finesse. As demonstrated at the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, where it secured a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, the 296 GTB strikes a harmonious balance between explosive power and deeply engaging dynamics. It truly redefines what a supercar in the £250,000 price bracket can achieve. Rumors of a ‘Versione Speciale’ variant, promising even greater power and intensity, are circulating, with hopes that the standard car’s natural feel will be retained.
It is precisely this nuanced driving character that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously honed in its forthcoming hybrid Temerario supercar. The prospect of over 900 horsepower in a series production supercar is an almost obscene proposition, one that could easily overwhelm the chassis if not perfectly resolved. If Lamborghini has indeed succeeded in replicating the brilliance of the Revuelto in the Temerario, we are poised for an epic twin-test showdown.
Alternatively, we could envision a three-way battle, incorporating the McLaren 750S, which, at 740 horsepower, might now be considered the “minnow” of this elite class. However, the McLaren compensates with a remarkably light kerb weight of 1389kg, ensuring a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, ergonomic design, the crispness of its steering, and the deftness of its chassis offer a distinct counterpoint to the comparatively more remote feel of the Ferrari.
The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Synthesis of Innovation and Emotion
The Ferrari 296 GTB is more than just a hybrid supercar; it’s a bold statement of intent from Maranello. It successfully marries cutting-edge hybrid technology with the visceral thrill and emotional connection that have defined Ferrari for generations. Its innovative V6 powertrain, sophisticated aerodynamics, and dynamically brilliant chassis create an experience that is both ferociously fast and delightfully engaging.
As the automotive world continues its electrifying evolution, the 296 GTB stands as a beacon of what is possible when tradition and innovation converge. Its benchmark performance and engaging driving dynamics present a formidable challenge for any competitor, most notably the forthcoming Lamborghini Temerario.
Are you ready to experience the future of supercar performance? Explore the unparalleled capabilities of the Ferrari 296 GTB and discover how you can secure your place behind the wheel of this automotive masterpiece. Contact our Ferrari specialists today to arrange a personal consultation and begin your journey into the extraordinary.

