The Ferrari 296 GTB 2025: A Hybrid Masterpiece Facing an Electrifying Horizon
For a decade now, the supercar landscape has been a canvas of roaring V8s and screaming V10s. I’ve spent those years immer
sed in the visceral thrill of internal combustion, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in automotive engineering. Yet, even with a decade of experience under my belt, the arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 felt like a seismic shift, a glimpse into a future I’d only theorized about. Now, as we stand on the cusp of 2025, with whispers of a 10,000 rpm, 903 bhp hybrid rival from Lamborghini on the horizon, the Ferrari 296 GTB review becomes more pertinent than ever. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, a bold step into electrification that redefines the very essence of a performance V6 hybrid supercar.
Ferrari’s storied lineage of mid-engined supercars has always been synonymous with evolutionary refinement. The 296 GTB, however, represented a radical departure. It bid adieu to the multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8, a powerplant that had graced their most celebrated machines, and embraced a completely new twin-turbo V6, augmented by electric power. This bold move positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment still in the throes of its hybrid transition, a segment where raw power often danced with the soul-stirring acoustics of naturally aspirated engines.
In its initial outing, the 296 GTB’s closest competitor was the Lamborghini Huracán, a V10 marvel that traded on sonic charisma and an unfiltered connection to the road. While less potent on paper, its naturally aspirated symphony was a siren song to purists. Then there was the McLaren 720S, a twin-turbo V8 behemoth focused on shedding weight and maximizing power-to-weight ratios. While the new McLaren 750S continues this philosophy, the purported 903 bhp, 10,000 rpm V8 hybrid Temerario from Lamborghini signals a direct challenge to Maranello’s 819 bhp electrified Berlinetta. The stakes, as they say, have never been higher for hybrid supercars.
Let’s be clear: the Ferrari 296 GTB packs an astonishing amount of firepower. Its entirely new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6, coupled with an electric motor, drives only the rear wheels (a distinct choice from the four-wheel-drive SF90). This groundbreaking configuration, delivering a formidable 819 bhp, shattered conventional supercar paradigms. The sheer audacity of such a power output begs the question: where does this escalation end? And more importantly, where can one truly experience such prodigious performance? These are questions for another time; for now, let’s delve into what makes the 296 GTB so revolutionary.
This V6 hybrid supercar marks a significant milestone. It’s the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to wear the Prancing Horse emblem – the delectable 246 GT Dino, while a V6 masterpiece, predated this honour. It also pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation and, crucially, is a plug-in hybrid with an EV-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 engine is nestled low within a bespoke aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, subtly repositioning the occupants slightly further forward.
The electric motor alone contributes an impressive 165 bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque. The V6, in isolation, churns out a remarkable 654 bhp and 546 lb-ft. The combined output reaches that headline-grabbing 819 bhp figure. Ferrari wisely abstains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the engine and electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this combined torque is nothing short of colossal. Furthermore, the V6 engine itself is 30kg lighter than its V8 counterparts, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, rectangular unit, resides discreetly behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without a sophisticated suite of electronic chassis management systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has engineered a six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS, capable of precisely measuring acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. This advanced sensor replaces traditional yaw sensors and, working in tandem with a sensor on the steering rack, provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of driver input and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data empowers systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to maximize cornering speeds while steadfastly preserving stability and occupant confidence. It also enables the novel ABS-evo system, engaged in RACE mode and above. This innovative system, leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, not only shortens braking distances but also enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners. For those seeking the ultimate in high-performance hybrid cars, these systems are paramount.
In a significant shift for aerodynamic development, Ferrari is deploying its active aerodynamics not for drag reduction, but for enhancing downforce. The manufacturer quotes an impressive 360 kg of downforce at 155 mph, with up to 100 kg generated by the deployable rear wing. The thermal management is equally sophisticated: two radiators in the nose handle engine and gearbox cooling, complemented by two additional condensers for the battery. Hot air is expelled from beneath the car, strategically routed to avoid interfering with the cooling air directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while the roofline-integrated rear wing ingeniously creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding airflow towards the rear of the car as if guided by a surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated underneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to airflow channeling, the rear diffuser, and crucially, the underbody’s ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
Our initial experiences with the 296 GTB on track were exclusively with the Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with race-derived Multimatic units and adds carbon-fiber aerodynamic enhancements to the nose, increasing front downforce by an additional 20 kg. Further weight savings are realized through increased use of carbon fiber in the cabin (such as door panels) and exterior elements, contributing to a total reduction of 12 kg. Opting for the Lexan rear engine cover shaves off another 3 kg. For the ultimate grip, the Assetto Fiorano specification also allows for the fitment of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a step up from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Assetto Fiorano-equipped cars can also be personalized with an exterior graphics package, inspired by the iconic 250LM of the 1960s. Even without this distinctive livery, the 296 GTB, in the metal, is a breathtakingly beautiful machine, possessing a distinctiveness that sets it apart from any other offering on the road. For those in Los Angeles supercar rentals seeking a truly unique experience, this is it.
To initiate forward motion, a double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss and selecting first gear is all that’s required. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will glide away on electric power alone unless prompted otherwise via the haptic driver mode selectors on the left side of the wheel boss. As long as throttle inputs remain gentle, and the battery has sufficient charge, it will continue its silent journey. A dedicated ‘EV’ mode can be forced, overriding powertrain demands. Beyond this, you have Performance and Qualifying modes, where both power sources unite. Performance mode aims to keep the battery topped up, while Qualifying mode unleashes ultimate performance, disregarding the battery’s state of charge.
The unexpected serenity of gliding through urban landscapes is a peculiar pleasure. The damping sophistication is such that it transforms into a remarkably comfortable cruiser for longer journeys. Even the luggage space in the ‘frunk’ is surprisingly practical, a welcome departure from the SF90. But what truly ignites the soul, what you and I are undoubtedly eager to discover, is the sensation when both the V6 engine and electric motor are unleashed to their full potential.
The clue lies in what happens when you bury the throttle at low revs in a higher gear: the 296 GTB simply catapults forward, devoid of any perceptible lag. For a fleeting moment, you question the very necessity of gears, such is its instantaneous potency. Yet, there are eight gears at your disposal, and an engine that willingly spins to 8,500 rpm. When the 296 GTB truly comes alive, the effect is nothing short of astonishing. The acceleration figures (0-62 mph in 2.9 seconds, a top speed exceeding 205 mph) translate into a sensation of relentless propulsion, bordering on overwhelming, yet paradoxically, utterly addictive. This is a seriously rapid automobile, and its soundtrack is equally captivating, a harmonious blend of turbocharger effects overlaying a tuneful V6 rasp. Exploring Ferrari 296 GTB performance is an experience in itself.
What truly elevates the 296 GTB is the extraordinary responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s promise of making this car “fun to drive” is not mere marketing hyperbole. It feels incredibly agile, yet remarkably stable. The steering, typically light and swift, provides a surprising level of feedback. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains remarkably throttle-adjustable in a manner that guarantees an irrepressible grin. Despite its dry weight of 1470 kg, it feels significantly lighter, exhibiting a lack of inertia that encourages a fluid, intuitive driving style. Small, precise inputs elicit immediate responses, rewarding accuracy and refinement. The CT Off mode offers a safety net of electronic intervention, a sophisticated guardian far more capable than your own reflexes, yet even with all systems disengaged, the inherent balance of the 296 GTB allows for exhilarating, controlled oversteer – a feat few would anticipate from a car with 819 bhp. For enthusiasts seeking performance car reviews, this is a benchmark.
On the track, the 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to make even the longest straight feel remarkably short. Its prowess as a sharp instrument becomes acutely apparent. The sheer power is sufficient to break traction at the rear at numerous points around the circuit, yet the 296 GTB is remarkably sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Precision with the controls is unequivocally rewarded. The turn-in accuracy and immediacy 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 instantly, its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering perfectly complementing the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are simply phenomenal, delivering an exhilarating experience lap after lap. This is a machine that demands your full attention, and richly rewards it, a true testament to Italian supercar engineering.
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90; the 296 GTB draws heavily from its electrified sibling. The fully digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, liberally applied to the steering wheel and surrounding Ferrari pods, present a significant learning curve. It is undeniably complex, tasked with conveying a vast amount of information. However, the frustration arises when simple operations sometimes require a second press to register, or when there’s no clear indication of success. Nevertheless, the overall impression is one of a truly special environment. For those in the market for luxury sports cars, the interior experience is a crucial consideration.
In the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, the competition was fierce. The scores between the McLaren Artura and the 296 GTB were incredibly close, with judges narrowly divided. Three favored the Ferrari, while three edged towards the McLaren. Those who championed the 296 GTB praised its spectacular design, outrageous speed, exploitable performance, and technical brilliance. Jethro Bovingdon lauded the V6’s ability to downsize while amplifying drama, noting its control matched the Artura’s but with a more playful, indulgent character. Dickie Meaden declared it the “first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” and many echoed this sentiment. He highlighted the seamless integration of the hybrid system, which, contrary to fears, didn’t detract from the driving experience, possibly due to familiarity with the torque-rich characteristics of turbocharged V8s. He emphasized its stonking pace, but noted it didn’t solely rely on speed, with the V6 offering a sweet, throttle-responsive soundtrack.
However, the hybrid system, while praised for its seamlessness, did present a challenge. One instance left the car stranded after the battery depleted, with no apparent means of revival. Ferrari had, of course, provided guidance on preventing such scenarios. Nevertheless, the possibility of an owner finding themselves in a similar predicament was a valid concern. Gallagher poignantly remarked, “For the company that pioneered individual rear-wheel steering, the inability to engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this is a significant oversight.” Fortunately, this occurred after scoring, allowing the 296 to retain its strong standing. The Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel didn’t quite match the segment’s best. The tech interface also faced widespread criticism for its overcomplexity. Yet, despite these criticisms, the 296 GTB remained irresistibly seductive. Vivian, initially skeptical, found himself “bewitched by its spooky directional changes, amazing damping, looney-tunes levels of grip, and the linearity of seemingly never-ending power.”
The 296 GTS review further explores the convertible variant, questioning if any of the magic is lost with the roof down. Ultimately, the consensus was that the 296 GTB represented a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially following the somewhat less inspiring SF90. Peter Tomalin concluded, “The 296 is far more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural, and far less intrusive.” Gallagher concurred, stating, “Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learned from that car, and distilled it into a series-production model that is one of its very best.” This sentiment solidifies the Ferrari 296 GTB value proposition for discerning enthusiasts.
The risk inherent in packing a car with such advanced technology is that it can become less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern echoed in our experience with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, proved unnerving with its hard-to-read driving characteristics. The 296 GTB, however, navigates this treacherous territory with remarkable grace. As demonstrated in our 2022 Euro Car of the Year assessment, where it secured a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, it feels far more organic. Its masterful blend of potent power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect chord, effectively redefining what a £250,000-ish supercar can achieve. Rumors of a Versione Speciale variant – a temporary codename indicating even greater power, performance, and intensity – are circulating, and the hope is that the standard 296’s inexplicably natural feel will be retained. For those seeking exotic car financing, the 296 GTB presents a compelling, albeit exclusive, opportunity.
It is precisely this aspect of the 296 GTB’s constitution that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900 bhp is an almost obscene amount of power to wield in a production supercar; without a resolutely resolved chassis to match, it could easily become unruly. If Lamborghini has indeed hit the mark – and their success with the Revuelto offers ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for a truly monumental 1700 bhp twin test. Or, perhaps, a 2400 bhp triple threat if we include the McLaren 750S, now humorously described as the “minnow” of this pack with its mere 740 bhp. However, the McLaren compensates with a relatively svelte 1389 kg kerb weight, ensuring a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw character, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and deft chassis control offer a tangible contrast to the comparatively remote feel of the Ferrari. When considering best hybrid sports cars, the competition is heating up.
The Ferrari 296 GTB 2025 stands as a testament to innovation, a brilliant fusion of blistering performance and cutting-edge hybrid technology. It has not only met expectations but has surpassed them, setting a new benchmark for what a modern supercar can and should be. As the automotive world hurtles towards an electrified future, the 296 GTB serves as a shining example of how tradition and innovation can coalesce to create something truly extraordinary.
Are you ready to experience the future of performance? Contact your local Ferrari dealership or explore authorized pre-owned options to discover the exhilarating world of the Ferrari 296 GTB and embark on your own unforgettable automotive journey.
