The Prancing Horse’s New Paradigm: A Deep Dive into the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2025
For a decade, I’ve navigated the exhilarating, and often cutthroat, world of automotive engineering and performance. I’v
e witnessed firsthand the relentless pursuit of power, the evolution of technology, and the seismic shifts that redefine automotive excellence. Today, as we stand on the precipice of a new era in supercar development, one marque continues to push boundaries with audacious innovation: Ferrari. Specifically, the Ferrari 296 GTB represents a profound departure, a bold statement that has reverberated through the industry since its 2022 debut. Even with the horizon illuminated by a 903bhp, 10,000rpm Lamborghini rival, the Ferrari 296 GTB remains a benchmark, a testament to Maranello’s enduring mastery.
The automotive landscape is a tapestry woven with tradition and transformation. For generations, the mid-engined supercar formula, exemplified by Ferrari’s legendary V8s, reigned supreme. Yet, with the arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB, a significant evolutionary leap was taken. Ferrari courageously set aside its multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8, the very heart of its recent triumphs, in favor of a revolutionary twin-turbocharged V6, significantly augmented by electric power. This strategic pivot places the Ferrari 296 GTB squarely at the vanguard of a supercar segment that is still grappling with the complexities and potential of widespread hybrid integration.
In its nascent stages, the Ferrari 296 GTB found itself in direct competition with traditional rivals. The Lamborghini Huracán, with its soul-stirring naturally aspirated V10, offered a visceral, unadulterated auditory experience and a distinct brand of charisma that captivated enthusiasts. Similarly, the McLaren 720S, a marvel of lightweight engineering powered by a potent twin-turbo V8, embodied the pinnacle of power-to-weight supremacy. While the subsequent McLaren 750S builds upon this established ethos, the 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Temerario from Lamborghini emerges as a direct, formidable challenge to Maranello’s 819bhp hybridised berlinetta, the Ferrari 296 GTB. This new breed of supercars, powered by electrification, is not merely an evolution; it’s a revolution, and the Ferrari 296 GTB is at its epicenter.
The sheer output of the Ferrari 296 GTB is, frankly, astounding. This vehicle is a harmonious symphony of an all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbocharged V6 engine and an integrated electric motor, exclusively driving the rear wheels. This configuration, distinct from the all-wheel-drive layout of the SF90 Stradale, propels the Ferrari 296 GTB to a staggering combined output of 819bhp. This figure alone shattered conventional supercar expectations and initiated a fervent discussion about the ultimate limits of power escalation in road-legal vehicles. Furthermore, it prompts a deeper contemplation: where, and how, can such prodigious performance truly be unleashed and appreciated?
What truly sets the Ferrari 296 GTB apart is its historical significance. It marks Ferrari’s inaugural V6-powered road car – a distinction that echoes the iconic, albeit emblem-less, 246 GT Dino of yesteryear. It is also the first Ferrari to feature a “hot-vee” turbocharger installation, where the turbos are nestled within the cylinder banks, optimizing packaging and response. Furthermore, its plug-in hybrid capability offers an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles, providing a glimpse into the sustainable future of high-performance motoring. The compact V6 engine is strategically mounted low within a newly developed aluminum chassis. This design choice has resulted in a 50mm reduction in wheelbase compared to its V8 predecessors, subtly repositioning the occupants slightly further forward for enhanced weight distribution.
The electric motor within the Ferrari 296 GTB contributes an impressive 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. The V6 engine, on its own, delivers a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined figure of 819bhp is the headline number, but Ferrari strategically refrains from publishing a combined peak torque figure. This omission is likely due to the intricate interplay and optimal management of power delivery between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, a testament to the sophisticated hybridization. It’s safe to infer, however, that the cumulative torque figure is nothing short of colossal. In terms of weight savings, the V6 unit is approximately 30kg lighter than its V8 counterparts. This power unit is seamlessly integrated with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, elongated structure, is discreetly housed behind the seats, further contributing to the car’s balanced weight distribution.
A Ferrari is never just about raw power; it’s about the sophisticated integration of cutting-edge technology that elevates the driving experience to an art form. The Ferrari 296 GTB is no exception, boasting a suite of advanced electronic chassis systems. At the forefront is the innovative six-axis inertial sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS. This sophisticated system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. By replacing conventional yaw sensors and working in concert with a sensor on the steering rack, the 6w-CDS grants the car an unprecedented understanding of the driver’s intentions and the available grip at the tire contact patch. This intelligence is fed to other dynamic control systems, such as the renowned Side Slip Control and the active E-diff, to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. A groundbreaking new feature, ABS-evo, debuts in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296 GTB’s brake-by-wire system, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners, a technique that demands precision and finesse.
Ferrari’s pioneering active aerodynamics technology takes a significant step forward with the Ferrari 296 GTB, shifting its focus from drag reduction to downforce generation. The marque quotes an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph. Remarkably, up to 100kg of this aerodynamic load is generated by a deployable rear wing seamlessly integrated into the car’s rear end. This dynamic aerodynamic element actively enhances stability and grip during high-speed cornering.
The thermal management of the Ferrari 296 GTB is a masterclass in engineering. Two radiators positioned in the front fascia handle engine and gearbox cooling, while two additional condensers are dedicated to managing the battery’s temperature. Hot air is efficiently expelled from the underbody, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with the airflow directed towards the intercoolers located along the car’s flanks. The discreet apertures beneath the headlamps are ingeniously designed to channel air for brake cooling, a critical element for sustained performance on track. Furthermore, a subtly integrated wing at the rear of the roofline creates a “virtual” rear screen, effectively guiding airflow to the rear of the car as if it were flowing over a continuous surface. The majority of the Ferrari 296 GTB’s downforce is generated from beneath the car. This area has received meticulous attention, not only in the channeling of air and the design of the rear diffuser but also in the precise control of the underbody’s ground clearance, thereby maximizing the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
For those seeking the absolute pinnacle of track-focused performance, the Assetto Fiorano package elevates the Ferrari 296 GTB to an even more extreme level. This optional upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, directly derived from Ferrari’s GT racing endeavors. It also introduces additional carbon fiber aerodynamic enhancements to the front end, contributing an extra 20kg of downforce. The Assetto Fiorano package further integrates more carbon fiber components within the cabin, such as door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to a significant overall weight saving of 12kg. This weight reduction can be further enhanced by an additional 3kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Another tantalizing option for Assetto Fiorano-equipped cars is the fitment of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a step up from the already formidable standard Pilot Sport 4S. To complete the race-inspired aesthetic, Assetto Fiorano cars can also be ordered with an exterior graphics package, paying homage to the iconic livery of the 1960s 250LM. Visually, the Ferrari 296 GTB is a masterpiece. Having spent considerable time with this machine, its design is undeniably captivating and refreshingly distinct from anything else on the road, subtly evoking the spirit of the legendary 250LM, even without the optional graphics.
The experience of piloting the Ferrari 296 GTB begins with a simple yet deliberate sequence: a double-press of the lower button on the steering wheel boss, followed by engaging first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent, emissions-free departure on electric power alone, unless the driver actively chooses otherwise via the intuitive haptic mode selectors on the steering wheel. With judicious throttle application, the Ferrari 296 GTB can glide through urban landscapes solely on electric power, provided the battery retains sufficient charge. For those moments when pure electric propulsion is desired, a dedicated EV mode can be “forced,” irrespective of the powertrain’s overall demands. Beyond this, dedicated Performance and Qualifying modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid powertrain. In Performance mode, both power sources work in concert, with an emphasis on maintaining battery charge for sustained exhilarating drives. Qualifying mode, however, unleashes the absolute maximum performance, with no regard for the battery’s state of charge – a true “all-out” assault on the senses.
The serene experience of gliding through picturesque villages in near silence is an unexpected yet delightful facet of the Ferrari 296 GTB. The sophisticated damping system ensures a remarkably comfortable ride, transforming even long journeys into a relaxed affair. The front trunk, or “frunk,” offers a surprisingly practical luggage space, a welcome departure from the more restrictive storage of the SF90 Stradale. However, the true question on every enthusiast’s mind revolves around the sensation when both the V6 engine and the electric motor are unleashed in their full glory.
The answer lies in the immediate, unadulterated surge of acceleration. Plant the throttle at low revs in a high gear, and the Ferrari 296 GTB simply launches forward with an astonishing lack of lag. It’s a sensation so potent that it momentarily makes one question the very necessity of gear selection. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that willingly spins to 8,500rpm, the experience of truly uncorking the Ferrari 296 GTB is nothing short of startling. As the performance figures suggest – an acceleration time from 0 to 62mph in the low 2-second range and a top speed exceeding 200mph – the rate of acceleration is intense, bordering on overwhelming, inducing a unique blend of nervous laughter and an insatiable desire for more. This is a seriously rapid machine, and its auditory accompaniment is equally compelling, with the V6’s tuneful rasp harmoniously interwoven with a captivating array of turbocharger sound effects.
The truly remarkable aspect of the Ferrari 296 GTB is the astonishing responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered with “fun to drive” as a paramount objective is unequivocally validated. The handling is exquisitely agile without ever feeling nervous or unpredictable. The steering, typically light and direct as befitting a Ferrari, offers an exceptional level of feedback, allowing the driver to feel an intimate connection with the road surface. While the grip levels are predictably immense, the Ferrari 296 GTB offers a level of adjustability on the throttle that elicits an irrepressible grin.
Despite its stated dry weight of 1470kg, the Ferrari 296 GTB feels significantly lighter, exhibiting a remarkable lack of inertia that encourages the driver to work with the car. Small, precise inputs translate into immediate and accurate responses, making for an incredibly engaging driving experience. The “CT Off” mode provides a safety net of electronic oversight, offering reassurance even when pushing the limits. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the inherent balance of the Ferrari 296 GTB allows for a degree of playful oversteer that one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the Ferrari 296 GTB has the remarkable ability to compress even the longest straights, its presence on track transforming the experience. It proves itself to be an incredibly sharp and precise instrument. While the abundant power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the circuit, the Ferrari 296 GTB is also exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. This sensitivity rewards precision, with meticulous control of the driving inputs yielding the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and responsiveness are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing into turns and allowing loads to build gradually, the Ferrari 296 GTB immediately settles into its intended line, aided by the supple yet supportive Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which perfectly complements the increased roll support offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the Ferrari 296 GTB are simply phenomenal, offering a joyous and exhilarating experience lap after lap.
The interior architecture of the Ferrari 296 GTB will feel familiar to those who have experienced the SF90 Stradale, as the Ferrari 296 GTB draws heavily from its hybrid hypercar sibling. The fully digital interface, coupled with its complimentary haptic switchgear, presents a learning curve. These touch-sensitive controls are liberally applied across the steering wheel and on traditional Ferrari pods flanking the wheel. While undoubtedly complex, it’s important to acknowledge the sheer volume of information and functions these controls manage. The primary critique, however, lies in the occasional need for a second press for simple operations to register, or the uncertainty as to whether a press has been successfully registered at all. Despite these minor usability challenges, the cabin unequivocally feels like a special place to be.
Reflecting on the evo Car of the Year 2022 awards, the Ferrari 296 GTB achieved a joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura, highlighting its exceptional standing in a highly competitive field. The judges were notably divided, with a near-even split in preference between the Ferrari and its McLaren rival. Those who favored the Ferrari 296 GTB, including esteemed road testers, lauded its spectacular design, outrageous speed, astonishing tractability, and profound technical sophistication. The V6 powertrain was praised for demonstrating to McLaren how to achieve downsizing without sacrificing drama, while its control and playfulness were highlighted as superior to the Artura.
One judge described the Ferrari 296 GTB as “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. The seamless integration of the hybrid system was commended for not significantly altering the driving experience, likely due to the familiarity with the torque-rich characteristics of turbocharged V8 engines. The Ferrari 296 GTB was recognized as being stonkingly quick, but its appeal extended beyond mere speed, benefiting from the characterful V6 engine and its always-sweet soundtrack that dynamically responds to throttle input.
While the hybrid system’s integration was widely praised, a notable incident involved the car being stranded due to a depleted battery, a situation Ferrari had pre-emptively warned about. This raised concerns about potential owner inconvenience, with one judge lamenting that a company renowned for its engineering prowess couldn’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent such an occurrence. Fortunately for the Ferrari 296 GTB, this event transpired after all scoring was completed.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering, while divisive, and brake feel that didn’t quite match the very best in class, were points of contention. The tech interface also faced widespread criticism for its complexity. Despite these criticisms, the Ferrari 296 GTB proved to be irresistibly seductive. One judge, initially skeptical of the car’s perceived complexity and “gratuitous points of difference,” ultimately found himself “bewitched” by its uncanny directional changes, astonishing damping, prodigious levels of grip, and the linearity of its seemingly unending power delivery.
The Ferrari 296 GTS, the convertible variant, also underwent rigorous evaluation, with questions arising about any compromises made with the roof retracted. Ultimately, the Ferrari 296 GTB was hailed as a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 Stradale had left some reviewers feeling underwhelmed. The technical sophistication and the natural, unobtrusive integration of its hybrid technology in the Ferrari 296 GTB were seen as key differentiators, learning from the SF90 and distilling that experience into a series production model that stands as one of Ferrari’s finest achievements.
The inherent risk with highly technological vehicles is that they can become less than the sum of their parts. This was a sentiment echoed by some reviewers regarding the SF90 Stradale, which, despite its dazzling power, could be unnerving due to its challenging driving characteristics. However, the Ferrari 296 GTB represents a distinct departure. Its organic feel and the harmonious blend of immense power and engaging dynamics strike a perfect balance, effectively redefining the capabilities of a supercar in the approximately $250,000 price bracket. Anticipation is high for the upcoming Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity, with the fervent hope that the Ferrari 296 GTB’s natural feel will be preserved.
It is this very aspect – the natural feel and dynamic coherence – that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. An output exceeding 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm the chassis if not meticulously resolved. If Lamborghini has indeed mastered this challenge, mirroring their success with the Revuelto, then we are poised for an epic twin test between two hybrid titans. And for those seeking an even broader spectrum of performance, a triple threat could be orchestrated with the McLaren 750S. While now appearing as the “minnow” of the group with a mere 740bhp, the McLaren’s feather-light kerb weight of 1389kg ensures a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and supremely deft chassis offer a contrasting, and perhaps more direct, driving experience compared to the comparatively remote feel of the Ferrari 296 GTB.
The Ferrari 296 GTB has irrevocably altered the supercar conversation. It’s a vehicle that seamlessly blends electrifying performance with an engaging and rewarding driving experience, all wrapped in a design that is both contemporary and timeless. As the automotive world continues its electrifying evolution, the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a beacon, illuminating the path forward for the ultimate driving machine.
Are you ready to experience the future of supercar performance firsthand? Explore the latest Ferrari models and discover how the innovation of the Ferrari 296 GTB is shaping the driving experience of tomorrow. Contact your local Ferrari dealership today to arrange a private consultation and test drive.
