The Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Era of Hybrid Supercar Performance and Precision
As a seasoned observer of the automotive landscape for a decade, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless evolution of the su
percar segment. We’ve moved beyond the raw, naturally aspirated symphony of yesteryear into an era defined by forced induction, hybridization, and an almost unfathomable surge in technological integration. In this dynamic environment, the arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked a pivotal moment, not just for Maranello, but for the very definition of what a high-performance hybrid supercar can be. While rivals like the anticipated Lamborghini Temerario loom large on the horizon, the 296 GTB has firmly established itself as a benchmark, a technological tour de force that redefines engagement and electrifies the driving experience.
For years, the twin-turbo V8 reigned supreme in the upper echelons of supercar engineering. However, Ferrari, in its characteristic pursuit of innovation, dared to venture into uncharted territory with the 296 GTB. It gracefully shed the venerable V8 in favor of a groundbreaking twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, augmented by an electric powertrain. This bold move immediately positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment that, while experiencing a burgeoning interest in electrification, had yet to fully embrace its transformative potential.
In its initial release, the 296 GTB’s primary adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10’s visceral character and intoxicating soundtrack. While perhaps not matching the sheer horsepower figures of its Italian compatriot, the Huracán offered an emotional connection that resonated deeply with enthusiasts. Parallel to this, the McLaren 720S, a masterclass in twin-turbo V8 performance and lightweight engineering, presented another formidable challenge. The 750S, an evolution of that theme, continues to champion the cause of power-to-weight supremacy. However, the specter of Lamborghini’s upcoming hybrid supercar, rumored to boast a staggering 903 horsepower and a 10,000 rpm redline, represents a direct, audacious challenge to Ferrari’s electrified Berlinetta, a car that already churns out an impressive 819 horsepower.
The 296 GTB, however, is far from a mere response to external pressures; it is a bold statement of intent. Its all-new, 120-degree twin-turbo V6, coupled with a potent electric motor, drives only the rear wheels—a distinction from the more complex all-wheel-drive system of the SF90 Stradale. This focused approach to power delivery, combined with its headline-grabbing 819 horsepower, shattered conventional supercar paradigms upon its debut.
It’s easy to become mesmerized by such astronomical power figures and ponder the limits of this escalating performance, questioning where it will ultimately lead and, more pertinently, where such an extreme level of capability can be truly appreciated. But that’s a discussion for another time; our focus today is on the profound implications of this technological leap.
The 296 GTB holds the distinction of being the first V6-powered road-going Ferrari to bear the Prancing Horse emblem, a lineage distinct from the revered 246 GT Dino, which never officially carried the badge during its production run. It also pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, placing the turbos within the engine’s V-angle for improved responsiveness and packaging. Furthermore, its plug-in hybrid architecture grants it an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles, offering a tantalizing glimpse into a more sustainable supercar future. The compact V6 engine is strategically mounted low within a newly developed aluminum chassis, with a wheelbase subtly reduced by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, subtly shifting the occupants’ seating position slightly forward for enhanced weight distribution and a more intimate connection with the machinery.
The electric motor contributes a significant 165 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 itself delivers a sensational 654 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque. While Ferrari judiciously refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, a testament to the intricate interplay between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, it’s safe to assume this figure is nothing short of prodigious. In terms of weight savings, the V6 unit sheds approximately 30 kg compared to Ferrari’s V8 offerings, and it’s seamlessly integrated with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, elongated structure, is neatly housed behind the seats, a clever piece of packaging that minimizes its impact on the car’s center of gravity.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. Ferrari has developed a cutting-edge six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced unit meticulously measures acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. By replacing traditional yaw sensors and working in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, the 6w-CDS provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of both driver inputs and the instantaneous grip levels at the tire contact patches. This intelligence is leveraged by systems like the Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to maximize cornering speeds while steadfastly preserving stability and driver confidence. A particularly noteworthy innovation is the ABS-evo system, activated in RACE mode and above. Integrated with the 296 GTB’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also dramatically enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners, a technique that demands exceptional poise and precision.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is deploying its active aerodynamics not solely to minimize drag, but to actively generate downforce. The marque quotes a remarkable figure of 360 kg at 155 mph, with the deployable rear wing contributing up to 100 kg of this total. This dynamic aero suite represents a significant leap forward, actively managing airflow to enhance grip and stability under extreme conditions.
The intricate thermal management of the 296 GTB is a testament to Ferrari’s engineering prowess. Two radiators in the front fascia manage engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers dedicated to chilling the battery pack. Hot air is strategically expelled from the underbody, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the flow of cooling air directed towards the intercoolers located along the car’s flanks. The subtle apertures beneath the headlamps are dedicated to cooling the brakes, while the aerodynamically integrated wing along the roofline serves a dual purpose: it helps create a ‘virtual’ rear screen, effectively guiding air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a precisely sculpted surface. The lion’s share of the 296 GTB’s downforce is generated beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid not only to the design of the underbody channeling and the rear diffuser but also to the precise ground clearance, optimizing the effectiveness of these downforce-generating elements.
The examples of the 296 GTB we sampled on a circuit during its launch were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from Ferrari’s GT racing endeavors. It also incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic enhancements on the front fascia, contributing an additional 20 kg of downforce. The Assetto Fiorano package further emphasizes weight reduction through the judicious use of carbon fiber in the cabin, including door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to an overall saving of 12 kg. This figure increases to 15 kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Further enhancing track capability, the Fiorano specification offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an upgrade from the standard Pilot Sport 4S, providing a significant increase in outright grip. Owners opting for the Fiorano pack can also personalize their vehicles with an exterior graphics package, a stylish homage to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
Having had the opportunity to intimately experience the 296 GTB, its visual appeal is undeniable. It possesses a striking aesthetic that sets it apart from anything else on the road, subtly echoing the timeless elegance of the 1960s 250LM, even without the polarizing graphics option.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Symphony of Power and Precision
Initiating the driving experience is as simple as a double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by engaging first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing it to glide away silently on electric power alone, unless the driver intentionally overrides this via the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors positioned on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as throttle inputs remain moderate and the battery charge is sufficient, the car will continue its serene journey using only electric propulsion.
Drivers have the option to actively select ‘eDrive’ mode, forcing the car into pure electric operation regardless of powertrain demands. Beyond this, ‘Performance’ and ‘Qualifying’ modes cater to more spirited driving. In ‘Performance’ mode, both the V6 engine and electric motor work in unison, with the system also prioritizing battery replenishment. ‘Qualifying’ mode, as the name suggests, unleashes the full, unadulterated fury of the powertrain, prioritizing absolute maximum performance at the expense of battery charge.
The experience of silently gliding through tranquil villages is an unexpected revelation, and the sophisticated damping system ensures a remarkably comfortable ride, making it an ideal companion for extended journeys. Furthermore, the ‘frunk’ up front offers a surprisingly practical luggage space, a welcome addition absent in the SF90 Stradale. However, what truly ignites the curiosity of any enthusiast is the sensation when both the V6 engine and the electric motor are unleashed to their full potential.
The true magic of the 296 GTB is revealed when one plants the throttle from low revs in a higher gear. The car surges forward with an astonishing lack of lag, prompting an immediate reevaluation of the need for traditional gear changes, such is its sheer potency. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that eagerly spins to an 8,500 rpm redline, the full unleashing of the 296 GTB’s capabilities is nothing short of spectacular.
The acceleration figures—a blistering 0-62 mph time in the sub-three-second bracket and a top speed exceeding 205 mph—translate into a driving experience that is both exhilarating and verging on overwhelming. It’s a sensation of relentless, almost unnerving pace, yet paradoxically addictive. The accompanying soundtrack is equally compelling, a melodious V6 rasp punctuated by the evocative notes of the twin turbos, creating a sonic tapestry that is both engaging and utterly captivating.
Ride and Handling: The Art of Exhilarating Control
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is the remarkable responsiveness of its chassis and Ferrari’s unwavering commitment to delivering an engaging driving experience. It exhibits a level of agility that never tips into nervousness, with steering that is both typically light and incredibly quick, yet imbued with a surprising level of tactile feedback. While the grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s true brilliance lies in its throttle adjustability. This characteristic allows drivers to subtly influence the car’s attitude mid-corner, eliciting a wide grin that is simply infectious.
Despite its advertised dry weight of 1470 kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter, exuding a remarkable lack of inertia. This encourages drivers to work with the car, making minute inputs and reveling in its uncanny accuracy and precision. The ‘CT Off’ mode provides a generous safety net, allowing for daring maneuvers with the reassuring knowledge that an advanced electronic brain is constantly monitoring and intervening when necessary. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296 GTB’s innate balance allows for a level of rear-end adjustability that one would scarcely believe possible in a car producing 819 horsepower.
On the track, the 296 GTB possesses the remarkable ability to seemingly compress even the longest of straights, its sharp, precise nature becoming profoundly evident. While the sheer power is readily available to break rear-end traction at numerous points around a lap, the 296 GTB remains exceptionally sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that a precise and deliberate approach to the controls yields the most rewarding results.
The turn-in accuracy and responsiveness are nothing short of extraordinary, dramatically shortening the entry phase into every corner. Instead of gently guiding the car into turns and allowing loads to build progressively, the 296 GTB settles into its line instantaneously, aided by the Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering that harmonizes beautifully with the enhanced roll support provided by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are phenomenal, offering a joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior: A Digital Realm of Sophistication
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to those who have experienced the SF90 Stradale, as it inherits a significant portion of its interior design philosophy. The fully digital interface, coupled with its complementary haptic switchgear, presents a unique challenge. These controls are liberally applied to the steering wheel and the traditional Ferrari pods flanking it.
While undeniably complex, it’s important to acknowledge the sheer volume of information and functions that need to be managed. The primary frustration arises when simple operations occasionally require a second press to register, or when there’s ambiguity about whether an input has been successfully recognized. Nevertheless, the cabin exudes an undeniable sense of occasion and exclusivity, making it a truly special place to be.
The Verdict: A Masterpiece of Hybrid Integration
In the highly competitive landscape of performance automobiles, the risk of a technologically advanced vehicle becoming less than the sum of its parts is ever-present. This was a sentiment we encountered with the SF90 Stradale, a car that, while dazzling with its raw power, left us somewhat unnerved by its less-than-intuitive driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB represents a distinct departure. As demonstrated during the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, where it secured a joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura, the 296 GTB feels remarkably organic. Its judicious blend of immense power and captivating dynamics strikes an exquisite sweet spot, effectively redefining the expectations of a supercar priced in the ballpark of £250,000. Rumors of an upcoming Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity, only heighten anticipation, with the hope that the standard 296’s profoundly natural feel will be preserved.
It is precisely this aspect of the 296 GTB’s inherent character that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900 horsepower is an almost obscene amount of power to harness in a series-production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm the chassis if not meticulously resolved. If Lamborghini has indeed perfected this delicate balance – and their recent success with the Revuelto provides strong grounds for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test, potentially featuring a combined horsepower output of 1700 bhp. Or, we could elevate the stakes further to a staggering 2400 bhp triple test, incorporating the McLaren 750S. In this scenario, the 750S, with its “mere” 740 horsepower, would be the relative minnow, but it compensates with a comparatively lithe 1389 kg kerb weight, ensuring a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw visceral appeal, ergonomic excellence, razor-sharp steering, and exquisite chassis finesse demonstrably set it apart from the comparatively more distant-feeling Ferrari.
For those seeking the pinnacle of hybrid supercar engineering, a machine that seamlessly blends breathtaking performance with an unparalleled level of driver engagement, the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a monumental achievement. Its blend of cutting-edge technology, exquisite design, and exhilarating dynamics invites you to experience the future of performance, today.
Are you ready to explore the electrifying capabilities of the Ferrari 296 GTB and discover a new dimension of driving pleasure? Contact your local Ferrari dealership to arrange a personalized consultation and a test drive that promises to redefine your understanding of automotive excellence.
