The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Redefining Supercar Performance in 2025
For over a decade, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing and experiencing the relentless evolution of the supercar segm
ent. From raw, naturally aspirated beasts to the intricate dance of forced induction and electrification, the landscape has transformed dramatically. Yet, even within this era of unprecedented technological advancement, few machines have made as profound an impact as the Ferrari 296 GTB. Launched a couple of years ago, this V6 hybrid marvel continues to leave automotive enthusiasts breathless, especially as formidable rivals like the Lamborghini Temerario, boasting a staggering 903bhp and 10,000rpm redline, loom on the horizon. This is more than just a car; it’s a testament to Ferrari’s audacious spirit and its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
In 2022, Ferrari’s quintessential mid-engined supercar underwent a paradigm shift with the introduction of the 296 GTB. This was a bold departure from the award-winning twin-turbo V8 that had defined its predecessors. Instead, Maranello opted for a completely new twin-turbo V6 engine, augmented by an electric motor. This strategic embrace of hybrid power positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a supercar segment still in the nascent stages of transitioning to electrified powertrains.
At its debut, the 296 GTB’s primary adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, with its sonorous, naturally aspirated V10. While lower in outright power, the Huracán offered an intoxicating blend of V10 charisma and unadulterated aural drama, characteristics that cemented its legendary status in its prime. It also contended with the formidable McLaren 720S, which carried the torch of the twin-turbo V8. While the subsequent McLaren 750S represents an evolution of an established theme, emphasizing its class-leading power-to-weight ratio, the 903bhp, 10,000rpm, twin-turbo V8 hybrid Lamborghini Temerario stands as Sant’Agata Bolognese’s direct riposte to Maranello’s 819bhp hybridized Berlinetta.
Make no mistake, the 296 GTB packs an astonishing amount of firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, paired with an electric motor driving exclusively the rear wheels (unlike the SF90 Stradale), delivers a combined output of 819bhp. This fusion of internal combustion and electric propulsion shattered conventional supercar notions.
It’s almost impossible to overlook such an awe-inspiring power figure, and it’s easy to find yourself contemplating the ultimate destination of this power escalation – and, more importantly, where one might realistically harness such performance. But that, as they say, is a story for another day.
The 296 GTB holds a significant place in Ferrari’s lineage. It marks the first V6-powered Ferrari road car (the exquisite 246 GT Dino, while bearing a similar engine configuration, never officially wore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era). It’s also the first to feature a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger arrangement, and crucially, it’s a plug-in hybrid with an estimated all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. The compact V6 is mounted low within a novel aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase reduced by 50mm compared to its V8-engined predecessors, subtly repositioning the occupants slightly further forward for enhanced weight distribution and driver engagement.
The electric motor contributes a formidable 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. The V6 engine on its own is a masterpiece, churning out a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The headline combined power figure stands at 819bhp. Ferrari, however, strategically refrains from quoting a peak combined torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the engine and electric motor. Nevertheless, it’s safe to assume the resultant torque is nothing short of colossal. In terms of weight savings, the V6 unit is approximately 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 engines. It’s seamlessly integrated with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the battery pack – a sleek, elongated structure – is discreetly housed behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of acronyms detailing its sophisticated electronic chassis control systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has engineered a groundbreaking six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (Six-Way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes.
This innovative sensor replaces traditional yaw sensors, and in conjunction with a sensor mounted on the steering rack, provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of driver inputs and the precise grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data is then fed to other vital systems, including Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, to optimize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and confidence. The 6w-CDS also enables the novel ABS-evo system (aptly named) in RACE mode and above. This system, leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, not only shortens braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners, a critical element in maximizing lap times.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is deploying its active aerodynamics technology not to reduce drag, but to generate downforce. The marque quotes an impressive figure of 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a substantial portion, up to 100kg, being produced by the deployable rear wing integrated into the car’s tail.
The cooling system is a masterclass in thermal management. Two radiators in the front fascia handle engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers dedicated to cooling the battery pack. Hot air is efficiently expelled from the underbody, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the airflow directed to the intercoolers positioned along the flanks. The discreet apertures beneath the headlamps are dedicated to drawing in air for brake cooling. Furthermore, the wing integrated into the roofline cleverly creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a continuous surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is meticulously sculpted beneath the car. Here, particular emphasis has been placed not only on the intricate air channeling and the aggressive rear diffuser but also on optimizing the underbody’s ride height to amplify the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The limited-production 296 GTBs that we sampled on the circuit during their launch event 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 elements on the front end, contributing an extra 20kg of front downforce.
The Assetto Fiorano package extends to further carbon fiber applications within the cabin, such as the door panels, and on the exterior, collectively contributing to an overall weight saving of 12kg. This figure can be further enhanced to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. An additional enhancement for Assetto Fiorano-equipped cars is the option of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the already capable standard Pilot Sport 4S rubber. The Fiorano variant can also be customized with an exterior graphics package, drawing inspiration from the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB ‘in the metal,’ its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It presents a strikingly unique silhouette, reminiscent of the legendary 250LM of the 1960s, even without the more polarizing graphics package. It’s a design that elicits an emotional response, a hallmark of true automotive art.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Symphony of Power and Precision
Engaging with the 296 GTB is an experience that begins the moment you prepare to move. A double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss initiates the startup sequence, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will glide away solely on electric power unless the driver dictates otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode controls located on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as throttle inputs remain measured, and the battery holds a charge, the car will continue its silent progression.
Drivers can also elect to ‘force’ the car into pure EV mode, irrespective of the powertrain’s demands. Beyond this, there are the Performance and Qualifying modes. In both of these, the internal combustion engine and electric motor work in unison. Performance mode prioritizes maintaining battery charge alongside delivering exhilarating power, while Qualifying mode unleashes the ultimate performance potential, with scant regard for the battery’s state of charge.
The serene experience of gliding through villages on electric power is an unexpected pleasure. The damping sophistication ensures it’s a surprisingly comfortable cruiser, even for covering significant distances. Furthermore, the ‘frunk’ at the front offers a reasonably sized luggage compartment, a welcome practicality absent in the SF90 Stradale. However, the true essence of this hybrid supercar lies in experiencing the full force of both its engine and electric motor unleashed.
The true revelation unfolds when you forcefully deploy the throttle at low revs in a high gear. The 296 GTB surges forward with an immediacy that blurs the lines of traditional gear engagement. It’s a potency that makes you momentarily question the need for gear changes. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that willingly revs to 8500rpm, the experience when you truly uncork the 296 is nothing short of electrifying.
As the specifications suggest – with a blistering 0-62mph time in the 2.9-second bracket and a top speed nudging 205mph – the rate of acceleration is of the “hold on tight and try not to laugh” variety. It verges on the intense, yet it is paradoxically addictive. This is an undeniably rapid machine. The soundtrack, too, is a marvel, with a delightful blend of turbocharger effects harmonizing with the tuneful rasp of the V6.
Handling and Ride Quality: The Art of Controlled Exhilaration
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is the uncanny responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s stated objective of making this car “fun to drive” has been met with resounding success. It feels remarkably agile without ever bordering on being nervous. The steering, as expected from Ferrari, is typically light and quick, yet it transmits an impressive level of road feel. While grip levels are exceptionally high, as one would anticipate from a car of this caliber, it’s the throttle adjustability that truly captivates, eliciting an irrepressible grin.
Despite its quoted dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a distinct lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, encouraging an intuitive, collaborative driving style with minute inputs. This precision and accuracy are a joy to experience. The CT Off mode provides a remarkable degree of freedom, offering the reassurance of an intelligent electronic safety net far superior to human reflexes. However, even with all systems deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows it to be coaxed into oversteer in a manner that seems almost unbelievable for a car with 819bhp.
On the track, the 296 GTB possesses the remarkable ability to seemingly shrink even the longest of straights. What becomes even more apparent is its razor-sharp precision. While the power is more than sufficient to break rear traction at numerous points around the circuit, the 296 GTB is also incredibly sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes evident that precise control inputs yield 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 progressively, the 296 GTB adopts its line instantaneously, thanks to its advanced Multimatic dampers. This is beautifully complemented by the hyper-quick steering, which perfectly matches the enhanced body control provided by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are simply phenomenal, offering an exhilarating experience lap after lap.
Interior Design: A Futuristic Cockpit with a Learning Curve
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will be instantly recognizable to anyone who has spent time in the SF90 Stradale, as the 296 inherits much from its flagship sibling. The entirely digital interface, coupled with its array of haptic switchgear, presents a notable learning curve. These touch-sensitive controls are liberally applied to the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari stalks flanking it.
While undeniably complex, it’s important to acknowledge the sheer volume of information and functionality being conveyed. The most significant challenge lies in the occasional need for a second press to register simple operations, or the ambiguity of whether an input has been successfully acknowledged. Despite these minor frustrations, the cabin undeniably feels like a special place to inhabit, exuding an aura of exclusivity and cutting-edge technology.
Verdict: A Benchmark for Hybrid Supercars
In the highly competitive landscape of performance vehicles, the risk of a technologically advanced car becoming less than the sum of its parts is always present. This was a sentiment echoed in our experience with the SF90 Stradale, which, while dazzling in its power output, could sometimes feel somewhat unpredictable and challenging to read.
However, the 296 GTB is a different proposition entirely. As we discovered during the 2022 evo Car of the Year competition, where it achieved a joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura, the 296 GTB feels significantly more organic. Its masterful blend of exhilarating power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect sweet spot, effectively redefining what a supercar priced in the region of $300,000 can and should be. A more potent Versione Speciale variant of the 296 is anticipated soon, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. Our fervent hope is that the standard 296’s incredibly natural feel will be retained.
It is this core aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we ardently hope Lamborghini has meticulously addressed in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. With over 900bhp on tap, it’s an almost obscene amount of power to wield in a production supercar, and it possesses the potential to overwhelm if the rest of the car isn’t perfectly resolved to manage it. If Lamborghini has indeed achieved this delicate balance – and their success with the Revuelto offers strong grounds for optimism – then we are poised for an absolutely electrifying twin test, potentially featuring a combined output of a staggering 1700bhp!
Alternatively, we could expand this to a 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S. This car, by comparison, must now be absurdly described as the “minnow” of the group, with a mere 740bhp. However, as noted, it brings a relatively petite kerb weight of 1389kg to the table, resulting in a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, ergonomic perfection, the crispness of its steering, and the sheer deftness of its chassis set it apart from the comparatively more remote-feeling Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB: Key Specifications
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic, with active E-diff
Combined Power Output: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque Output: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Starting Price: Approximately $320,000 USD
The automotive world is in constant flux, and the pursuit of ultimate performance never truly ends. The Ferrari 296 GTB has undoubtedly set a new benchmark for what a hybrid supercar can achieve, delivering an experience that is as exhilarating as it is technologically advanced. If you’re seeking to experience the pinnacle of modern supercar engineering and want to understand how this incredible machine pushes the boundaries of performance and driver engagement, we invite you to explore your options and schedule a personal consultation to discuss how you can get behind the wheel of this automotive masterpiece.

