The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Revolution Redefining Supercar Excellence in 2025
As an industry veteran with a decade immersed in the exhilarating world of automotive performance, I’ve witnessed seismi
c shifts in how we define a supercar. The relentless pursuit of power, the evolution of engineering, and the ever-present specter of electrification have reshaped expectations. In this dynamic landscape, the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a beacon, a bold statement from Maranello that has not only met but surpassed the evolving demands of the modern performance enthusiast. Even as formidable rivals emerge, like the much-anticipated Lamborghini Temerario, the 296 GTB continues to hold its ground, a testament to its groundbreaking design and unadulterated driving prowess.
For years, Ferrari’s mid-engined supercars have been synonymous with the thunderous roar of a twin-turbo V8. This formula, while undeniably potent and beloved, reached its zenith. The arrival of the 296 GTB in 2022 signaled a profound, almost unprecedented, departure. Maranello made the audacious choice to retire its multi-award-winning V8 in favor of a completely new, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, intricately augmented by an electric powertrain. This wasn’t merely an update; it was a paradigm shift, positioning the 296 GTB at the forefront of a supercar segment that was, at the time, only tentatively embracing hybrid technology.
At its debut, the 296 GTB’s most direct adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10 symphony and visceral engagement. While the Huracán offered a compelling auditory experience and raw character, it was outgunned by the 296 GTB’s sheer output. The McLaren 720S, a twin-turbo V8 behemoth, also stood as a formidable competitor, a masterclass in power-to-weight supremacy. However, the landscape has rapidly intensified. The emergence of the 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Temerario from Lamborghini represents a direct challenge, a gauntlet thrown down by Sant’Agata Bolognese at Ferrari’s hybrid masterpiece. The 296 GTB, with its 819bhp, is Maranello’s formidable riposte, a technologically sophisticated Berlinetta that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.
The sheer potency of the 296 GTB is undeniable. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, paired with an electric motor, drives the rear wheels exclusively – a distinction from the all-wheel-drive SF90. This configuration delivers a staggering combined output of 819bhp, a figure that utterly reshaped supercar conventions upon its release. It’s easy to be captivated by such colossal power figures and ponder the ultimate destination of this performance escalation – a question that inevitably arises when contemplating the 296 and its V10-rivaling counterparts. The more pertinent question, perhaps, is where one can truly unleash such capabilities.
The 296 GTB marks a significant milestone for Ferrari. It’s the first road-legal Ferrari to feature a V6 engine (the iconic 246 GT Dino, while possessing a V6, never bore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era). Furthermore, it proudly incorporates a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger arrangement and a plug-in hybrid system, offering an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is mounted remarkably low within a newly engineered aluminum chassis. Ferrari has strategically reduced the wheelbase by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, subtly repositioning the occupants slightly further forward to enhance weight distribution and agility.
The electric motor itself contributes an impressive 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. On its own, the V6 unleashes a formidable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined output of 819bhp is the headline figure, though Ferrari wisely abstains from quoting a combined peak torque figure. This is likely due to the complex interplay between the V6 and the electric motor, but it’s safe to surmise that the cumulative torque is, to put it mildly, substantial. Crucially, this V6 unit is approximately 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 engines. It’s mated to an advanced eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the compact battery pack – a slender, oblong structure – is neatly housed behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of acronyms denoting its sophisticated electronic chassis management systems. For the 296, the engineers at Maranello have developed the six-axis sensor unit, aptly named 6w-CDS. This innovative system precisely measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. It effectively replaces traditional yaw sensors and, in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, provides the car with an intimate understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This intelligence is then seamlessly integrated with systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, all working in concert to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and security. A novel feature, ABS-evo, debuts in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire system, it not only shortens braking distances but also refines braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners, allowing for a more precise and controlled entry.
In a significant departure from convention, Ferrari is now employing its active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to generate downforce. The company claims an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph. A substantial portion of this, up to 100kg, is directly attributable to the deployable rear wing, which gracefully extends from the rear of the car when needed.
The cooling architecture of the 296 GTB is a marvel of engineering. Two radiators in the nose manage engine and gearbox temperatures, supplemented by two additional condensers dedicated to cooling the battery. Hot air is strategically expelled beneath the car, preventing any interference with the flow of cooling air directed to the intercoolers situated along the flanks. The discreet apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to feeding cool air to the brakes, while the aerodynamically integrated wing at the rear of the roofline plays a crucial role in creating a ‘virtual’ rear screen. This effectively channels air towards the rear of the car, as if guided by a meticulously sculpted surface, further enhancing aerodynamic efficiency. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car. Here, meticulous attention has been paid not only to the intricate ducting and the aggressive rear diffuser but also to the precise ground clearance, optimizing the effectiveness of the downforce-generating surfaces.
The examples of the 296 GTB I had the privilege of testing on a circuit during its launch were all equipped with the Assetto Fiorano package. This optional upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, directly derived from GT racing technology. It also introduces additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front fascia, contributing an extra 20kg of front-end downforce. The Assetto Fiorano package further enhances the car’s exotic character through increased use of carbon fiber in the cabin, including the door panels, and on exterior components, resulting in an overall weight saving of 12kg. This saving can be extended to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For those seeking ultimate grip, the Fiorano pack also offers the option of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Additionally, Fiorano-equipped cars can be personalized with an exterior graphics package, paying homage to the iconic 250LM from the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB, both visually and dynamically, I can confidently state that it is a truly breathtaking machine. Its design language is unlike anything else on the road, exuding a timeless elegance that even without the optional graphics, subtly echoes the spirit of the legendary 250LM.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Hybrid Symphony of Speed
Initiating movement in the 296 GTB is as simple as a double-press of the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will silently glide away on electric power alone, unless deliberately overridden via the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as the throttle inputs remain judicious, and the battery retains sufficient charge, the 296 will continue its journey on pure electric power.
Drivers have the option to fully engage EV mode, irrespective of powertrain demands, or select from Performance and Qualifying modes. In these dynamic settings, both the V6 engine and the electric motor work in unison. Performance mode prioritizes an exhilarating drive while also ensuring the battery is replenished, whereas Qualifying mode unleashes the absolute pinnacle of performance, with scant regard for the battery’s state of charge.
The serene experience of gliding through urban landscapes is an unexpected delight. The damping calibration is so sophisticated that the 296 GTB proves to be a surprisingly comfortable and composed companion for long-distance journeys. Even luggage capacity is surprisingly practical, with a useful ‘frunk’ at the front – a welcome improvement over the SF90. However, the true essence of this machine, the experience that ignites the passion of enthusiasts, lies in unleashing both the V6 engine and the electric motor in their full glory.
The potency of the 296 GTB is immediately evident when one plants the throttle at low revs in a high gear. The car surges forward with an almost telepathic response, virtually eliminating any perceptible lag and making one momentarily question the very need for gear changes, such is its immediate and ferocious thrust. Yet, the eight gears are there to be exploited, and the V6 engine, capable of revving to a stratospheric 8500rpm, delivers an absolutely astonishing experience when fully unleashed.
As the performance figures suggest (0-62mph in just 2.9 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 205mph), the rate of acceleration is nothing short of breathtaking, verging on the intensely visceral. It’s an experience that elicits a nervous, exhilarating laughter, simultaneously borderline overwhelming and undeniably addictive. This is a supercar that redefines rapid. And the auditory experience is equally captivating, with the V6’s melodious rasp harmoniously interwoven with a symphony of turbocharger sounds.
Ride and Handling: Precision, Agility, and Pure Driving Joy
What truly distinguishes the 296 GTB is the astonishing responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s promise of a “fun-to-drive” experience is not merely marketing hyperbole; it’s an engineered reality. The car feels incredibly agile without ever bordering on being twitchy or unpredictable. The steering, a hallmark of Ferrari’s best, is typically light and exceptionally quick, yet it delivers a remarkable level of tactile feedback, providing an intimate connection to the road. While grip levels are predictably immense, the 296 GTB also offers a remarkable degree of adjustability on the throttle, a characteristic that inevitably brings a broad grin to the driver’s face.
Despite its claimed dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels considerably lighter. There’s a remarkable lack of inertia throughout the entire car, encouraging the driver to work with its precise movements, making subtle inputs and reveling in its accuracy. The CT Off mode allows for audacious exploration of the car’s limits, all while providing the comforting reassurance of sophisticated electronic safety nets far more intelligent than our own. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows for a level of playful oversteer that one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp.
On the track, the 296 GTB possesses an uncanny ability to dramatically reduce the perceived length of even the longest straights. What becomes even more apparent is its sharp, surgical precision. The sheer volume of power is more than sufficient to break rear-end traction at numerous points around the circuit. Yet, the 296 GTB is exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs, quickly teaching the driver that precision in control yields the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and immediate response dramatically shorten the entry phase into every corner. Instead of gently easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build, the 296 GTB settles instantly into its line, aided by the exceptional Multimatic dampers. This is perfectly complemented by the hyper-quick steering and the enhanced body control provided by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more potent sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are phenomenal and deliver an addictive joy lap after lap.
The Interior: A Tech-Forward Sanctuary
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to those who have experienced the SF90 Stradale, as the 296 borrows extensively from its larger sibling. The fully digital interface, coupled with its haptic switchgear – liberally applied to the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it – presents a steep learning curve. It is undeniably complex, and while it aims to convey a wealth of information, the most significant frustration lies in how often simple operations require a second attempt, or leave the driver questioning whether an input has been registered at all. Despite these usability quirks, the cabin undeniably exudes an aura of specialness and exclusivity.
The Verdict: A New Benchmark for Ferrari Supercars
The 296 GTB has definitively altered the supercar landscape. In the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, it achieved a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, narrowly missing out on outright victory by the slimmest of margins. The judges were deeply divided, reflecting the exceptional calibre of the contenders. Those who favored the Ferrari lauded its spectacular aesthetics, outrageous speed, astonishing tractability, and profound technical sophistication. The V6 engine was seen as a masterclass in downsizing, delivering a level of drama that even McLaren could learn from. While matching the Artura in sheer control, the 296 was perceived as more playful and indulgent.
One widely echoed sentiment was that the 296 GTB represents the “first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” The hybrid system, initially a point of apprehension, was praised for its seamless integration and surprisingly unobtrusive effect on the driving experience. This seamlessness was attributed, in part, to the growing familiarity with the torquey characteristics of turbocharged V8s in models like the 488 and F8. The 296 GTB is savagely quick, but its appeal extends beyond mere straight-line speed, thanks to the characterful V6 and its always-sweet soundtrack that dynamically evolves with throttle inputs.
While the hybrid integration was lauded, a cautionary tale emerged: on the final night of testing, one car was left stranded due to a depleted battery, with no apparent means of revival. Although Ferrari had provided detailed guidance on preventing such occurrences, the incident highlighted a potential vulnerability for owners. As one critic noted, “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 incident occurred after the cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering, while polarizing, was a point of discussion. The brake feel, too, didn’t consistently match the very best in class, and the tech interface faced widespread criticism for its complexity. Nevertheless, the 296 GTB possessed an irresistible seductive charm. One tester, initially skeptical of its perceived complexity, found himself “bewitched by its spooky directional changes, its astonishing damping, and looney-tune levels of grip, and the linearity of seemingly never-ending power.”
The 296 GTB has been hailed as a significant return to form for Ferrari, particularly following the somewhat less impactful SF90. Its technical sophistication and the integration of its hybrid technology feel far more natural and less intrusive. Ferrari has clearly learned from the SF90, distilling its innovations into a production model that stands as one of its finest achievements.
Price, Rivals, and the Future of Supercar Performance
When a vehicle is so heavily laden with cutting-edge technology, there’s always a risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern for some with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could feel somewhat unnerving due to its challenging driving characteristics. However, the 296 GTB is a different proposition entirely. It strikes a remarkable balance, offering a potent blend of exhilarating power and deeply engaging dynamics that redefines what a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket can be. Whispers of a more extreme Versione Speciale variant are circulating, promising even greater performance and intensity, with the crucial hope that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be retained.
It is precisely this element of natural integration and driving engagement that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously focused on when honing its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm if the rest of the vehicle isn’t expertly resolved to manage it. If Lamborghini has succeeded in its endeavor – and the remarkable capability displayed in the Revuelto offers strong grounds for optimism – then we are poised for an extraordinary twin-test battle.
Alternatively, we could contemplate a staggering 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S, which, by current standards, must be described as the ‘minnow’ of this elite group with its comparatively modest 740bhp. However, the McLaren brings a welcome lightness to the table, tipping the scales at a relatively petite 1389kg, thus offering a potent power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw engagement, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and exquisitely deft chassis differentiate it significantly from the comparatively more remote-feeling Ferrari.
The Ferrari 296 GTB is not merely a supercar; it’s a declaration of intent. It represents a profound evolution in automotive engineering, seamlessly blending blistering performance with an engaging and accessible driving experience. For those seeking the pinnacle of hybrid supercar technology, offering both electrifying speed and an intoxicating connection to the road, the 296 GTB remains an unparalleled choice.
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