The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Redefining Supercar Performance in 2025 and Beyond
For a decade, the automotive landscape has been in a state of flux, particularly within the rarefied air of
the supercar segment. As an industry professional deeply immersed in this world for over ten years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless pursuit of power, efficiency, and technological innovation. The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB review back in 2022 signaled a paradigm shift, and even with a formidable hybrid rival from Lamborghini on the horizon, this prancing horse continues to captivate with its audacious engineering and exhilarating performance.
The Ferrari 296 GTB review represents a bold departure from Maranello’s established formula. Eschewing the multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that powered iconic models like the 488 and F8, Ferrari has embraced a new philosophy with the 296 GTB. This groundbreaking model integrates a potent twin-turbocharged V6 engine with a sophisticated electric augmentation, ushering in a new era of hybrid supercars for a segment still navigating the transition to electrification. While rivals like the McLaren 720S (and its successor, the 750S) continued to refine the twin-turbo V8 formula, and Lamborghini initially clung to its naturally aspirated V10 with the Huracán, Ferrari took a decisive leap forward.
Now, with the specter of the 903bhp, 10,000rpm Lamborghini Temerario looming large, the Ferrari 296 GTB review stands as a testament to Ferrari’s forward-thinking vision. The Temerario, a potent hybrid supercar boasting an impressive twin-turbo V8, is clearly Lamborghini’s direct riposte to the 819bhp electrified Berlinetta from Ferrari. This competitive dynamic is precisely what drives innovation and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.
The sheer potency of the Ferrari 296 GTB review is undeniable. Its all-new 120-degree, twin-turbo V6, coupled with a powerful electric motor, drives exclusively the rear wheels – a distinction from its more extreme sibling, the SF90. This configuration generates a staggering 819bhp, a figure that continues to defy convention in the supercar realm. It prompts contemplation on the ultimate trajectory of power escalation and, more practically, the scenarios in which such immense performance can be truly unleashed.
What makes the 296 GTB even more remarkable is its historical significance. It marks the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to bear the illustrious Prancing Horse emblem (the charming 246 GT Dino, while a V6, never officially wore the badge in its production era). Furthermore, it pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation and incorporates plug-in hybrid capability, offering an EV-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is nestled low within a novel aluminum chassis, with a wheelbase 50mm shorter than its V8 predecessors, and the occupants are positioned slightly further forward, contributing to a more centralized and dynamic driving experience.
The electric motor contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone delivers a breathtaking 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari wisely chooses not to quote a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the engine and electric motor, but it’s safe to assume this figure is nothing short of prodigious. The V6 unit itself is a weight-saving marvel, shedding 30kg compared to Ferrari’s V8 engines. It’s seamlessly mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, with the battery pack – a sleek, oblong structure – discreetly housed behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of acronyms denoting its advanced electronic chassis systems. For the 296, Ferrari has introduced the six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This sophisticated unit meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. It supersedes conventional yaw sensors and, in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of driver intent and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data empowers systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability. It also enables the novel ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire architecture, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also enhances performance during trail-braking into corners, a crucial technique for maximizing lap times on circuits like those found in the Los Angeles supercar driving experience or Miami exotic car rental scenarios.
In a fascinating development for this performance hybrid supercar, Ferrari has deployed its active aerodynamics technology not for drag reduction, but for generating downforce. The marque quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion of this generated by an active rear wing that deploys from the car’s tail.
The cooling system is equally ingenious. Two radiators in the front handle engine and gearbox cooling, complemented by two condensers dedicated to managing the battery’s temperature. Hot air is expertly channeled underneath the car to avoid disrupting the airflow directed to the intercoolers situated along the flanks. The subtle apertures below the headlamps are responsible for drawing air to cool the brakes, while a cleverly integrated wing at the rear of the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding air to the car’s posterior as if following a dedicated surface. The majority of the Ferrari 296 GTB performance downforce is sculpted from beneath the car, with meticulous attention paid not only to air channeling and the rear diffuser but also to the underbody’s ground clearance, optimizing the effectiveness of its downforce-generating surfaces. This level of aerodynamic refinement is crucial for maintaining control at extreme speeds, a key consideration for anyone seeking track day car rentals.
The example Ferrari 296 GTB review models we experienced on the circuit during the launch were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing and incorporates additional carbon aerodynamic elements on the nose, increasing front downforce by 20kg. The cabin benefits from further carbon fiber applications, such as the door panels, and external components, contributing to a 12kg weight saving. This can be further enhanced by an additional 3kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For the ultimate track-focused setup, the Fiorano package also allows for the selection of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Furthermore, Fiorano-equipped cars can be adorned with an exterior graphics package, drawing inspiration from the legendary 250LM of the 1960s, a visual nod that resonates deeply with collectors of classic Ferrari values.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 ‘in the metal,’ its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It presents a striking departure from convention, its design echoing the timeless elegance of the 1960s 250LM, even without the more flamboyant graphics. This visual elegance complements its cutting-edge engineering, making it a standout in the competitive luxury sports car market.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Initiating movement in the 296 GTB is as intuitive as it is exciting. A double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear, brings the car to life. It defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent departures on electric power alone, unless deliberately overridden via the intuitive haptic driver mode buttons on the steering wheel. Gentle throttle application ensures a purely electric cruise, provided the battery has sufficient charge. For those seeking absolute silence or maximum efficiency, a dedicated EV mode can be engaged, irrespective of powertrain demands. Beyond this, the Performance and Qualifying modes unleash the full potential of the combined powertrain. Performance mode balances power delivery with battery replenishment, while Qualifying mode prioritizes unadulterated performance, with battery charge taking a backseat.
The experience of gliding silently through urban landscapes is unexpectedly serene, and the damping sophistication makes it a remarkably comfortable companion for long journeys. Even the ‘frunk’ offers a reasonable luggage space, a welcome departure from the more confined SF90. However, the true magic lies in unleashing both the V6 and electric motor.
Planting the throttle at low revs in a higher gear elicits an immediate and ferocious surge of acceleration, so potent it momentarily makes you question the necessity of gears. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that eagerly spins to 8500rpm, the experience when truly unleashing the 296 is nothing short of astonishing. The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205mph – paint a picture of relentless forward momentum, a sensation that borders on exhilaratingly uncomfortable, yet is undeniably addictive. The aural accompaniment is equally captivating, with the V6’s tuneful rasp beautifully interwoven with the evocative sounds of the turbochargers, a symphony of high-performance engine sound.
What truly elevates the Ferrari 296 GTB review is the astonishing responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s promise of a truly engaging driving experience is not hyperbole. The car feels incredibly agile without being overly nervous. The steering, a hallmark of Ferrari engineering, is typically light and direct, yet imbued with a remarkable level of feedback. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s true brilliance lies in its throttle adjustability, a trait that inevitably brings a wide grin to the driver’s face.
Despite its 1470kg dry weight, the 296 feels significantly lighter. There’s a remarkable lack of inertia, encouraging the driver to work with the car, making precise inputs and reveling in its accuracy. The CT Off mode provides a reassuring safety net, allowing for spirited exploration with the knowledge that an advanced electronic guardian is overseeing proceedings. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows for playful teasing into oversteer, a feat one might not expect from a car with 819bhp. This makes it a phenomenal choice for those looking to attend supercar driving schools or participate in exotic car track days.
On the circuit, the 296 has an uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel shorter. Its precision as a scalpel is amplified. The power is readily available to break rear-end traction at numerous points around the lap, but the 296 is also exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes apparent that meticulous control of these inputs yields the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and immediacy dramatically compress the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing into turns, the 296 settles instantly, aided by its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering, which perfectly complements the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are phenomenal and a consistent source of joy.
Interior and Technology
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to those who have experienced the SF90, as it borrows heavily from that model. The fully digital interface, complemented by an array of haptic switchgear integrated into the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods, presents a learning curve. While the complexity is undeniable, it’s a consequence of the vast amount of information and functions the system manages. The occasional frustration arises when simple operations require a second press, or when it’s unclear if an input has been registered. Despite these minor ergonomic challenges, the interior exudes a palpable sense of occasion and exclusivity. For those exploring premium car interiors or seeking bespoke automotive customization, the 296 offers a compelling canvas.
Verdict and Future Prospects
The Ferrari 296 GTB review was a pivotal moment in the automotive year of 2022. In the prestigious evo Car of the Year awards, the 296 GTB and the McLaren Artura were separated by the narrowest of margins, with judges equally divided in their preferences. Those who favored the Ferrari lauded its spectacular design, outrageous speed, exploitable dynamics, and technical brilliance. Jethro, one of the judges, noted how the V6 demonstrated to McLaren how to downsize while injecting immense drama, and how the 296 matched the Artura in control but offered a more playful and indulgent character.
Dickie, another esteemed reviewer, declared it the “first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. He praised the seamless integration of the hybrid system, noting that it didn’t drastically alter the driving experience, perhaps due to the familiarity with the torquey characteristics of turbocharged V8s in previous models. He highlighted the 296’s stonking pace but emphasized that its appeal wasn’t solely based on straight-line speed, crediting the V6’s character and its always-sweet soundtrack that evolves with throttle input.
While the hybrid system’s seamlessness was widely applauded, a notable incident saw a test car stranded with a depleted battery, with no apparent means of revival. Ferrari had indeed cautioned about such possibilities and outlined preventative measures. However, the oversight, as pointed out by Gallagher, of a company renowned for pioneering individual rear-wheel steering failing to engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent such a scenario, was a significant concern. Fortunately, this occurred after the scoring for the awards was complete.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering, while divisive, was a point of discussion. The brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite reach the pinnacle set by the very best in the group, and the tech interface was a common target for criticism regarding its over-complexity. Nevertheless, the 296’s overall allure proved irresistible. Vivian, initially skeptical of the Ferrari’s perceived complexity and gratuitous differentiation, found himself “bewitched” by its uncanny ability to change direction, its phenomenal damping, its looney-tunes levels of grip, and the linearity of its seemingly endless power delivery.
The 296 GTB was seen as a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 had left some reviewers feeling somewhat underwhelmed. Peter Tomalin, reflecting on the 2022 awards, stated that the 296 was “far more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural, and far less intrusive.” He added that Ferrari had learned valuable lessons from the SF90, distilling that knowledge into a series-production model that ranks among its very best.
The risk with such technologically advanced vehicles is that they can become less than the sum of their parts. This was an observation made with the SF90, which, despite its dazzling power, could feel unnerving due to its challenging driving characteristics. However, the 296 GTB is a different proposition entirely. Its organic feel, coupled with a potent blend of power and engaging dynamics, strikes a perfect chord, redefining expectations for a supercar priced in the £250,000 range. Rumors of a ‘Versione Speciale’ variant with even greater power and intensity are circulating for the near future, and the hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably 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 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power, and if the supporting chassis and dynamics aren’t perfectly resolved to complement it, the experience could easily be compromised. Given the success of the Revuelto, there is reason for optimism that Lamborghini will have delivered a worthy contender. If they have indeed nailed it, we could be on the cusp of an epic twin test, pitting these two hybrid titans against each other – perhaps even a 2400bhp triple-threat with the McLaren 750S, which, at 740bhp, is now the comparative minnow of the class but brings a lithe 1389kg kerb weight and a potent power-to-weight ratio. However, the McLaren’s raw appeal, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and deft chassis arguably set it apart from the comparatively remote feel of the Ferrari.
The journey of the Ferrari 296 GTB review exemplifies the cutting edge of automotive engineering. As these hybrid supercars continue to evolve, offering unprecedented levels of performance and efficiency, the pursuit of the ultimate driving machine remains as thrilling as ever. Whether you’re a seasoned collector seeking the pinnacle of automotive innovation or an enthusiast dreaming of experiencing the thrill of a hybrid supercar, now is the time to explore the possibilities.
Ready to experience the future of supercar performance? Contact your nearest Ferrari dealership or a reputable exotic car specialist today to learn more about the Ferrari 296 GTB and arrange a personal viewing or test drive.

