The Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Dawn for Hybrid Supercars, Setting the Benchmark for Performance
For a decade now, the automotive landscape has been undergoing a seismic shift, driven by an insatiable appe
tite for both raw performance and environmental consciousness. As an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the rarefied air of supercar engineering and dynamics, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of these magnificent machines. The introduction of electrified powertrains has been the most significant disruption, and for a considerable period, Ferrari’s mid-engined icon, the 296 GTB, has stood as a beacon of this new era. Even with the rumble of an imminent, potent rival on the horizon, the 296 GTB continues to captivate and redefine what a hybrid supercar can achieve.
A Paradigm Shift in Maranello’s Mid-Engine Philosophy
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked an unprecedented departure from tradition for the famed Maranello marque. Forgoing the multi-award-winning, thunderous twin-turbo V8 that had powered its predecessors, Ferrari embraced a radical new direction: a potent twin-turbocharged V6 engine, augmented by an electric motor. This audacious move positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of the supercar segment, a domain that was only just beginning its transition towards comprehensive electrification.
In its initial years, the 296 GTB’s most direct competitor was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10 symphony and raw, unadulterated charisma. While the Huracán offered a compelling auditory and visceral experience, it was outgunned in sheer power by the electrified Ferrari. The McLaren 720S, with its formidable twin-turbo V8, also presented a potent challenge, trading on its supreme power-to-weight ratio. However, the landscape is rapidly shifting. The upcoming 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Temerario from Lamborghini is a direct riposte to Ferrari’s electrified Berlinetta, signaling a new arms race in the supercar arena.
The 296 GTB, with its headline-grabbing 819bhp output, undeniably packs a ferocious punch. Its architecture is a testament to innovation: an all-new, 120-degree V6 engine, nestled low within a bespoke aluminum chassis, working in concert with an electric motor powering the rear wheels exclusively – a distinction from the all-wheel-drive setup of the SF90. This hybridization doesn’t just add power; it fundamentally reshapes the supercar driving experience.
Engineering Prowess: The Heart of the 296 GTB
The sheer output figure is, of course, staggering. It prompts contemplation on the trajectory of performance escalation in supercars and, more practically, on where such prodigious power can be unleashed. But the 296 GTB is far more than just a number on a dyno sheet. It represents a historical turning point: it’s the first V6-powered Ferrari road car (barring the Dino 246 GT, which, in its era, did not carry the Prancing Horse emblem), the first to feature a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, and crucially, a plug-in hybrid with a respectable EV-only range of approximately 15 miles.
The compact V6 engine, mounted low in the chassis, benefits from a wheelbase 50mm shorter than its V8-engined predecessors, allowing occupants to sit slightly further forward, enhancing the sense of connection to the road. The electric motor contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone churns out an astonishing 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari, with characteristic discretion, avoids quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this combined output is nothing short of colossal. Weighing approximately 30kg less than a comparable V8, the V6 is mated to a sophisticated eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, oblong structure, is cleverly packaged behind the seats, minimizing its impact on the car’s center of gravity.
As expected from a Ferrari, the 296 GTB is replete with advanced electronic chassis systems. Central to this is the innovative six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS. This system meticulously monitors acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. In conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, it provides the car’s sophisticated brain with an unparalleled understanding of driver intent and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data is fed into systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, working in unison to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability. Furthermore, it enables the introduction of ABS-evo, a system that, in RACE mode and above, utilizes the brake-by-wire technology to not only shorten braking distances but also enhance performance during trail braking into corners.
Aerodynamic Mastery and Chassis Dynamics
Ferrari’s active aerodynamics technology, traditionally employed to reduce drag, takes on a new role in the 296 GTB: generating downforce. The car is quoted to produce a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with up to 100kg of this generated by an active rear wing that deploys from the car’s tail.
The thermal management system is equally impressive. Two radiators in the front manage engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers for the battery. Hot air is expertly expelled from underneath, ensuring it doesn’t compromise the airflow directed to the intercoolers located along the car’s flanks. Small apertures beneath the headlamps are dedicated to cooling the brakes, while a cleverly integrated wing at the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding air to the rear of the car with remarkable efficiency. A significant portion of the car’s downforce is sculpted from its underbody, where meticulous attention has been paid not only to airflow management and the rear diffuser but also to the precise ride height, maximizing the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
For those seeking the ultimate track-honed experience, the Assetto Fiorano pack is a compelling option. It replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing, and adds further carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the nose, boosting front downforce by an additional 20kg. The pack also incorporates more carbon fiber in the cabin (such as the door panels) and exterior, contributing to a further 12kg weight saving, which can be extended to 15kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For the truly dedicated, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires can be specified, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Assetto Fiorano variants can even be adorned with an exterior graphics package, paying homage to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
Visually, the 296 GTB is a masterpiece. Its design language is strikingly unique, paying a subtle, almost ethereal nod to the 250LM, even without the optional graphic embellishments. It’s a car that commands attention, a testament to Ferrari’s enduring ability to blend artistry with engineering.
The Driving Experience: Electrifying Performance, Uncompromised Engagement
Initiating forward motion is a simple yet satisfying process: a double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing it to pull away on electric power alone unless otherwise dictated by the driver via the haptic ‘buttons’ on the steering wheel. Gentle throttle inputs will maintain purely electric propulsion, provided sufficient battery charge is available.
Drivers can also opt to ‘force’ the car into full EV mode, overriding all other powertrain demands. Beyond this, there are distinct Performance and Qualifying modes. In Performance mode, both the V6 engine and electric motor work in tandem, with a focus on maintaining battery charge. Qualifying mode, however, unleashes the absolute maximum performance, with no regard for the battery’s state of charge.
The experience of gliding silently through urban landscapes is an unexpected delight. The damping sophistication ensures a remarkably comfortable ride, making it an ideal companion for long journeys. Even luggage space is thoughtfully considered, with a usable ‘frunk’ at the front – a welcome feature not found in the SF90. But for enthusiasts, the true revelation lies in unleashing the full combined might of the V6 and electric motor.
The immediate surge of torque available from low revs, even in a high gear, is simply astonishing. There is virtually no perceptible turbo lag, prompting a moment of disbelief at the sheer potency on offer, almost rendering the need for gear changes moot. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that revs to an exhilarating 8500rpm, the full experience is nothing short of startling. The acceleration figures (0-62mph in a mere 2.9 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 205mph) translate into a sensation of being relentlessly pressed into your seat, a blend of nervous excitement and addictive exhilaration. This is a seriously rapid automobile, and its soundtrack is equally compelling, with the V6’s tuneful rasp artfully complemented by subtle turbocharger enhancements.
Agility and Precision: A Driver’s Dream
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is its chassis responsiveness. Ferrari’s promise of a car that is ‘fun to drive’ is not an empty slogan; it’s an intrinsic characteristic. The handling is exceptionally agile without ever feeling overly nervous. The steering, a hallmark of Ferrari engineering, is typically light and rapid, yet it conveys an impressive level of road feel and detail. Grip levels are, as expected, exceptionally high, but crucially, the car remains remarkably throttle-adjustable, inviting playful engagement that elicits an irrepressible grin.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a captivating lack of inertia that encourages an intuitive, collaborative driving style, favoring small, precise inputs and rewarding the driver with remarkable accuracy. Engaging CT Off mode offers an unparalleled sense of freedom, with the reassurance that an incredibly sophisticated electronic safety net is still in place. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows for a degree of controllable oversteer that belies its immense power output.
On the racetrack, the 296 GTB has the remarkable ability to shrink even the longest straights. It reveals itself as a razor-sharp instrument. While the power is readily available to break traction at multiple points around a circuit, the car is also exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Precision in control is paramount and yields the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of a gradual buildup of load, the 296 GTB 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 those accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are a truly joyous experience, lap after lap.
The Interior: A Blend of Futurism and Familiarity
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. The predominantly digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, liberally applied across the steering wheel and the traditional Ferrari stalks, represent a significant departure. While undoubtedly complex, it’s a consequence of the sheer volume of information and functions that need to be conveyed. The occasional frustration arises when simple operations require a second attempt or when the success of a press is not immediately apparent. Nevertheless, the interior exudes a sense of occasion and exclusivity, a special place to be.
A Verdict from the Experts: evo Car of the Year 2022
The 2022 evo Car of the Year competition saw the 296 GTB emerge as a formidable contender. The judges were divided, with the Ferrari and the McLaren Artura separated by the narrowest of margins. Three judges narrowly favored the Ferrari, while three scored the McLaren ahead.
Those who championed the 296 GTB lauded its spectacular nature, its breathtaking beauty, outrageous speed, and astonishing exploitability, all underpinned by clever engineering. The V6 powertrain was seen as a masterclass in downsizing, delivering drama that rivaled larger engines. Its control was matched by the Artura, but the Ferrari offered a more playful and indulgent character.
The car was hailed as “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. The hybrid system was praised for its seamless integration, its characteristics proving less intrusive than initially feared, perhaps due to the familiarity with the torquey nature of turbocharged V8s. The 296 GTB’s blistering pace was balanced by the character of the V6, delivering a consistently sweet soundtrack that evolved with throttle application.
While the hybridisation was widely commended for its seamlessness, a notable incident saw a car left stranded after the battery depleted without an apparent means of revival. Although Ferrari had provided warnings and guidance, the oversight of not engineering a simple fail-safe was highlighted as a significant concern. Fortunately, this occurred after the scoring was complete.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel didn’t quite match the very best in class. The tech interface, too, faced criticism for its complexity. However, the overall allure of the 296 GTB was undeniable. One judge, initially skeptical of its complexity, found himself “bewitched” by its uncanny directional changes, phenomenal damping, astonishing grip, and the seemingly endless linearity of its power delivery.
In essence, the 296 GTB was seen as a significant return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 left some feeling underwhelmed. Its technical sophistication and the integration of its hybrid technology felt far more natural and less intrusive. Ferrari had clearly learned valuable lessons from the SF90, distilling that knowledge into a series production model that stands as one of its finest achievements.
Price, Rivals, and the Future of Supercar Supremacy
When a vehicle is so densely packed with cutting-edge technology, there’s always a risk that the sum of its parts might not quite equal its potential. This was a sentiment echoed by some with the SF90, which, despite its dazzling power, could feel somewhat unnerving to drive.
However, the 296 GTB is a different proposition entirely. Its organic feel and its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strike a perfect balance, redefining expectations for a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket. Whispers of a Versione Speciale variant, promising even more power and intensity, suggest that Ferrari is not resting on its laurels. The hope is that the standard car’s naturally intuitive feel will be retained.
It is precisely this aspect – the intuitive connection between driver and machine – that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized when honing its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an extraordinary amount of power, and without a perfectly resolved chassis to match, it can easily become overwhelming. If Lamborghini has achieved the level of dynamic sophistication demonstrated in the Revuelto, we are poised for an epic twin-test.
Alternatively, one could envision a three-way battle including the McLaren 750S, now the relative ‘minnow’ with ‘only’ 740bhp. Yet, its comparatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight ensures a formidable power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw character, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and deft chassis control offer a more immediate and visceral experience compared to the Ferrari’s more refined, albeit still incredibly engaging, demeanor.
The Ferrari 296 GTB has not just entered the supercar arena; it has redefined it. It stands as a testament to what is possible when innovation, heritage, and an unwavering pursuit of driving pleasure converge. For anyone seeking the pinnacle of hybrid supercar performance and exhilarating dynamics, the 296 GTB represents a truly compelling and electrifying choice.
Embark on your journey into the extraordinary. Discover the thrill of automotive innovation and experience the future of performance. Contact your nearest Ferrari dealership or specialist to arrange a private viewing and test drive of the remarkable 296 GTB. The Prancing Horse awaits.

