The Ferrari 296 GTB: Electrifying Performance and a New Era for Supercars
As an industry professional with a decade immersed in the world of high-performance automobiles, I’ve witnessed firsthand the
relentless pursuit of power and innovation that defines the supercar segment. The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked a seismic shift, not just for Ferrari, but for the entire landscape of what a supercar could be. This isn’t merely an evolution; it’s a revolution powered by a groundbreaking V6 hybrid powertrain, setting a formidable benchmark for rivals, most notably the anticipated Lamborghini Temerario. The Ferrari 296 GTB review of 2025 reveals a machine that continues to astound, even as the whispers of even more potent contenders grow louder.
For years, Ferrari’s mid-engined maestros have been synonymous with the thunderous roar of a naturally aspirated V8 or, more recently, a potent twin-turbocharged V8. The departure from this legacy with the introduction of the 296 GTB’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, augmented by an electric motor, was a bold statement of intent. It signaled Ferrari’s unequivocal embrace of electrification in a segment that, while beginning its transition, still held onto the visceral allure of combustion. At its debut, the 296 GTB faced established titans like the Lamborghini Huracán, celebrated for its soulful V10, and the McLaren 720S, a champion of twin-turbo V8 prowess. However, the 296 GTB arrived with a staggering 819 horsepower, a figure that immediately recalibrated expectations for a hybrid supercar.
Now, with the specter of the 903 horsepower, 10,000rpm Lamborghini Temerario looming, the Ferrari 296 GTB performance remains as relevant and compelling as ever. This isn’t a case of simply having more power on paper; it’s about how that power is delivered and the driving experience it crafts. The Temerario, a direct response to Maranello’s electrified offering, aims to eclipse the Italian marque with its hybrid V8, promising an even more extreme interpretation of hybrid supercar dynamics. Yet, the 296 GTB, with its unique V6 architecture and meticulously engineered hybrid system, has already carved out a distinct and highly desirable niche.
Engineering Prowess: The Heart of the 296 GTB
The 819 horsepower produced by the 296 GTB is no mere number; it’s a testament to engineering brilliance. At its core lies an all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This isn’t just any V6; it’s a compact powerhouse, designed with a “hot-vee” configuration where the turbochargers are mounted within the cylinder banks. This arrangement minimizes turbo lag and maximizes efficiency. When combined with its integrated electric motor, the V6 churns out a phenomenal 654 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque on its own. The electric motor contributes a significant 165 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, pushing the combined output to that headline-grabbing 819 horsepower. While Ferrari wisely refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the two power sources, it’s safe to assume this figure is immense.
This V6 unit is not only powerful but also remarkably lightweight, shedding 30kg compared to its V8 predecessors. This weight saving is crucial in the pursuit of agile dynamics. Mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and nestled within a new aluminum chassis, the powertrain is optimized for a thrilling and immediate response. A key innovation is the compact battery pack, ingeniously positioned behind the seats, contributing to the car’s near-perfect weight distribution. The Ferrari 296 GTB hybrid system is seamlessly integrated, offering an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles – a nod to increasing environmental consciousness without compromising the supercar ethos.
Chassis Dynamics: A Symphony of Technology
Ferrari’s commitment to cutting-edge technology is evident in the 296 GTB’s sophisticated chassis systems. Central to this is the six-axis sensor known as 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system, a significant evolution from previous iterations, measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes with exceptional precision. By replacing traditional yaw sensors and working in tandem with a sensor on the steering rack, the 6w-CDS provides the car’s electronic brain with an unparalleled understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch.
This data feeds directly into systems like the renowned Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff. The result is a car that can push the limits of cornering speed while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. A particularly noteworthy advancement is the ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the car’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, allowing drivers to carry more speed into corners. The Ferrari 296 GTB handling is a masterclass in how advanced electronics can augment, rather than detract from, the pure driving experience.
Aerodynamic Excellence: Downforce as a Force Multiplier
For the first time in a production Ferrari road car, active aerodynamics are employed not for drag reduction, but for generating substantial downforce. The 296 GTB achieves a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion of this generated by a deployable rear wing that extends from the car’s tail. This aerodynamic prowess is crucial for high-speed stability and cornering grip.
The car’s thermal management is equally impressive. Two radiators in the front handle engine and gearbox cooling, while two additional condensers manage the battery’s temperature. Hot air is strategically expelled underneath the car to avoid interfering with the airflow directed to the intercoolers situated along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps draw air to cool the brakes, and a roofline-integrated wing channels air towards the rear of the car, creating a virtual rear screen that enhances aerodynamic efficiency. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car, with meticulous attention paid to the underbody design, diffuser, and ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of these surfaces. The Ferrari 296 GTB aerodynamics represent a sophisticated blend of form and function.
The Assetto Fiorano Package: Unleashing Track-Focused Potential
For those seeking the ultimate expression of the 296 GTB’s performance, the optional Assetto Fiorano package is a must-have. This meticulously curated enhancement swaps the standard dampers for race-derived Multimatic units, similar to those found in GT racing cars. It also adds carbon-fiber aerodynamic elements to the front bumper, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg.
The pursuit of lightness continues with extensive use of carbon fiber throughout the cabin, including door panels, and on the exterior. This contributes to a further 12kg weight saving, which can be increased to 15kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. Complementing these enhancements are the optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, which replace the already highly capable standard Pilot Sport 4S. Owners can also opt for a distinctive exterior graphics package, inspired by the iconic 250LM of the 1960s, adding a touch of heritage to this modern marvel. The Ferrari 296 GTB Assetto Fiorano transforms an already exceptional car into a track-honed weapon.
Driving Dynamics: The Thrill of Electrified Performance
Getting the 296 GTB underway is an intuitive process. A double press on the steering wheel boss initiates the car, and first gear is selected. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for serene, electric-only departures unless the driver opts for otherwise via the haptic controls on the steering wheel. With judicious throttle application, the 296 can glide through urban environments on pure electric power, offering an unexpected level of civility. The ride quality is remarkably sophisticated, making it a comfortable companion for longer journeys, and the “frunk” offers a surprisingly practical luggage solution, a welcome departure from some of its more track-focused siblings.
However, the true magic of the Ferrari 296 GTB driving experience unfolds when both power sources are unleashed. A prod of the throttle at low revs in a high gear elicits an immediate, lag-free surge of acceleration that redefines potent. While the eight gears and the 8,500rpm redline of the V6 offer plenty of engagement, the combined forces of the V6 and electric motor deliver a startlingly potent acceleration that borders on the overwhelming. The 0-60mph sprint is dispatched in a blink, a sensation of relentless forward momentum accompanied by a symphony of V6 rasp and turbocharger effects. It’s an experience that is both exhilarating and undeniably addictive.
Ride and Handling: Precision, Agility, and Pure Fun
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is its uncanny responsiveness and the sheer joy it imparts. Ferrari’s claim of making the car “fun to drive” is not hyperbole; it’s a fundamental design principle. The chassis feels incredibly agile without ever becoming nervous. The steering, typically light and rapid, is also imbued with remarkable feel, providing precise feedback from the front tires. Despite the immense grip levels, the car remains remarkably throttle-adjustable, encouraging playful use of its prodigious power.
The 296 GTB belies its dry weight of 1470kg, feeling significantly lighter and more nimble than its figures suggest. There’s a delightful lack of inertia, encouraging the driver to work with the car, making small, precise inputs and reveling in its accuracy. Even with traction control systems fully engaged, the car’s innate balance allows for a surprising degree of adjustability. When the CT Off mode is selected, the electronic safety net provides reassurance, but the 296’s inherent balance allows for controlled oversteer that feels utterly natural, a feat seemingly impossible in a car with 819 horsepower.
On track, the 296 GTB shrinks even the longest straights. It’s a sharp and precise instrument, capable of breaking traction at numerous points around the circuit. However, it rewards precision with immense satisfaction. The turn-in accuracy is phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of corners. Instead of easing into turns, the 296 snaps into position instantly, its hyper-quick steering working in perfect harmony with the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are utterly captivating, making every lap an exhilarating experience.
The Interior: A Digital Frontier
The cabin of the 296 GTB shares a strong kinship with the SF90 Stradale, featuring a predominantly digital interface and haptic switchgear. While this approach imbues the interior with a futuristic ambiance, it can present a steep learning curve. The steering wheel and surrounding pods are packed with controls, and while this allows for a vast array of functions, it can sometimes lead to fumbling for the correct input. There are moments where simple operations might require a second press, or where it’s unclear if an input has been registered. Despite these usability quirks, the cabin undeniably feels like a special place to be, a high-tech sanctuary for the driving enthusiast.
Expert Verdict: A Return to Form
The Ferrari 296 GTB review from its debut year, specifically the Evo Car of the Year 2022 accolades, highlights its exceptional reception. Judges were deeply divided between the 296 GTB and its rivals, with the Ferrari narrowly edging out competitors for many. Jethro Bovingdon lauded it as “spectacular,” praising its beauty, speed, exploitable nature, and technical cleverness, stating, “Its V6 shows McLaren how to downsize but turn up the drama.” Dickie Meaden echoed this sentiment, calling it “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” and commending the seamless integration of the hybrid system, which “doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared.”
While the hybrid system’s seamlessness was widely praised, a minor hiccup involving a flat battery left one judge stranded – a rare occurrence that Ferrari had warned could happen under specific circumstances. However, this incident highlighted a perceived oversight in fail-safe engineering. Despite minor criticisms regarding the overly complex tech interface and brake feel compared to the very best, the 296 GTB’s intoxicating blend of performance, agility, and sheer desirability proved irresistible. Vivian’s quote captures the essence: “I ended up somewhat bewitched: the spooky way it changes direction; its amazing damping and looney-tunes levels of grip; the linearity of seemingly never-ending power.”
The consensus among experts was that the 296 GTB represented a significant return to form for Ferrari, a more successful endeavor than the SF90, with its technical sophistication and hybrid integration feeling “much more natural, and far less intrusive.” It was seen as a distillation of Ferrari’s learnings, resulting in one of its finest production models.
Redefining the Supercar Landscape and Future Competition
The risk with any car so technologically advanced is that it might become less than the sum of its parts. We saw this potential pitfall in the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could be unnerving in its driving characteristics. The 296 GTB, however, achieves a far more organic and engaging balance. Its blend of electrifying power and captivating dynamics strikes a perfect sweet spot, effectively redefining what a new Ferrari supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket can be. The anticipation of a more potent Versione Speciale variant later this year only amplifies excitement for further performance enhancements, with the hope that the standard 296’s natural feel is retained.
It is precisely this refined driving character that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in its upcoming hybrid Temerario. With over 900 horsepower on tap, the Temerario has the potential to overwhelm if its chassis and dynamics aren’t resolved to match its prodigious output. Given Lamborghini’s success with the Revuelto, there is strong reason to believe the Temerario will be a formidable contender. If both machines hit their mark, we could be looking at an epic supercar comparison with staggering combined power outputs. Even the McLaren 750S, now the “minnow” of this elite group with “only” 740 horsepower, presents a compelling proposition. Its raw, ergonomically sound nature, crisp steering, and deft chassis offer a distinct contrast to the more remote feel of some Italian rivals, making it a formidable competitor in its own right.
The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB: An Enduring Icon
The Ferrari 296 GTB continues to stand as a beacon of automotive innovation in 2025. Its fusion of a compact, potent V6 hybrid powertrain with an exceptionally agile and engaging chassis has cemented its place as a benchmark in the hypercar arena. While the future undoubtedly holds even more extreme contenders, the 296 GTB’s ability to deliver electrifying performance with a natural, driver-focused experience remains its enduring legacy.
If you’re captivated by the prospect of experiencing this pinnacle of automotive engineering firsthand, or if you’re considering upgrading your current supercar to embrace the future of performance, now is the ideal time to explore the possibilities. Reach out to your authorized Ferrari dealer to schedule a personalized consultation and discover how you can experience the unmatched thrill of the Ferrari 296 GTB.
