The Maranello Marvel: Re-evaluating the Ferrari 296 GTB in the Age of Hybrid Supercars
As an industry veteran with a decade immersed in the high-octane world of automotive engineering and performance
vehicles, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless evolution of the supercar. The pursuit of raw power has consistently been a defining characteristic, but lately, a new paradigm has emerged: sophisticated electrification. It’s within this transformative landscape that the Ferrari 296 GTB has carved out its formidable reputation. Launched a couple of years ago, this V6 hybrid masterpiece continues to captivate, even as formidable rivals, like the much-anticipated Lamborghini Temerario with its rumored 10,000rpm, 903bhp output, loom on the horizon. The Ferrari 296 GTB review landscape is constantly shifting, and understanding this vehicle’s significance requires a deep dive beyond the headline figures.
For years, Ferrari’s mid-engined supercar lineage was synonymous with the potent, albeit increasingly complex, twin-turbo V8. The arrival of the 296 GTB in 2022 marked a bold departure. It embraced a new twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by an electric motor, ushering in an era of hybrid power for a segment that was, and still is, in the throes of significant technological transition. At its debut, the 296 GTB’s closest contemporary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a symphony of naturally aspirated V10 melody. While the Huracán excelled in visceral engagement and auditory drama, the Ferrari aimed for a different, albeit equally exhilarating, apex. It also contended with the formidable McLaren 720S, a titan of twin-turbo V8 performance. While the subsequent McLaren 750S represents an iterative refinement, focusing on its traditional strengths of power-to-weight supremacy, the Ferrari 296 GTB vs Lamborghini Temerario narrative truly ignites with the latter’s purported 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid V8. This is Lamborghini’s direct riposte to Maranello’s 819bhp electrified Berlinetta, and the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a benchmark in this escalating technological arms race.
The sheer audacity of the 296 GTB’s performance figures is undeniably arresting. Boasting an all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine intricately integrated with an electric motor, propelling the rear wheels exclusively (a distinction from the more complex SF90), the 819bhp output fundamentally challenged established supercar conventions. It’s easy to be mesmerized by such immense power, leading to inevitable contemplation of where such performance escalation might ultimately lead – and, critically, where one can realistically deploy it. However, such philosophical musings are for another discussion. The core story of the Ferrari 296 GTB hybrid supercar is its groundbreaking engineering.
This model represents a significant milestone: it’s the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to officially wear the Prancing Horse emblem (the iconic 246 GT Dino, while a V6, predated its official badge), and it’s the first to feature a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration. Furthermore, its plug-in hybrid nature affords an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the future of electrified performance. The compact V6 is strategically mounted low within a novel aluminum chassis. A critical design decision was a reduction of 50mm in the wheelbase compared to its V8 predecessors, subtly shifting the occupants’ seating position slightly forward.
The electric motor itself contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone churns out a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined output culminates in the headline-grabbing 819bhp figure. Ferrari, judiciously, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay between the V6 and electric motor. However, it’s safe to surmise that this combined torque is nothing short of prodigious. Weighing in 30kg lighter than its V8 counterparts, the V6 is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The compact battery pack, a long, slender unit, is discreetly housed behind the seats, a testament to efficient packaging.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of acronyms to describe its sophisticated electronic chassis management systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has introduced the six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. By supplanting conventional yaw sensors and working in concert with a sensor on the steering rack, it provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This intelligence is then harnessed by systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, meticulously optimizing cornering speeds while ensuring unwavering stability and driver confidence. A notable innovation stemming from this system is ABS-evo, available in RACE mode and above. Integrated with the 296’s brake-by-wire system, ABS-evo not only reduces braking distances but also enhances braking performance during trail braking into corners, a crucial technique for maximizing lap times and exhilarating spirited driving. For enthusiasts seeking the absolute pinnacle of Ferrari 296 GTB performance tuning, understanding these systems is paramount.
In a fascinating evolution of its active aerodynamics, Ferrari has deployed this technology not for drag reduction, but for outright downforce generation. The manufacturer claims a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a substantial portion, up to 100kg, generated by the deployable rear wing. The thermal management is equally impressive. Two radiators in the front handle engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers dedicated to the battery. Exhaust gases are strategically channeled underneath the car, carefully avoiding interference with the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the car’s flanks. The subtle apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to cooling the brakes, while the aerodynamically integrated wing at the roofline cleverly creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a sculpted surface. The lion’s share of the 296’s downforce is sculpted beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to airflow management, the rear diffuser, and critically, the underbody’s ground clearance to maximize the efficacy of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The initial circuit evaluations of the 296 GTB often involved the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance upgrade replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units, derived from GT racing technology, and incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements at the front, boosting front downforce by an additional 20kg. The package also incorporates more carbon fiber within the cabin, notably the door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to a total weight saving of 12kg. This figure increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Further enhancing track-day prowess, the Assetto Fiorano specification offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an alternative to the standard Pilot Sport 4S. A stylistic nod to Ferrari’s rich racing heritage, the Fiorano package can also be adorned with an exterior graphics scheme inspired by the iconic 250LM from the 1960s, adding a touch of vintage flair to this modern marvel. For those interested in Ferrari 296 GTB upgrade options, the Assetto Fiorano package is a compelling starting point.
Having had ample opportunity to interact with the 296 GTB ‘in the metal,’ I can attest to its striking visual appeal. It possesses a distinct aesthetic, a departure from anything else on the road, subtly echoing the spirit of the 250LM, even without the more audacious graphics package. The visual artistry of the new Ferrari 296 GTB is undeniable, setting it apart in a crowded segment of exotic machinery.
To set the 296 GTB in motion, a simple double-press of the lower steering wheel boss and engagement of first gear is all that’s required. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, initiating its journey on electric power alone, unless specifically overridden via the haptic driver mode selectors on the wheel. Provided the throttle application is judicious, the car will continue to glide silently on electric power, contingent upon battery charge. The driver can also explicitly select ‘EV’ mode, irrespective of powertrain demands, or opt for ‘Performance’ or ‘Qualifying’ modes. In these latter settings, both power sources coalesce, with ‘Performance’ prioritizing sustained battery replenishment alongside propulsion, while ‘Qualifying’ unleashes the absolute zenith of performance, with little regard for the battery’s state of charge.
The unexpected serenity of gliding through urban landscapes is a genuine revelation, and the sophisticated damping ensures a surprisingly comfortable ride for longer journeys. Even the luggage capacity in the ‘frunk’ is commendably practical, a notable improvement over the SF90. But the question that truly ignites the imagination is: what does it feel like when both the V6 engine and electric motor are unleashed in their full fury? The answer lies in a moment of profound revelation: plant the throttle at low revs in a high gear, and the 296 GTB simply obliterates the space ahead with ferocious acceleration. The absence of perceptible turbo lag is astonishing, momentarily making one question the very necessity of gears, such is the immediate potency on offer. Yet, there are eight gears to exploit, and an engine that willingly revs to a remarkable 8500rpm. When the 296 GTB is truly uncorked, the experience is nothing short of breathtaking.
The acceleration figures are, frankly, of the “hold on tight, nervous laughter” variety, bordering on the extreme, yet possessing a strangely addictive quality. This is a car of serious velocity. Its auditory character is equally compelling, a delightful symphony of turbocharger sounds harmoniously blended with the tuneful rasp of the V6. For those exploring performance supercar reviews, the 296 GTB consistently earns accolades for its visceral and engaging powertrain.
What truly elevates the 296 GTB beyond its astronomical power output is the exquisite responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s promise of a ‘fun to drive’ experience is not merely marketing hyperbole; it’s a tangible reality. The car feels exceptionally agile without ever becoming skittish. The steering, typically light and rapid, is imbued with a remarkable level of feedback, allowing the driver to feel precisely what the front tires are doing. While grip levels are, as expected, exceptionally high, the car’s inherent adjustability on the throttle is a constant source of delight, eliciting broad grins.
Despite a claimed dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a palpable lack of inertia throughout the chassis, encouraging the driver to work with the car, utilizing subtle inputs and reveling in its pinpoint accuracy and precision. Engaging ‘CT Off’ mode offers a fascinating gateway to exploring the car’s limits, with the reassuring knowledge that an incredibly sophisticated electronic safety net remains in place. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows for a degree of playful oversteer that one might scarcely believe possible in a vehicle boasting 819bhp. On the track, the 296 GTB possesses the uncanny ability to make even lengthy straights feel condensed. What becomes even more apparent is its razor-sharp precision. While the power is readily available to unsettle the rear at numerous points around the circuit, the 296 is 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 response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase into every corner. Rather than gently easing the car into turns and allowing load to build, the 296 GTB adopts its line instantaneously, aided by the adaptive Multimatic dampers. The hyper-quick steering complements the increased roll support offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup beautifully. Even for an experienced driver transitioning from a more conventional sports car, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are phenomenal and an endlessly joyous experience lap after lap. This dynamic prowess is a key element in Ferrari 296 GTB handling dynamics.
The interior architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. The 296 adopts much of its larger sibling’s cabin philosophy. The entirely digital interface, coupled with its touch-sensitive haptic switchgear, presents a learning curve. These controls are liberally scattered across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari stalks flanking it. Undoubtedly, the system is complex. However, to be fair, there’s a substantial amount of information and functionality to manage. The most frustrating aspect is how seemingly simple operations occasionally require a second, or even a third, attempt to register, or leave the driver uncertain whether an input has been successfully recognized. Nevertheless, it undeniably feels like a special environment in which to be. For potential buyers considering a luxury hybrid supercar interior, the 296 GTB offers a technologically advanced yet somewhat demanding experience.
The 2022 evo Car of the Year competition highlighted the intense rivalry and the exceptional caliber of the machines involved. When the scores were tallied, the McLaren Artura and the 296 GTB were separated by a razor-thin margin, with the judges themselves remarkably divided. Three narrowly favored the Ferrari, while three leaned towards the McLaren. The judges who placed the 296 GTB ahead – myself, Meaden, and Bovingdon – articulated their reasons eloquently. Jethro described it as “a spectacular car,” praising its breathtaking beauty, outrageous speed, astonishing exploitability, and remarkable technical cleverness. He noted how the V6 engine demonstrated to McLaren how to downsize while amplifying drama, and that it matched the Artura’s control yet felt more playful and indulgent.
Dickie’s verdict, which resonated with many of us, was that it was “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He added, “The hybrid system works very well and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared. Probably because we’ve already gotten used to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8 in the 488 and F8.” He continued, “The 296 is stonkingly quick, but doesn’t rely solely on speed thanks to the character of the V6, which has a soundtrack that’s always sweet and changes with throttle opening.”
The Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely lauded for its seamless integration. However, a notable incident occurred on the final night of testing, where the car was left stranded after the battery depleted with no apparent means of revival. To Ferrari’s credit, they had pre-emptively warned of this possibility and provided detailed guidance on prevention. Yet, it remains a conceivable scenario for an owner to encounter a similar predicament. As Gallagher aptly put it, “that the company who introduced individual rear-wheel steering to its cars can’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this happening is a huge oversight.” Fortunately for the 296, this event transpired after all scoring was complete.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake pedal feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the absolute pinnacle of the group. The technological interface also drew widespread criticism for its excessive complexity. However, these critiques were largely overshadowed by the 296’s irresistible seductive qualities. Vivian admitted, “I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference – but 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…”
As Peter Tomalin, ecoty 2022, summarized, “The 296 is way more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural, and far less intrusive. And Gallagher agreed: ‘Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learnt from that car and distilled it into a series production model that’s one of its very best.’” This sentiment underscores the Ferrari 296 GTB reliability and integration as key strengths.
The inherent risk with any vehicle so heavily laden with advanced technology is that it can become less than the sum of its parts. This was a sentiment we observed with the SF90, which, despite its dazzling power, left us somewhat unnerved by its challenging driving characteristics. However, the 296 GTB represents a distinct evolution. Its performance at the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, where it secured joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, demonstrated a more organic feel. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect chord, effectively redefining what a supercar in the £250,000 price bracket can achieve. Whispers of a Versione Speciale variant, codenamed for a potential release this year, suggest an even more potent iteration with heightened performance and intensity. One can only hope that the standard 296’s remarkably natural driving feel is preserved.
It is precisely this aspect of the 296 GTB’s constitution – its sublime balance and accessible dynamics – that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an almost obscene level of power for a series production supercar, and it possesses the potential to overwhelm the chassis if not meticulously resolved. If Lamborghini has succeeded in their endeavors – and the brilliance of the Revuelto offers compelling reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin-test featuring two titans of hybrid performance.
Alternatively, we could expand this to a formidable 2400bhp triple-threat by including the McLaren 750S. This British contender, with its 740bhp, might appear the ‘minnow’ in this comparison, but it brings a comparatively petite 1389kg kerb weight to the table, offering a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw engagement, ergonomic perfection, crisp steering, and deft chassis balance present a compelling counterpoint to the Ferrari’s more sophisticated, and perhaps comparatively remote, character. For those seeking new hybrid supercar releases, the landscape is more exciting than ever.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
The Ferrari 296 GTB is more than just a technological showcase; it is a testament to Ferrari’s enduring mastery of crafting emotionally engaging and dynamically brilliant supercars. As the automotive world continues its electrifying transformation, this Maranello marvel sets a profound benchmark for hybrid performance.
Are you ready to experience the future of performance firsthand? Contact your nearest authorized Ferrari dealership today to explore the extraordinary Ferrari 296 GTB and schedule your personalized demonstration drive.
