The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Redefining Supercar Dynamics
For over a decade, the automotive world has been captivated by the evolution of the supercar. As an industry professional with ten years immersed in this thrilling domain, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless pursuit of performance, innovation, and, more recently, the imperative shift towards electrification. Among the titans of this segment, Ferrari has consistently set benchmarks, and the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a testament to their forward-thinking vision. This isn’t merely an evolution; it’s a bold reimagining of what a mid-engined Maranello masterpiece can be, especially as rivals like the upcoming Lamborghini Temerario loom large, promising an electrifying clash of titans in the high-performance hybrid supercar arena.
The arrival of the 296 GTB in 2022 marked a significant departure from Ferrari’s established formula. Forgoing the much-lauded, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8, the engineers in Maranello opted for a groundbreaking twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by an electric motor. This bold move propelled the 296 GTB into a higher echelon of the supercar segment, a tier still navigating the complex transition to hybrid powertrains.
In its initial phase, the 296 GTB faced established adversaries. The Lamborghini Huracán, with its evocative naturally-aspirated V10, offered a compelling, albeit less powerful, counterpoint, celebrated for its raw acoustic charm. Then there was the formidable McLaren 720S, a V8 powerhouse focused on sheer power-to-weight superiority. While the subsequent McLaren 750S builds upon that proven foundation, the 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid beast that is the Lamborghini Temerario, is clearly Maranello’s direct challenge, a formidable opponent poised to directly confront the 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta.
The 296 GTB, however, boasts truly sensational firepower. Its all-new 120-degree, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, paired with an electric motor, drives the rear wheels exclusively – a departure from the SF90 Stradale’s four-wheel-drive setup. The combined output of 819bhp is a figure that fundamentally alters the supercar landscape, challenging established conventions with its sheer audacity.
It’s easy to be mesmerized by such an astronomical power figure, leading to contemplation about the ultimate limits of such performance escalation – a question the 296 GTB certainly prompts, and one the Temerario will undoubtedly amplify. Furthermore, the practical application of such velocity in the real world is a persistent, yet fascinating, debate.
What sets the 296 GTB apart as a truly significant machine is its pioneering spirit. It’s the very first V6-powered Ferrari road car – the illustrious 246 GT Dino, while a beloved icon, never bore the Prancing Horse emblem during its production run. It also heralds the first application of a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger arrangement in a road-going Ferrari, and its plug-in hybrid capability offers a commendable EV-only range of approximately 15 miles, adding a layer of versatility previously unseen. The compact V6 is strategically positioned low within a newly engineered aluminum chassis. To optimize weight distribution and handling dynamics, the wheelbase has been reduced by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants seated slightly further forward.
The electric motor itself contributes a potent 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque. The V6 combustion engine, in isolation, unleashes an astonishing 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari wisely chooses not to publish a combined peak torque figure, a decision likely rooted in the complex interplay between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. However, it is safe to assume the resulting torque is nothing short of prodigious. Notably, this V6 powertrain contributes a weight saving of 30kg over Ferrari’s V8 units, and it’s seamlessly mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, elongated structure, resides neatly behind the occupants.
No Ferrari would be complete without a sophisticated suite of electronic chassis management systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has introduced its innovative six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced unit meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. It effectively supersedes traditional yaw sensors, and in conjunction with a sensor integrated into the steering rack, provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of driver intent and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data feeds into systems like Side Slip Control and the active Electronic Differential (E-Diff), maximizing cornering speeds while upholding unwavering stability and driver confidence. Furthermore, it enables a novel system christened ABS-evo. Activated in RACE mode and above, this technology, leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire system, not only shortens braking distances but crucially enhances braking performance during aggressive trail-braking maneuvers into corners.
In a fascinating evolution of its aerodynamic philosophy, Ferrari is now deploying its active aerodynamics not for drag reduction, but to actively generate downforce. The manufacturer quotes a substantial 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion of this, up to 100kg, being produced by the deployable rear wing.
The cooling architecture of the 296 GTB is a masterpiece of thermal management. Two primary radiators located in the front fascia are dedicated to engine and gearbox cooling, complemented by two additional condensers responsible for managing battery temperature. Hot air is efficiently expelled from the underbody, meticulously routed to avoid interference with the airflow directed to the intercoolers positioned along the flanks of the vehicle. The discreet apertures beneath the headlamps are ingeniously designed to channel air for brake cooling. Meanwhile, a wing integrated into the roofline plays a crucial role in creating a “virtual” rear screen, artfully guiding airflow to the car’s posterior as if directed by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is cultivated beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid not only to the air channeling and the rear diffuser but also to optimizing the underbody’s ground clearance to enhance the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The limited circuits on which we sampled the 296 GTB were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units, derived directly from GT racing technology. It also introduces further carbon aerodynamic enhancements to the front end, contributing an additional 20kg of downforce. The cabin sees a judicious application of carbon fiber, including the door panels, and additional carbon elements grace the exterior. These weight-saving measures contribute to an overall reduction of 12kg, a figure that can extend to 15kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For those seeking the ultimate in track-focused grip, the Fiorano package also offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an upgrade from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Furthermore, Fiorano-spec cars can be personalized with an exterior graphics package, artfully echoing the iconic liveries seen on the legendary 250LM of the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time appreciating the 296 GTB in person, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It possesses a distinct visual identity, setting it apart from anything else on the road. Even without the distinctive graphics package, its silhouette subtly evokes the spirit of the 1960s 250LM, a timeless design that continues to resonate.
Performance and Acceleration Prowess
Initiating motion in the 296 GTB is as simple as a double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by engaging first gear. The vehicle defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing it to silently glide away on electric power alone, unless otherwise directed via the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors located on the left side of the steering wheel boss. Provided you exercise restraint with the throttle, the car will continue its serene electric journey, contingent, of course, on sufficient battery charge.
Owners can also elect to explicitly engage EV mode, irrespective of the demands placed upon the powertrain. Beyond this, distinct Performance and Qualifying modes offer further calibration. In both of these, the hybrid system operates in tandem. The Performance mode prioritizes sustained power delivery while also ensuring the battery is replenished. Conversely, the Qualifying mode unleashes the vehicle’s absolute maximum performance, with less concern for the battery’s state of charge.
The unexpected serenity of gliding through quiet villages is a genuinely delightful experience. The damping calibration is remarkably sophisticated, rendering the cabin a surprisingly comfortable sanctuary for covering long distances. The inclusion of a reasonably sized luggage compartment in the front ‘frunk’ – a feature notably absent in the SF90 – further enhances practicality. However, the question that truly ignites our curiosity, yours and mine, is the sensation when both the combustion engine and electric motor are unleashed to their full potential.
The answer lies in the vehicle’s response when the throttle is firmly planted at low revs in a higher gear. The 296 GTB simply surges forward with an almost instantaneous surge of acceleration, no hint of lag, causing one to momentarily question the necessity of gears given its sheer potency. Nevertheless, there are eight distinct gears to exploit, and an engine that happily revs to an exhilarating 8500rpm. When the 296 GTB is truly uncorked, the effect is nothing short of astonishing.
As the performance figures suggest – a 0-62mph sprint achievable in a mere 2.9 seconds and a top speed approaching 205mph – the rate of acceleration is the kind that elicits a visceral, hold-on-tight reaction, bordering on overwhelming, yet undeniably addictive. This is a supercar of exceptional rapidity. And the auditory experience is equally captivating, with a rich blend of turbocharger induction sounds harmonizing with the melodious rasp of the V6.
Ride Dynamics and Handling Agility
What truly distinguishes the 296 GTB is the remarkable responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered for pure driving enjoyment is emphatically validated. It feels exceptionally agile without ever crossing the line into nervousness. The steering, a hallmark of Ferrari engineering, is characteristically light and swift, yet it also delivers nuanced feedback. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains wonderfully throttle-adjustable, capable of eliciting an irrepressible grin from even the most jaded driver.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. This perceived lightness, coupled with a remarkable lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, encourages an intuitive and collaborative driving style. Small, precise inputs are met with immediate and accurate responses, allowing the driver to revel in the car’s exceptional accuracy and precision. Engaging the CT Off mode provides an astonishing degree of freedom, with the reassurance that an electronic guardian, far more intelligent than any human, is subtly monitoring your actions. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the inherent balance of the 296 allows for an almost uncanny ability to be coaxed into controlled oversteer, a feat seemingly improbable in a car with 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the 296 GTB possesses the uncanny ability to seemingly compress even the longest start-finish straight. What becomes even more apparent is its precision as a driving instrument. The immense power is readily available to break traction at the rear in numerous corners, yet the 296 is acutely sensitive to both braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes apparent that precision with the controls yields the most significant rewards. The turn-in accuracy and responsiveness are truly incredible, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build gradually, the 296 settles immediately into its apex, its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering working in perfect synergy with the enhanced body control provided by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are nothing short of phenomenal, offering a consistently joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior Ambiance and Technological Integration
The interior architecture of the 296 GTB will feel immediately familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90 Stradale, as the two vehicles share a significant design lineage. The fully digital interface, coupled with its accompanying haptic switchgear, presents a steep learning curve. These controls are liberally distributed across the steering wheel and within traditional Ferrari pods flanking it.
While undoubtedly complex, it’s important to acknowledge the sheer volume of information and functions the system needs to convey. The primary frustration stems from the occasional need for a secondary press to register simple operations, or an inherent ambiguity regarding whether a press has been successfully acknowledged. Nevertheless, the cabin undeniably exudes an aura of exclusivity and specialness.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict: A Masterclass in Hybrid Supercar Design
“Now, things get serious,” proclaimed the judges at evo. “When the scores were tallied, there was barely a hair’s breadth separating the McLaren Artura and the 296 GTB. The judging panel was equally divided; three of us narrowly favored the Ferrari, while three scored the McLaren slightly higher.”
The triumvirate who placed the 296 GTB at the pinnacle included myself, along with fellow road testers Meaden and Bovingdon. “What a spectacular car,” enthused Jethro Bovingdon. “Beautiful to behold, outrageously fast, astonishingly exploitable, and technically brilliant. Its V6 powertrain demonstrates to McLaren how to downsize effectively while amplifying the drama. It matches the Artura in terms of sheer control but possesses a more playful and indulgent character.”
Richard Meaden declared it, “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. “The hybrid system is exceptionally well integrated,” he continued, “and surprisingly, it doesn’t fundamentally alter the driving experience as much as I had anticipated. This is likely due to our increasing familiarity with the torquey characteristics of turbocharged V8s in cars like the 488 and F8. The 296 is astonishingly quick, but its appeal extends beyond mere speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which delivers a consistently sweet soundtrack that dynamically adapts to throttle input.”
While the Ferrari’s hybridization was widely lauded for its seamless integration, a notable incident occurred on the final night of testing. The car was unexpectedly rendered immobile after the battery depleted with no apparent method for recovery. Ferrari had, to their credit, proactively warned of this possibility and provided clear guidelines to mitigate such occurrences. However, the scenario of an owner finding themselves similarly stranded is not entirely inconceivable. As Jack Gallagher astutely observed, “It is a significant oversight that the very company which pioneered individual rear-wheel steering technology in its vehicles cannot engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent such an event.” Fortunately for the 296 GTB, this incident transpired after all scoring had been completed.
“Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering proved divisive,” noted the judges. “The brake pedal feel didn’t quite match the very best in the group, and the technology interface was broadly criticized for its excessive complexity. However, despite these points, the 296 was irresistibly seductive.” Vivian Smith confessed, “I initially believed I wouldn’t particularly care for the Ferrari – perhaps too complex, with gratuitous points of differentiation. But I found myself somewhat bewitched: its uncanny ability to change direction, its astonishing damping, and its looney-tunes levels of grip, coupled with the linearity of seemingly endless power…”
The 296 GTB represents a remarkable return to form for Ferrari, a stark contrast to the SF90 Stradale, which left many feeling somewhat underwhelmed the previous year. As Henry Catchpole remarked, “The 296 is a far more successful endeavor because its technical sophistication, and particularly the integration of its hybrid technology, feels far more natural and considerably less intrusive.” Gregor Joachims readily agreed, “Ferrari has extracted invaluable lessons from the SF90, learning from that car and distilling that knowledge into a series-production model that stands as one of its very finest.” – Peter Tomalin, evo Car of the Year 2022.
Pricing and Competitive Landscape
In an era where vehicles are increasingly laden with advanced technology, there’s always a palpable risk of the sum being less than its individual parts. This was a concern we observed with the SF90 Stradale, which, while dazzling with its immense power, could occasionally feel unnerving due to its less predictable driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB operates on an entirely different plane. As our evaluation at evo Car of the Year 2022 (where it secured a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura) demonstrated, it possesses a far more organic and cohesive feel. Its masterful blend of raw power and engaging dynamics strikes a truly exceptional sweet spot, effectively redefining the expectations for a supercar in the £250,000 price bracket. A Versione Speciale variant, a project code-named internally, is anticipated this year, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. Our fervent hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural and intuitive feel is meticulously preserved.
It is precisely this fundamental aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. With over 900bhp, it represents an almost obscene level of power for a series-production supercar. Without a chassis and dynamics meticulously resolved to manage such forces, this power could easily become a liability. If Lamborghini has achieved the same level of dynamic prowess evident in the Revuelto, then we are poised for an absolutely epic twin-test, potentially featuring a combined output of 1700bhp!
Alternatively, we could elevate this to a 2400bhp triple threat by including the McLaren 750S. This model, by comparison, now appears almost diminutive in this hypercar segment, producing a mere 740bhp. However, as previously noted, it brings a relatively lithe kerb weight of 1389kg to the table, resulting in a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and exquisitely balanced chassis undeniably set it apart from the comparatively more detached Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: V6, 2992cc, twin-turbocharged, augmented by an electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, with active Electronic Differential
Power Output: 819bhp (combined) @ 8000rpm
Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) / 566bhp per ton
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: Starting from £250,000+
The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB is more than just a car; it’s a bold statement about the future of performance motoring. Its innovative hybrid powertrain, coupled with an extraordinarily engaging chassis, sets a new benchmark. As the automotive landscape continues its rapid evolution, the 296 GTB stands as a shining example of what’s possible when passion, engineering prowess, and a commitment to pushing boundaries converge.
Are you ready to experience the future of supercar performance? Contact your local Ferrari dealership today to learn more about the 296 GTB and schedule your personal viewing and test drive.
