The Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Benchmark in Hybrid Supercar Performance
For a decade now, the pursuit of automotive perfection has been a relentless journey, especially within the hypercar arena. As an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the world of high-performance vehicles, I’ve witnessed seismic shifts, none more profound than the current embrace of electrification. While the symphony of naturally aspirated engines once reigned supreme, the advent of hybrid powertrains has ushered in an era of astonishing power and technological advancement. At the forefront of this revolution stands the Ferrari 296 GTB, a car that has not only redefined expectations but has also set a formidable benchmark for its rivals, most notably the highly anticipated Lamborghini Temerario.
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of Ferrari’s mid-engined supercar lineage. Moving away from the lauded twin-turbo V8 that powered its predecessors, Maranello introduced a groundbreaking twin-turbo V6, augmented by an electric motor. This bold decision positioned the 296 GTB as a pioneer in a segment that was, and still is, in the nascent stages of hybrid transition. In its initial launch phase, the 296 GTB faced traditional adversaries like the Lamborghini Huracán, celebrated for its emotive naturally-aspirated V10, and the formidable McLaren 720S, which relied on the brute force of its twin-turbo V8. While the McLaren 750S represents an evolutionary step, the 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Temerario from Lamborghini is a direct and ambitious riposte to Ferrari’s 819bhp electrified Berlinetta.
The sheer potency of the Ferrari 296 GTB is undeniable. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, coupled with an electric motor, drives only the rear wheels – a departure from the all-wheel-drive layout of the SF90. This configuration, delivering a combined output of 819bhp, has fundamentally challenged conventional supercar design. It’s easy to become fixated on such prodigious power figures and contemplate the ultimate extent of such performance escalation. Where does this relentless pursuit of horsepower lead, and more practically, where can such might truly be unleashed? These are questions that underscore the very nature of modern hypercars.
What makes the 296 GTB particularly significant is its status as the first V6-powered Ferrari road car. While the iconic 246 GT Dino never bore the Prancing Horse emblem during its production run, the 296 GTB proudly carries the legacy. It’s also the first Ferrari to feature a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation, positioning the turbos within the engine’s V-angle for enhanced efficiency and response. Furthermore, its plug-in hybrid system offers an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles, a testament to the evolving capabilities of electrified performance. The compact V6 engine is mounted low within a new aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase 50mm shorter than its V8-engined predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward.
The electric motor itself contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone produces a staggering 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined figure of 819bhp is the headline, but Ferrari tactfully refrains from quoting combined peak torque, likely due to the intricate interplay between the V6 and the electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this collaborative effort results in torque figures that are nothing short of colossal. In terms of weight savings, the V6 unit is approximately 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 engines. This power is channeled through an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, and the battery pack, a long, rectangular unit, is strategically placed behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without an array of sophisticated electronic chassis management systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari has developed the six-axis sensor known as 6w-CDS (Six-Way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system measures 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 with an unparalleled understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data is then used to optimize systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-diff, maximizing cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and confidence. A notable innovation is the ABS-evo system, activated in RACE mode and above. This system, integrated with the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, not only shortens braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is deploying its active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to generate downforce. The company quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with an impressive 100kg of that generated by the active rear wing. The thermal management system is equally sophisticated. Two radiators in the front manage engine and gearbox cooling, complemented by two additional condensers for battery cooling. Hot air is expelled underneath the car to avoid interfering with the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps draw air to cool the brakes, while a roofline-integrated spoiler creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a solid surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is meticulously sculpted beneath the car. Engineers have paid exceptional attention to the underbody design, focusing not only on airflow channeling and the rear diffuser but also on maintaining optimal ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of the downforce-generating surfaces.
The track-focused Assetto Fiorano package, experienced during our initial circuit drives, significantly elevates the 296 GTB’s performance envelope. It swaps the standard dampers for Multimatic units derived from GT racing and incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements on the front fascia, increasing front downforce by 20kg. The package also introduces more carbon fiber within the cabin (such as the door panels) and on the exterior, contributing to a further 12kg weight saving. This can be extended to 15kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For ultimate grip, the Assetto Fiorano specification allows for Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a substantial upgrade from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Visually, Fiorano-equipped cars can be further personalized with an exterior graphics package, a nod to the legendary 250LM of the 1960s.
In person, the Ferrari 296 GTB is an object of undeniable beauty. Its design is strikingly unique, a departure from anything else on the road, echoing the timeless elegance of the 250LM, even without the optional graphics. It possesses a captivating presence that immediately sets it apart.
To initiate motion, a double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss and engagement of first gear is required. The 296 defaults to Hybrid mode, initiating its journey on electric power alone unless deliberately overridden via the haptic driver mode controls on the steering wheel. As long as throttle inputs remain measured, it will continue solely on electric power, provided the battery has sufficient charge. Drivers can also explicitly select EV mode, overriding all powertrain demands, or choose between Performance and Qualifying modes. In these modes, both the internal combustion engine and electric motor work in tandem. Performance mode prioritizes maximum output while also aiming to maintain battery charge, whereas Qualifying mode unleashes the car’s ultimate potential, with battery state of charge being a secondary concern.
The serene experience of gliding through villages on electric power is an unexpected delight. The damping is so exquisitely tuned that it transforms the 296 GTB into a surprisingly comfortable grand tourer. Even the practicality of a reasonably sized luggage compartment in the front ‘frunk’ – a welcome improvement over the SF90 – adds to its versatility. But the question that truly ignites curiosity is: what happens when both the engine and electric motor are unleashed to their full potential?
The answer lies in the visceral surge of acceleration when the throttle is firmly depressed at low revs in a high gear. The Ferrari 296 GTB simply bolts forward with an immediate, lag-free response that makes one momentarily question the necessity of gear changes, such is its sheer potency. However, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that revs to an astonishing 8500rpm, the full unleashing of the 296’s capabilities is nothing short of breathtaking. The acceleration figures – a mere 2.9 seconds for 0-62mph and a top speed of over 205mph – translate into a sensation of relentless forward momentum that borders on overwhelming, inducing a mix of nervous laughter and an almost addictive thrill. This is a seriously rapid machine, and its soundtrack is equally compelling, a harmonious blend of turbocharger effects overlaying the sonorous V6 rasp.
The responsiveness of the 296 GTB’s chassis is truly remarkable, validating Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered for pure driving enjoyment. It feels exceptionally agile without ever becoming nervous. The steering is characteristically light and swift, yet it provides a surprising amount of feedback. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains remarkably throttle-adjustable, inspiring confidence and eliciting pure joy with every input. Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a palpable lack of inertia throughout the entire car, which encourages an intuitive and fluid driving style, rewarding small, precise inputs with exceptional accuracy and fidelity. The CT Off mode offers a comforting safety net, assuring drivers that an advanced electronic brain is constantly monitoring and assisting, yet even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows for delightful teasing into oversteer, a feat one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp.
On the racetrack, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses the uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel compressed. Its sharp, precise nature becomes readily apparent. While the power is more than sufficient to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around a lap, the 296 is exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that precision is paramount, leading to the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and responsiveness are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing into turns and allowing loads to build, the 296 adopts its line instantly, aided by the Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which perfectly complements the enhanced body control offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more mature sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are nothing short of a revelation, offering an exhilarating experience lap after lap.
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90, as it shares a significant number of design elements. However, the fully digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, spread across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari stalks, can present a learning curve. While undeniably complex, it aims to convey a vast amount of information. The primary frustration arises when simple operations require multiple attempts to register, or when the driver is uncertain whether an input has been successful. Nevertheless, the cabin undeniably exudes a sense of occasion and exclusivity.
The evo Car of the Year 2022 verdict highlighted the intense competition and the exceptional quality of the contenders. “Now it gets serious,” was the sentiment. The scores between the McLaren Artura and the 296 GTB were incredibly close, with judges split in their preferences. Those who favored the Ferrari, including myself, lauded its spectacular nature, breathtaking beauty, outrageous speed, astonishing exploitability, and ingenious technical sophistication. Jethro enthused, “Its V6 shows McLaren how to downsize but turn up the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control but feels a bit more playful and indulgent.”
Dickie’s assessment, echoed by many, declared it “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further commented, “The hybrid system works very well, and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared. Probably because we’ve already got used to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8 in the 488 and F8. 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 seamless integration of the Ferrari’s hybrid system received widespread praise. However, a notable incident where a depleted battery left the car stranded served as a cautionary tale. While Ferrari had pre-emptively warned of such possibilities and provided guidance, the inability of a company that pioneered individual rear-wheel steering to engineer a simple fail-safe was flagged as a significant oversight. Fortunately for the 296, this occurred after the scoring was completed. Despite this, opinions on Ferrari’s signature super-quick steering were divided, and brake feel didn’t quite match the very best in the group. The tech interface also drew criticism for its complexity. Yet, the 296 remained irresistibly seductive. Vivian confessed, “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…”
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a triumphant return to form for the marque, a significant step forward from the SF90, which had left some reviewers feeling underwhelmed. As Sutcliffe noted, “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.” Gallagher concurred, stating, “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.”
When a vehicle is so heavily imbued with cutting-edge technology, there’s always a risk that it might underperform relative to its constituent parts. This was an observation made with the SF90, which, despite its dazzling power, felt somewhat unapproachable in its driving characteristics. However, the 296 GTB is a different proposition entirely. Its harmonious blend of power and dynamic engagement strikes a perfect chord, effectively redefining what a supercar priced in the £250,000 bracket can achieve. A more potent Versione Speciale variant is anticipated, promising even greater performance and intensity. The hope remains that the standard 296’s remarkably natural and engaging feel will be preserved.
It is precisely this aspect – the natural feel and profound engagement – that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously focused on with its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series-production supercar, a figure that could easily overwhelm if the rest of the car isn’t perfectly resolved to manage it. If Lamborghini has indeed achieved that delicate balance, as evidenced by their success with the Revuelto, then we are poised for an epic head-to-head comparison.
Alternatively, we could envision a colossal 2400bhp triple threat, incorporating the McLaren 750S – now almost comically described as the ‘minnow’ of this hyper-performance class with its ‘mere’ 740bhp. However, the McLaren compensates with a comparatively petite kerb weight of 1389kg, resulting in a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw character, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and exquisite chassis control certainly distinguish it against the comparatively more insulated Ferrari.
For those captivated by the pinnacle of automotive engineering and the thrill of hybrid hypercars, the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a testament to innovation and passion. If you’re ready to experience the future of performance, explore the latest Ferrari models or discuss bespoke performance upgrades with a trusted specialist.
