Ferrari 296 GTB 2025: Paving the Way for a New Era of Hybrid Supercars
The automotive landscape has undergone a seismic shift. For decades, the roar of the naturally aspirated V10 and the intoxicating surge of the V8 defined the pinnacle of the supercar experience. Yet, in a world increasingly focused on efficiency and technological advancement, a new generation of hybrid performance machines is emerging, challenging the established order. At the forefront of this revolution stands the Ferrari 296 GTB, a car that has redefined expectations and set a formidable benchmark for its rivals, particularly the highly anticipated Lamborghini Temerario.
A Paradigm Shift in Maranello
When the Ferrari 296 GTB made its debut in 2022, it marked a radical departure from the marque’s rich heritage. Forgoing the multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that powered the 488 and F8 Tributo, Ferrari embraced a new philosophy: the V6 hybrid. This bold move signaled a clear signal to the industry that the era of unadulterated internal combustion engines was drawing to a close, and that electric augmentation was not just a concession to regulations, but a catalyst for unprecedented performance.
The 296 GTB is not merely a hybrid Ferrari; it is a testament to technological prowess. Powered by a new 120-degree twin-turbo V6 engine and a potent electric motor, this Berlinetta produces a staggering 819 horsepower, all sent to the rear wheels. This revolutionary powertrain architecture, shared with the SF90 Stradale but optimized for a lighter, more agile chassis, instantly placed the 296 GTB in a league of its own.
The Fierce Competition: Rivals in the Hybrid Arena
The arrival of the 296 GTB ignited a firestorm of anticipation in the supercar world. Its closest competitor, the Lamborghini Huracán, maintained its naturally aspirated V10 character, offering a raw and visceral driving experience that captivated enthusiasts. However, as the Huracán entered its final years, Ferrari’s move to hybridisation seemed increasingly prescient, positioning the 296 GTB as the avant-garde choice in a segment still heavily reliant on traditional powertrains.
Yet, the most formidable challenger emerged from Maranello’s fierce rival, Lamborghini. With the upcoming launch of the 903bhp Temerario, featuring a screaming 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8, Lamborghini appears determined to answer Ferrari’s hybrid prowess with brute force and sonic drama. The prospect of a 1700bhp showdown between these two titans has the supercar world holding its breath, while the McLaren 750S, with its 740bhp lightweight package, stands ready to challenge both on the track.
Power and Performance: Redefining Supercar Metrics
The 296 GTB’s headline power figure is, without doubt, awe-inspiring. But it raises a question that has haunted supercar enthusiasts for generations: where do you actually use such performance? While the exact combined torque figure remains unconfirmed, it is safe to assume it will be immense, further enhancing the car’s ability to catapult out of corners with neck-snapping acceleration.
Under the skin, the 296 GTB is a masterpiece of engineering. The V6 unit, weighing approximately 30kg less than its V8 counterpart, is coupled to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The battery pack, a sleek, long-format structure, is positioned behind the seats, ensuring optimal weight distribution.
Technological Mastery: A Suite of Sophisticated Electronics
No Ferrari is complete without a comprehensive array of electronic chassis systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. Ferrari has developed a groundbreaking six-axis sensor, the 6w-CDS, which measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. This revolutionary sensor replaces the traditional yaw sensor and, in conjunction with the steering rack sensor, provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of driver input and grip levels.
This sophisticated system works in harmony with the Side Slip Control and active E-Diff to maximize cornering speed without compromising stability. Furthermore, the 296 introduces ABS-evo, a brake-by-wire system that shortens braking distances and improves trail braking performance in RACE mode and above.
Aerodynamics Redefined: Downforce as a Performance Tool
For the first time in its history, Ferrari has utilized active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to increase downforce. The firm quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with the deployable rear wing contributing up to 100kg of that total. This active aerodynamic philosophy ensures the car maintains optimal grip and stability through even the most demanding corners.
Cooling and Efficiency: The Intricate Dance of Heat Management
The 296 GTB’s hybrid powertrain necessitates a sophisticated cooling system. Two radiators in the front handle engine and gearbox cooling, while two additional condensers manage the battery temperature. Hot air is expelled from the underbody to avoid interfering with the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. The small apertures below the headlights are designed to draw in air for brake cooling, while the integrated rear wing creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen that channels air to the rear of the car as if guided by a surface.
The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated under the car, where Ferrari has paid meticulous attention to the height of the underbody and the effectiveness of the diffuser. This integrated approach ensures that the car remains planted even at high speeds, providing drivers with the confidence to push the limits.
Assetto Fiorano: The Track-Ready Package
Our experience with the 296 GTB was aboard the Assetto Fiorano package, a track-focused variant that replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing. This package also adds carbon aerodynamic devices to the front, increasing downforce by 20kg.
Inside, the Assetto Fiorano features more carbon fiber, including carbon door panels and exterior trim, resulting in a 12kg weight saving. This saving increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For enthusiasts seeking the ultimate track experience, the Fiorano package can also be ordered with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S tires. The package is completed with an exterior graphics package inspired by the 250LM from the 1960s.
The Driving Experience: Effortless Power and Unrivalled Agility
From the moment you step inside the 296 GTB, you are transported to a realm of uncompromising performance and exquisite craftsmanship. To start the car, simply double-press the bottom of the steering wheel boss and engage first gear. The 296 always begins in Hybrid mode, silently gliding through villages on electric power alone.
You can opt to force the car into EV mode regardless of throttle input, or select Performance and Qualifying modes, where both power sources work in tandem. In Performance mode, the system balances power output with battery charging, while in Qualifying mode, it prioritizes ultimate performance, disregarding the battery’s state of charge.
Gliding through villages is an unexpected pleasure, and the damping is so sophisticated that it’s a surprisingly comfortable place to consume miles. There’s even a reasonable luggage area in the ‘frunk’ up front, a welcome addition considering the car’s mid-engined layout. But what truly ignites the passion is the moment you unleash the full power of the 296 GTB.
The car simply bolts forward with no lag, making you question the very necessity of gears. The eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox is imperceptible, smoothly shifting through the rev range as the engine climbs towards its 8500rpm redline. The acceleration is nothing short of startling, providing a visceral experience that borders on the uncomfortable but remains utterly addictive. The 296 GTB is not just fast; it is a sensory overload, a symphony of power, speed, and precision.
Ride and Handling: A Masterclass in Chassis Engineering
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is its ride and handling. Ferrari has engineered a car that is both incredibly agile and surprisingly manageable, striking a delicate balance between raw performance and driver accessibility. The steering is typically light and fast, but it also provides a surprising level of detail, allowing drivers to feel the road beneath them.
The car’s grip levels are immense, but it is also throttle-adjustable, enabling drivers to slide the rear end with confidence and control. The 296 GTB feels much lighter than its dry weight of 1470kg would suggest, with a lack of inertia that encourages fluid, precise inputs. The CT Off mode allows drivers to take liberties with the knowledge that an intelligent electronic brain is looking after them, but even with everything switched off, the 296’s natural balance allows for playful oversteer that defies its 819bhp output.
On the track, the 296 GTB shrinks the start-finish straight, but what becomes even more evident is its surgical precision. The power is readily available to break traction at the rear at many points around the lap, but the 296 is also highly sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that precision is key to unlocking the car’s full potential.
The incredible turn-in accuracy and responsiveness dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Rather than easing the car into turns and allowing the load to build, the 296 takes set immediately on its Mult
