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The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB: A Masterclass in V6 Hybrid Engineering and Precision Dynamics
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB represented a paradigm shift inMar anello’s mid-engined supercar lineage. Launched in 2022, it marked the definitive transition away from the highly celebrated twin-turbo V8 that had powered benchmark models for years, instead embracing a revolutionary V6 hybrid architecture. At the time, this was a bold gamble, as the luxury supercar segment was only beginning its migration toward electrification. However, the 296 GTB proved that this formula was not just viable but transformative, setting a new benchmark for technological innovation and driver engagement that rivals struggled to match.
In its debut phase, the 296 GTB navigated a competitive landscape dominated by the naturally aspirated Lamborghini Huracán, a car defined by its soulful, high-revving V10 and primal soundtrack. On the other end of the spectrum stood the formidable McLaren 720S, a titan of twin-turbo V8 power and track-focused agility. While the McLaren 750S refined this successful formula, the forthcoming 903bhp, 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8 hybrid Lamborghini Temerario posed a direct and aggressive challenge to Maranello’s 819bhp electrified Berlinetta.
The Ferrari 296 GTB indisputably delivered jaw-dropping performance. Powered by an all-new 120-degree, twin-turbocharged V6 engine integrated with an electric motor that exclusively drives the rear wheels—unlike the SF90’s more complex setup—the 819bhp output was a staggering achievement. It didn’t merely match its rivals; it redefined the segment, compelling competitors to rethink their engineering philosophies.
It is easy to be mesmerized by such formidable power figures and ponder the limits of escalation in the hypercar space—a question seemingly being addressed by rivals like Lamborghini. But where this incredible performance can be exploited remains a subject of debate, as many owners will rarely approach the true apex of the 296’s potential.
The 296 GTB holds a significant place in Ferrari’s history. It is the first V6-powered road car to bear the Prancing Horse badge (the earlier, delightful 246 GT Dino never wore the emblem during its production run). It also pioneers the ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger arrangement, a configuration where the exhaust manifolds are positioned within the vee of the cylinders, significantly shortening the path to the turbochargers. This innovative design enhances efficiency and throttle response. Furthermore, the 296 GTB is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), offering an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles. This allows for quiet, emissions-free driving in urban environments while retaining the performance of a traditional V12 supercar when required.
The 120-degree V6 engine is mounted exceptionally low within a newly developed aluminium chassis. This strategic placement lowers the center of gravity, directly contributing to the car’s sensational handling characteristics. Compared to previous V8-powered models, the wheelbase has been reduced by 50mm, further enhancing agility and responsiveness. The occupants sit slightly further forward, creating a more focused and immersive cockpit environment.
The electric motor contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque to the powertrain. The V6 alone produces an astonishing 654bhp and 546lb ft of torque. While Ferrari strategically omits a combined peak torque figure—likely due to the complex interplay between the gasoline engine and the electric motor—it is safe to assume the peak torque remains immense. In terms of weight saving, the V6 unit is approximately 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s equivalent V8 engines. This weight reduction is crucial for performance and handling balance. The V6 is coupled to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, known for its lightning-fast shifts. The battery pack, a long, rectangular structure, is strategically positioned behind the seats, maintaining a balanced weight distribution.
Advanced Aerodynamics and Chassis Control
Any new Ferrari is defined by its suite of acronyms, denoting sophisticated electronic chassis systems designed to maximize performance while maintaining composure. For the 296, Ferrari developed the Six-Way Chassis Dynamic Sensor, or 6w-CDS. This advanced six-axis sensor measures acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes with unprecedented accuracy.
The 6w-CDS replaces traditional yaw sensors, and when combined with the sensor mounted on the steering rack, it provides the car with a comprehensive understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data feeds into systems like Side Slip Control (SSC) and the active E-Diff, which work in concert to maximize cornering speeds without compromising stability. It also enables the innovative ABS-evo system, introduced in RACE mode and higher. Utilizing the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo significantly shortens braking distances and improves stopping control during trail braking—the art of braking while turning—allowing drivers to carry more speed deep into corners.
Significantly, Ferrari has leveraged its active aerodynamics technology not to reduce drag, as is conventional, but to increase downforce. The car generates a claimed 360kg of downforce at 155mph. A significant portion of this downforce—up to 100kg—is generated by a deployable rear wing that elegantly emerges from the rear decklid when needed, enhancing high-speed stability.
Aerodynamic efficiency is paramount in such a high-performance vehicle. The 296 GTB features two radiators in the nose dedicated to cooling the engine and gearbox, alongside two condensers for the hybrid battery system. Hot air is expelled beneath the car to avoid interfering with the incoming airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. The sleek apertures located beneath the headlamps are designed to draw in air for cooling the brakes. The roofline integrates a subtle rear wing, which acts as a ‘virtual’ rear screen, effectively channeling air to the rear of the car as if guided by a smooth physical surface.
The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from the underbody. Ferrari’s engineers paid meticulous attention to the underbody design, not only optimizing airflow channels and the rear diffuser but also carefully managing the underbody height. This precise control over the car’s vertical position ensures the downforce-generating surfaces operate at maximum efficiency.
The Assetto Fiorano Experience
The 296 GTB models we sampled during the launch were fitted with the Assetto Fiorano pack. This performance-enhancing package replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing technology. It also adds further carbon aerodynamic devices to the front end, increasing frontal downforce by an additional 20kg.
Inside the cabin, the Assetto Fiorano package features more carbon fiber components, such as the door panels, contributing to an overall weight saving of 12kg. This weight reduction increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is selected. For drivers seeking the ultimate level of grip and track performance, the Fiorano pack can be specified with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The Fiorano variant is also available with an exterior graphics package inspired by the iconic 250LM racer from the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB in production form, we must acknowledge its stunning aesthetics. It is a visually distinctive car, defying conventional supercar design norms. It bears a spiritual resemblance to the 250LM of the 1960s, even without the polarizing graphic livery. This aesthetic appeal is a significant departure from the aggressive wedge shapes that dominated supercars for decades, signaling a return to sensuous, organic design philosophy.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Initiating movement in the 296 GTB is a refined experience. A double press on the bottom of the steering wheel boss and then engaging first gear is all that is required. The Ferrari 296 GTB default mode is Hybrid, meaning it will pull away using electric power alone unless the driver overrides it. This is managed via the intuitive haptic driver mode ‘buttons’ located on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as excessive throttle input is avoided, the car will continue on electric power, subject to battery charge levels.
The driver can choose to ‘force’ the car into EV mode, overriding any demands from the powertrain. Alternatively, there are Performance and Qualifying modes. In these modes, both power sources work in harmony. Performance mode is designed to optimize power delivery while ensuring the battery remains sufficiently charged. Qualifying mode, as the name suggests, is dedicated to achieving maximum performance, regardless of the battery’s state of charge.
Gliding quietly through villages is an unexpectedly serene experience. The damping is remarkably sophisticated, making the 296 GTB a surprisingly comfortable vehicle for long-distance touring. There is even a reasonable luggage capacity in the ‘frunk’ up front, offering a practical advantage over the SF90. But what truly defines this Ferrari model is the experience of unleashing both engine and electric motor in full force.
The immediate response when planting the throttle at low revs in a high gear is astonishing. The 296 accelerates ferociously, with zero turbo lag, making you question the necessity of gears. Still, there are eight gears available, and the engine revs to 8500
