Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Challenging Supercar Conventions
As a seasoned observer of the automotive landscape for over a decade, particularly within the rarefied strata of supercar perform
ance, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless pursuit of power and innovation. The automotive world, especially at the pinnacle of performance, is a perpetual arms race. For years, the V8 has reigned supreme, a symphony of combustion delivering visceral thrills. Yet, the winds of change, driven by environmental consciousness and an insatiable hunger for more, have ushered in a new era – the era of hybridization. And at the vanguard of this revolution stands the Ferrari 296 GTB, a car that not only embraces electrification but wields it with such masterful integration that it redefines the very essence of a supercar.
For enthusiasts and industry insiders alike, the arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked an unprecedented shift for Maranello’s mid-engined icon. Departing from the multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that had powered generations of Prancing Horses, the 296 GTB embraced a cutting-edge twin-turbo V6, augmented by an electric motor. This bold move positioned the 296 GTB as a vanguard in a supercar segment still largely navigating the transition to hybrid power. It wasn’t just a new engine; it was a philosophical statement, a declaration that raw performance and electrified efficiency could coexist, and indeed, amplify each other.
When the 296 GTB first emerged, its most direct rival was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10’s intoxicating charisma and aural assault. While the Huracán offered a purer, more traditional supercar experience, it was outgunned in sheer power. The McLaren 720S, with its potent twin-turbo V8, represented another formidable competitor, a benchmark in power-to-weight supremacy. However, the horizon has been continuously redrawn. The whispers, and now the roar, of the Lamborghini Temerario – a 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid marvel – signal Lamborghini’s direct riposte to Maranello’s electrified Berlinetta. This evolving rivalry, the push and pull between these automotive titans, is precisely what keeps the supercar segment so electrifying.
The 296 GTB, however, doesn’t just compete; it redefines. Its 819bhp combined output, a figure that still boggles the mind, is a testament to its groundbreaking powertrain. This isn’t merely an addition of electric power; it’s a holistic integration. The V6 engine, a marvel of engineering in its own right, is a brand-new 120-degree, twin-turbo unit. Coupled with an electric motor, it powers the rear wheels exclusively, a departure from the all-wheel-drive configuration of the SF90 Stradale. This focus on rear-wheel-drive dynamics, combined with the hybrid system, allows the 296 GTB to shatter previous supercar conventions. The question of where this power escalation will ultimately lead is a fascinating one, but for now, the 296 GTB offers a glimpse into a thrilling future.
Beyond its headline power figures, the 296 GTB carries significant historical weight. It is the first V6-powered Ferrari road car, a lineage tracing back to the understated brilliance of the 246 GT Dino (though the Dino never bore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era). It also pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation, a design choice that enhances packaging and responsiveness. Furthermore, its plug-in hybrid nature grants it an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles, offering a tantalizing blend of silent cruising and exhilarating performance. The V6 is nestled low within a bespoke aluminum chassis, with a wheelbase 50mm shorter than its V8 predecessors, positioning the occupants slightly further forward for an even more engaging driving experience.
The electric motor contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 alone unleashes a staggering 654bhp and 546 lb-ft. Ferrari, wisely, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, acknowledging the complex interplay between the engine and electric motor. However, it’s safe to say that the resultant torque is nothing short of prodigious. Impressively, the V6 unit itself is 30kg lighter than a comparable Ferrari V8, and it’s mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, slender structure, is ingeniously located behind the seats, contributing to the car’s balanced weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. Ferrari’s commitment to cutting-edge technology is evident in the development of its six-axis sensor, the 6w-CDS. This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing conventional yaw sensors. In conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, it provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of driver input and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data is then fed into systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, optimizing cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and confidence. A notable enhancement is the introduction of ABS-evo, available in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296 GTB’s brake-by-wire system, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also refines braking performance during trail braking into corners, a technique that demands immense precision and control.
Ferrari’s active aerodynamics technology also takes a significant step forward with the 296 GTB. For the first time, its application is focused on generating downforce rather than reducing drag. The firm quotes an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a substantial 100kg of that figure attributable to the deployable rear wing. The thermal management system is equally sophisticated, featuring two radiators in the nose for engine and gearbox cooling, and two additional condensers dedicated to cooling the battery. Hot air is expelled beneath the car, strategically routed to avoid interfering with the airflow directed towards the intercoolers along the flanks. Smaller apertures beneath the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a wing integrated into the roofline creates a “virtual” rear screen, channeling air towards the rear of the car with remarkable efficiency. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car, with meticulous attention paid not only to air channeling and the rear diffuser but also to the underbody’s ground clearance, maximizing the effectiveness of its downforce-generating surfaces.
During my initial experiences with the 296 GTB on the circuit, all test cars were equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This comprehensive upgrade replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing, and adds further carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The package also incorporates more carbon fiber within the cabin, such as the door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to an overall weight saving of 12kg. Opting for the Lexan rear engine cover shaves off another 3kg. Furthermore, the Assetto Fiorano specification opens the door to specifying Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a significant upgrade from the standard Pilot Sport 4S. An exterior graphics package, inspired by the iconic 250LM from the 1960s, further enhances the visual appeal of these track-focused machines.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB in person, I can attest to its stunning visual presence. It’s a design that stands apart, a modern interpretation that subtly nods to its illustrious heritage, even without the optional graphics. The aesthetic appeal alone is enough to captivate, but it’s the underlying engineering that truly sets it apart.
The performance of the Ferrari 296 GTB is, quite frankly, electrifying. To initiate propulsion, a double-press of the bottom of the steering wheel boss awakens the powertrain, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will glide away on electric power alone unless commanded otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode selectors on the steering wheel. As long as the battery retains a charge and throttle inputs are measured, silent, emission-free travel is possible. For those who desire it, a dedicated ‘EV’ mode can be selected, irrespective of powertrain demands. Alternatively, Performance and Qualifying modes offer progressively higher levels of engagement. In Performance mode, both power sources collaborate with an emphasis on maintaining battery charge, while Qualifying mode unleashes the full, unadulterated fury of the hybrid powertrain, with battery charge becoming a secondary concern.
The experience of gliding silently through urban landscapes is an unexpected pleasure. The damping sophistication ensures a remarkably comfortable ride, making it a surprisingly capable long-distance cruiser. Even the practicality of a reasonably sized ‘frunk’ for luggage, a welcome addition absent in the SF90, contributes to its versatility. But the question that truly ignites curiosity is: what does it feel like when both the V6 and electric motor are unleashed in their full glory?
The answer lies in the sensation when you firmly plant the throttle from low revs in a high gear: the 296 GTB simply surges forward with a complete absence of turbo lag. It’s a surge of potency that makes you momentarily question the very necessity of gear changes. Yet, with eight gears to play with and an engine that revs freely to 8500rpm, the full extent of the 296 GTB’s capabilities is revealed when you truly uncork its performance. The acceleration is nothing short of startling.
As the figures suggest – a blistering 0-62mph in under 3 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205mph – the rate of acceleration is of the “hold-on-tight” variety, bordering on the exhilaratingly uncomfortable, yet paradoxically addictive. This is a seriously rapid automobile. And the soundtrack? It’s equally captivating, with a rich V6 rasp overlaid with the subtle, yet satisfying, effects of the twin-turbochargers. The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB price reflects its cutting-edge technology and exhilarating performance.
The ride and handling characteristics of the Ferrari 296 GTB are where its true genius lies. What’s truly remarkable is the chassis’s responsiveness and Ferrari’s unwavering commitment to delivering a ‘fun to drive’ experience. The car feels incredibly agile without ever becoming nervous. The steering is typically light and precise, characteristic of Ferrari, but crucially, it conveys a wealth of information to the driver. While grip levels are, as expected, exceptionally high, the car remains remarkably throttle-adjustable, inspiring confidence and eliciting grins at every opportunity.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a delightful lack of inertia that encourages the driver to work with the car, employing small, precise inputs and reveling in its accuracy. Engaging ‘CT Off’ mode provides an exhilarating level of driver freedom, bolstered by the reassurance of intelligent electronic safety nets far more sophisticated than any human can replicate. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296 GTB’s inherent balance allows for delightful moments of controlled oversteer, a feat that might seem impossible in a car producing 819bhp.
On track, the 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to shrink even the longest straights. Its prowess as a sharp, precise instrument becomes immediately apparent. The immense power is readily available to break traction at the rear at numerous points around the lap, yet the 296 GTB is also exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that precision with the controls yields the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build gradually, the 296 GTB settles instantly, its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering perfectly complementing the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for those accustomed to more mature sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are simply phenomenal, offering an addictive experience lap after lap.
The interior of the Ferrari 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90 Stradale, as it borrows heavily from its larger sibling. The fully digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, liberally applied to the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari stalks, can be a learning curve. While undoubtedly complex, this complexity is arguably necessary to convey the wealth of information the car provides. The primary challenge lies in the occasional need for a second press for inputs to register, or the uncertainty of whether an input has been successfully acknowledged. Nevertheless, it unequivocally feels like a special place to inhabit.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict: A Paradigm Shift
The 2022 evo Car of the Year competition saw the Ferrari 296 GTB achieve joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, a testament to its extraordinary capabilities. The judges were almost perfectly divided, with three narrowly preferring the Ferrari and three favoring the McLaren.
Jethro Bovingdon, a respected voice in automotive journalism, was particularly effusive: “What a spectacular car. Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever. 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 Meaden, another esteemed judge, offered a poignant observation: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further elaborated, “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 hybridisation was widely lauded. However, a memorable incident saw the car left stranded after the battery depleted, with no apparent means of revival. While Ferrari had provided guidance on preventing such an occurrence, it highlighted a potential vulnerability. As Gallagher noted, “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, this occurred after the scoring was complete.
Ferrari’s signature super-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the very best in class. The tech interface also drew widespread criticism for its complexity. Yet, despite these critiques, the 296 GTB proved irresistibly seductive. Vivian’s initial skepticism (“I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference”) melted away, leaving him “somewhat bewitched: the spooky way it changes direction; its amazing damping and looney-tunes levels of grip; the linearity of seemingly never-ending power…”
Peter Tomalin, editor of evo, summarized the sentiment: “It’s a real return to form for Ferrari, after the SF90 left us cold last year. 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.”
Price and the Evolving Supercar Landscape
When a vehicle is as densely packed with cutting-edge technology as the Ferrari 296 GTB, there’s always a risk that it might feel less than the sum of its parts. We observed this with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could be unnerving in its challenging driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB is a different proposition entirely. Its ability to strike a perfect balance between immense power and engaging dynamics has redefined what a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket can be. A Versione Speciale variant, promising even more power, performance, and intensity, is anticipated, and the hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be retained.
It is this intrinsic sense of balance and driver connection that we fervently hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an obscene amount of power, and without a chassis and dynamics perfectly resolved to manage it, such an output can be detrimental. If Lamborghini has achieved this balance – and their success with the Revuelto offers ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin-test featuring a combined 1700bhp of hybrid hypercar might.
One could even imagine a 2400bhp triple-threat with the McLaren 750S. In this company, the McLaren, with its 740bhp, now seems almost diminutive. However, its relatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight ensures a formidable power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw feedback, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and exquisite chassis control offer a more tactile and connected experience compared to the Ferrari’s comparatively more insulated nature. The Ferrari 296 GTB performance is truly in a class of its own, offering a compelling blend of raw power and sophisticated dynamics.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbo V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm (engine peak)
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Estimated Price: £250,000+
The journey into the future of supercars is undeniably exciting. The Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a beacon of this evolution, a masterful fusion of combustion and electrification that delivers an unparalleled driving experience. For those seeking the pinnacle of automotive engineering and a glimpse into the future of performance, the 296 GTB is an unmissable destination.
Ready to experience the future of supercar performance? Explore the exceptional capabilities of the Ferrari 296 GTB and discover a driving experience that transcends expectations. Contact your nearest Ferrari dealer today to arrange a private viewing or test drive.
