The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterclass Challenging the Supercar Pinnacle
For a decade, the supercar landscape has been an exhilarating arena of roaring V8s and naturally aspirated V10s, each vying
for dominance. As an industry professional with ten years immersed in this high-octane world, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless pursuit of power and performance. Now, in 2025, the paradigm has fundamentally shifted, and the Ferrari 296 GTB review I’m about to share reflects a significant evolution in supercar engineering. This isn’t just another iteration; it’s a bold declaration of intent, a technological marvel that redefines the very essence of what a mid-engined supercar can achieve, setting a formidable benchmark for rivals like the upcoming Lamborghini Temerario.
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked an unprecedented departure for the storied Italian marque. Eschewing the multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 that had powered its recent stars, Ferrari introduced a revolutionary twin-turbocharged V6, ingeniously augmented by electric power. This strategic pivot placed the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a supercar segment still largely transitioning to hybrid powertrains. Its debut positioned it against the traditional Lamborghini Huracán, celebrated for its charismatic, naturally aspirated V10 symphony, and the potent McLaren 720S, which championed the cause of the twin-turbo V8. While the McLaren 750S represents a refined evolution of its predecessor, trading on sheer power-to-weight prowess, the much-anticipated, 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Temerario from Lamborghini is clearly Maranello’s audacious riposte to Ferrari’s 819bhp electrified Berlinetta.
Make no mistake, the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB packs a truly astonishing level of firepower. Featuring an entirely new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine seamlessly integrated with an electric motor, driving the rear wheels exclusively (a distinction from the V12-hybrid SF90), the 819bhp 296 GTB shattered conventional supercar norms. It’s difficult not to be captivated by such an awe-inspiring output, prompting reflection on the ultimate limits of this power escalation – and, perhaps more pragmatically, on where such performance can be realistically deployed.
This remarkable machine is not only Ferrari’s first V6-powered road car to wear the iconic Prancing Horse emblem (the enchanting 246 GT Dino, though V6-powered, predates this lineage and never officially bore the badge), but it also debuts a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration and a plug-in hybrid system, offering an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is mounted low within a new aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase 50mm shorter than its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward. The electric motor contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 engine alone unleashes a staggering 654bhp and 546 lb-ft. The combined output culminates in the headline figure of 819bhp. Ferrari, perhaps wisely, omits a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the engine and electric motor, but it is safe to assume this figure is nothing short of formidable. Crucially, the V6 unit is approximately 30kg lighter than a comparable Ferrari V8, mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a slender, rectangular unit, is ingeniously housed behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis management systems, and the 296 is no exception. Ferrari’s engineers have developed a six-axis sensor array, dubbed the 6w-CDS (Chassis Dynamic Sensor), capable of measuring acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. This advanced system supplants traditional yaw sensors and, working in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data is fed to other vital systems, including the Side Slip Control and the active Electronic Differential (E-Diff), enabling maximized cornering speeds while upholding unwavering stability and driver confidence. A new feature, ABS-evo, debuted in RACE mode and above, leverages the 296’s brake-by-wire system to not only shorten braking distances but also enhance braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics technology not to minimize drag, but to generate substantial downforce. The manufacturer quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with an impressive 100kg of this attributed to the deployable rear wing. The aerodynamic philosophy extends to a meticulously sculpted underbody, with particular attention paid to air channeling and the rear diffuser, optimizing the effectiveness of downforce-generating surfaces. Two radiators in the front fascia manage engine and gearbox cooling, complemented by two additional condensers for the battery. Hot air is expelled underneath the car to prevent interference with the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a wing integrated into the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding air efficiently to the rear of the vehicle.
On our initial circuit evaluations, the 296 GTB models were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-enhancing suite replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing and incorporates additional carbon-fiber aerodynamic elements on the front, increasing front downforce by 20kg. Further weight savings are achieved through increased use of carbon fiber in the cabin, such as the door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to a total weight reduction of 12kg, which can extend to 15kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For those opting for the Fiorano package, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires are available as a tantalizing upgrade over the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Fiorano variants can also be personalized with an exterior graphics package, a stylish nod to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
Having experienced the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB firsthand, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It’s a truly beautiful machine, unlike anything else on the road, subtly evoking the spirit of the 1960s 250LM, even without the more overt graphic treatments.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Symphony of Power and Precision
Initiating forward motion is as simple as a double-press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, utilizing electric power for initial acceleration unless prompted otherwise via the haptic mode selectors on the steering wheel. Provided gentle throttle application and sufficient battery charge, it can glide silently on electric power alone. The “EV Mode” allows for sustained electric-only driving regardless of powertrain demands, while the “Performance” and “Qualifying” modes engage both power sources. Performance mode prioritizes sustained power delivery while also maintaining battery charge, whereas Qualifying mode unlocks the absolute pinnacle of performance, disregarding the battery’s state of charge.
The experience of gliding silently through urban landscapes is unexpectedly serene, and the sophisticated damping makes for a remarkably comfortable ride, even over long distances. The ‘frunk’ offers a surprisingly practical luggage compartment, a welcome improvement over the SF90. However, the true test of the Ferrari 296 GTB performance lies in unleashing both its V6 and electric motor in tandem.
Plant the throttle at low revs in a high gear, and the 296 surges forward with an immediacy that renders the concept of gear selection momentarily questionable. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that willingly spins to 8,500rpm, the exhilaration when the 296 is truly unleashed is utterly breathtaking. The acceleration figures (0-62mph in a scant 2.9 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 205mph) translate into a sensation of relentless, almost unnerving, forward momentum that is as addictive as it is astounding. The V6 engine contributes a delightful soundtrack, a melodic rasp overlaid with engaging turbocharger effects.
What truly elevates the Ferrari 296 GTB handling is its remarkable chassis responsiveness. Ferrari’s promise of a ‘fun to drive’ experience is emphatically delivered. The car feels incredibly agile without ever bordering on nervous. The steering, typically light and swift, also transmits a wealth of feel and detail. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains remarkably throttle-adjustable, eliciting an infectious grin from the driver. Despite its 1470kg dry weight, the 296 feels significantly lighter, exhibiting a dynamic fluidity that encourages precise, small inputs and rewards the driver with an unparalleled sense of accuracy and connection. Engaging the CT Off mode offers immense freedom, underpinned by the reassurance of an incredibly sophisticated electronic safety net. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows for controlled oversteer that defies expectations for a car producing 819bhp.
On track, the 296 GTB possesses the uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel shorter. It functions as a razor-sharp instrument, capable of easily breaking traction at the rear on numerous corners. However, its sensitivity to braking and steering inputs rewards precision with unparalleled rewards. The turn-in accuracy and immediate response dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing into turns, the 296 settles instantly, its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering harmonizing beautifully with the enhanced body control of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more mature sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are simply phenomenal, delivering a joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior and Technology: A Glimpse into the Future, with Caveats
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90, as it draws heavily from that model. The fully digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, liberally applied to the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods, present a learning curve. While the sheer volume of information to convey is substantial, some operations require repeated attempts to register, and confirming a successful input can be ambiguous. Nevertheless, the cabin exudes an undeniable sense of occasion, a special place to be.
Verdict: A Return to Form and a Supercar Benchmark
The intensity of technology often risks creating a sum that is less than its parts, a pitfall we observed with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, felt somewhat aloof in its driving characteristics. The Ferrari 296 GTB vs Lamborghini Temerario battleground is about to intensify, but the 296 GTB distinguishes itself significantly. As evidenced in our 2022 awards where it achieved joint third place with the McLaren Artura, the 296 GTB feels remarkably organic. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect chord, fundamentally redefining the £250,000-ish supercar segment. A forthcoming Versione Speciale variant promises even greater power and intensity, and we eagerly anticipate that the standard 296’s wonderfully natural feel will be preserved.
It is precisely this holistic integration that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an astronomical figure for a series-production supercar, and without a thoroughly resolved chassis to match, it risks becoming unwieldy. If Lamborghini has successfully captured this elusive blend, particularly given their impressive work on the Revuelto, we could be on the cusp of an extraordinary 1700bhp twin test. Alternatively, we could witness an even more potent 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S – now, perhaps absurdly, the junior player in this league with “only” 740bhp. However, the McLaren’s remarkable 1389kg kerb weight ensures a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw engagement, ergonomic perfection, incisive steering, and deft chassis control offer a compelling counterpoint to the Ferrari’s more insulated experience.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: V6, 2992cc, twin-turbo, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546 lb-ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+ (as of 2025)
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents more than just a leap forward; it’s a revolution in the supercar narrative. It masterfully blends cutting-edge hybrid technology with an undiluted driving passion that has defined Ferrari for generations. Its performance figures are astonishing, its handling sublime, and its design captivating. For those seeking the ultimate expression of automotive artistry and engineering prowess, the 296 GTB stands as an undeniable icon of the modern supercar era.
Ready to explore the future of performance? Discover more about the Ferrari 296 GTB and its unparalleled driving experience by contacting your nearest authorized Ferrari dealership today.
