Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Era of Hybrid Supercar Performance and Driver Engagement
In the ever-evolving landscape of high-performance automobiles, few marques command the respect and admiration quite lik
e Ferrari. For decades, the Prancing Horse has been synonymous with exhilarating driving dynamics, breathtaking design, and a racing pedigree that permeates every road-going machine. The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a pivotal moment in this storied history, marking a bold embrace of hybrid technology without sacrificing the visceral thrill that defines a true Ferrari supercar. After experiencing this marvel of engineering firsthand and observing its impact on the competitive supercar segment, it’s clear that the Ferrari 296 GTB review reveals a vehicle that has not only redefined expectations but also set a formidable benchmark for its rivals, particularly as formidable contenders like the upcoming Lamborghini Temerario enter the arena.
My decade of experience immersing myself in the world of automotive engineering and performance reviews has provided a unique lens through which to evaluate machines like the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB. This isn’t just another supercar; it’s a testament to innovation, a harmonious blend of raw power and sophisticated electrification, and a car that genuinely prioritizes driver engagement. While the allure of a 10,000rpm, 903bhp Lamborghini rival looms, the Ferrari 296 GTB has already carved out a significant niche, proving that hybrid power can enhance, rather than dilute, the supercar experience.
A Paradigm Shift in Ferrari’s Supercar Lineup
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 was a watershed moment. It signaled a departure from the beloved, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 engines that had powered its predecessors. In their place, Ferrari introduced a groundbreaking twin-turbo V6, augmented by electric power. This wasn’t just an evolution; it was a revolution, positioning the Ferrari 296 GTB at the forefront of a segment still grappling with the transition to electrification.
In its debut, the traditional adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10 symphony and raw sonic appeal. While the Huracán offered an undeniable charisma, the Ferrari 296 GTB countered with a different kind of magic. It also contended with the formidable McLaren 720S, a benchmark in twin-turbo V8 performance. While the subsequent McLaren 750S represents an iterative refinement, the sheer audacity of Lamborghini’s 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Temerario, now poised to challenge Maranello’s 819bhp electrified Berlinetta, underscores the fierce competition and the rapid advancement in supercar technology.
The Ferrari 296 GTB doesn’t just boast impressive figures; it redefines them. Its 819bhp output, delivered through an all-new 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 paired with an electric motor driving the rear wheels exclusively (a distinction from the all-wheel-drive SF90), shattered conventional notions of what a supercar could achieve. This car doesn’t just accelerate; it launches you into another dimension, prompting contemplation on the very limits of performance and the practicalities of unleashing such ferocity.
Engineering Prowess: The Heart of the 296 GTB
The Ferrari 296 GTB is more than just a powerful hybrid; it’s a masterclass in engineering. It proudly carries the distinction of being the first V6-powered Ferrari road car, a lineage that evokes the spirit of the classic 246 GT Dino, albeit without the original emblem. Its “hot-vee” turbocharger configuration, where the turbos are nestled within the cylinder banks, is a key innovation, contributing to its compact design and rapid response. Furthermore, its plug-in hybrid capability, offering an estimated 15 miles of electric-only range, introduces a new layer of versatility.
The compact V6 engine is mounted low within a bespoke aluminum chassis. Notably, the wheelbase has been shortened by 50mm compared to its V8-engined predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward. This strategic packaging enhances agility and contributes to the car’s dynamic character. The electric motor contributes an impressive 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 itself churns out a staggering 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari, in its characteristic precision, refrains from quoting combined peak torque, a wise decision given the complex interplay between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. The V6 unit is a significant weight saver, shedding approximately 30kg compared to Ferrari’s V8s, and is seamlessly integrated with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, slender unit, is cleverly housed behind the seats, contributing to the car’s optimized weight distribution.
Chassis Dynamics and Aerodynamic Ingenuity
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis systems, and the Ferrari 296 GTB is no exception. Ferrari has developed a groundbreaking six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS, capable of measuring acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes. This advanced system replaces traditional yaw sensors, and in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, provides the car’s control units with an unparalleled understanding of driver inputs and tire grip levels. This data is used to finely tune systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, maximizing cornering speeds while maintaining exceptional stability.
A significant advancement is the introduction of ABS-evo in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296 GTB’s brake-by-wire system, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also enhances performance during trail braking, allowing for more aggressive corner entry.
Ferrari’s active aerodynamics are also deployed in a novel manner. Instead of solely focusing on drag reduction, the Ferrari 296 GTB utilizes these systems to generate substantial downforce. The manufacturer quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion attributed to a deployable rear wing that generates up to 100kg of this force.
The thermal management of the Ferrari 296 GTB is equally impressive. Two radiators in the front handle engine and gearbox cooling, complemented by two condensers dedicated to battery cooling. Hot air is efficiently expelled from beneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps are designed to cool the brakes, while a roofline-integrated wing channels air towards the rear, effectively creating a “virtual” rear screen. The majority of the car’s downforce is generated from beneath, with meticulous attention paid to the underbody’s contours and the rear diffuser, optimizing airflow for maximum aerodynamic efficiency.
The Assetto Fiorano Package: Elevating Performance
For those seeking the absolute pinnacle of performance, the Assetto Fiorano package is an essential consideration. This track-focused upgrade replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing, and adds carbon-fiber aerodynamic elements to the nose, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The extensive use of carbon fiber extends to the cabin, including door panels, and the exterior, contributing to a 12kg weight saving. Opting for the Lexan rear engine cover further reduces weight by an additional 3kg. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S, offer even greater grip, and an exterior graphics package, inspired by the iconic 250LM, adds a touch of heritage.
Design Philosophy: A Blend of Heritage and Future
In the metal, the Ferrari 296 GTB is a truly captivating machine. Its design language is distinct and evocative, drawing subtle inspiration from the legendary 250LM of the 1960s, even without the optional graphics package. The aesthetic is a harmonious fusion of classic Ferrari elegance and modern supercar aggression, a design that commands attention and admiration from every angle.
Performance Unleashed: The Thrill of Hybrid Power
Initiating the drive of the Ferrari 296 GTB is as simple as a double-press of a button on the steering wheel boss and selecting first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent, electric-only departure unless prompted otherwise via the haptic driver mode controls. Maintaining gentle throttle application allows for extended electric-only cruising, provided the battery has sufficient charge.
The driver has the option to “force” the car into EV mode, independent of powertrain demands. Alternatively, the Performance and Qualifying modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid powertrain. In Performance mode, both the V6 and electric motor work in concert to deliver exhilarating acceleration, with the system actively managing the battery charge. Qualifying mode unleashes the full, unadulterated fury of the powertrain, prioritizing ultimate performance above all else, even at the expense of battery state of charge.
The experience of gliding silently through urban landscapes is unexpectedly serene. The damping, a marvel of sophisticated engineering, provides a remarkably comfortable ride, making it an engaging companion for long journeys. The “frunk” offers a surprisingly practical luggage space, a welcome addition absent in the SF90. However, the true magic lies in unleashing the combined might of the V6 and electric motor.
Planting the throttle at low revs in a high gear results in an immediate, exhilarating surge of acceleration, devoid of any discernible lag. This instant gratification makes one question the very necessity of gears, such is the potency on offer. With eight gears to exploit and an engine that revs to 8,500rpm, the Ferrari 296 GTB delivers an experience that is nothing short of startling. The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 205mph – translate into a relentless, almost unnerving pace that verges on overwhelming, yet is undeniably addictive. The soundtrack is equally captivating, a symphony of turbocharger whines harmonizing with the tuneful rasp of the V6.
Ride and Handling: A Masterclass in Agility and Precision
What truly distinguishes the Ferrari 296 GTB is the astonishing responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s commitment to creating a “fun to drive” experience is palpable. The car feels incredibly agile, yet never nervous, a testament to its balanced design. The steering, typically light and rapid, is imbued with remarkable feel and feedback, allowing the driver to precisely place the car. While grip levels are exceptionally high, as expected from a Ferrari, the car remains delightfully throttle-adjustable, inviting playful interaction and eliciting wide grins.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the Ferrari 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. Its lack of inertia encourages a fluid driving style, rewarding small, precise inputs and showcasing its exceptional accuracy. The CT Off mode offers a reassuring safety net, with intelligent electronic systems standing by to assist, but even with all electronic aids disengaged, the car’s inherent balance allows for controlled, playful oversteer – a feat one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp.
On the circuit, the Ferrari 296 GTB has the remarkable ability to make even lengthy straights feel abbreviated. It performs as a razor-sharp instrument, capable of breaking traction at numerous points around the lap. The car is exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs, rewarding precision with immense satisfaction. The turn-in accuracy and response dramatically shorten corner entry phases. Instead of gradually loading the suspension, the 296 GTB settles immediately, its hyper-quick steering perfectly complementing the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the Ferrari 296 GTB are phenomenal, offering an exhilarating experience lap after lap.
Interior Ambitions: A Digital Frontier
The interior architecture of the Ferrari 296 GTB will feel familiar to those who have experienced the SF90. However, the reliance on a purely digital interface, coupled with haptic switchgear liberally applied to the steering wheel and adjacent pods, presents a significant learning curve. While the intention is to convey a wealth of information, the execution can be challenging. Simple operations sometimes require multiple attempts to register, and the lack of tactile feedback can lead to uncertainty about command execution. Nevertheless, the cabin undeniably exudes a special, focused atmosphere, a dedicated environment for the driving experience.
Expert Verdict: A New Benchmark for Ferrari
Our internal evaluations at evo, including the prestigious Car of the Year awards in 2022, have consistently highlighted the Ferrari 296 GTB’s exceptional qualities. In direct comparisons, it has been a remarkably close-run thing, with the Ferrari 296 GTB often battling for supremacy against its rivals. Judges have lauded its aesthetic appeal, its outrageous performance, its exploitable dynamics, and its technical brilliance. The V6 powertrain, in particular, has been praised for demonstrating how downsizing can be achieved without compromising drama, offering a level of control comparable to its competitors, but with a more playful and indulgent character.
Many have described the Ferrari 296 GTB as the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355, a sentiment echoed by numerous reviewers. The hybrid system’s seamless integration has been a revelation, enhancing the driving experience rather than dictating it, likely due to our growing familiarity with the torque-rich characteristics of modern turbocharged engines. The 296 GTB is not just quick; it’s captivatingly so, thanks to the characterful V6 and its always-sweet soundtrack that evolves with throttle input.
While the hybrid integration has been widely praised, one notable incident during our evaluations involved a battery failure that left the car stranded. Ferrari had indeed provided guidance on preventing such occurrences, but the oversight in not engineering a simple fail-safe mechanism for a company known for its advanced engineering is a significant point of critique. Fortunately, this occurred after scoring, but it highlights a potential vulnerability.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering has been a point of discussion, and the brake feel, while effective, doesn’t quite reach the absolute pinnacle of class competitors. The complex tech interface remains a point of contention. However, despite these critiques, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses an irresistible allure. Its uncanny ability to change direction, its remarkable damping, its prodigious grip levels, and the linearity of its seemingly unending power have a bewitching effect on even the most discerning drivers.
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a significant return to form for Ferrari, a stark contrast to the less inspiring reception of the SF90. Its technical sophistication and the natural, unobtrusive integration of its hybrid technology make it a far more successful and cohesive package. Ferrari has demonstrably learned from the SF90, distilling its advancements into a series-production model that stands as one of its very best creations.
Price, Rivals, and the Future of the Hybrid Supercar
With such advanced technology, there’s always a risk of a car becoming less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern we had with the SF90, which, despite its dazzling power, could feel somewhat unapproachable. However, the Ferrari 296 GTB is a different proposition entirely. Achieving joint third place at the evo Car of the Year 2022, it strikes a remarkable sweet spot, blending immense power with an engaging and organic driving dynamic, effectively redefining what a supercar in the £250,000 price bracket can be. Rumors of a Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power and intensity, only heighten anticipation, with the hope that the standard 296 GTB’s innate natural feel will be retained.
It is this very aspect of the Ferrari 296 GTB’s finely tuned constitution that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in its upcoming Temerario hybrid supercar. A twin-test between these two titans, particularly with the Temerario potentially boasting an astounding 1700bhp and the McLaren 750S adding its lighter, more visceral character to the fray, promises to be an electrifying showdown in the hybrid supercar market. While the McLaren might appear the “minnow” with its 740bhp, its remarkably low kerb weight of 1389kg ensures a potent power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw character, ergonomic perfection, sharp steering, and deft chassis control offer a compelling counterpoint to the Ferrari’s more technologically advanced, yet arguably more remote, driving experience.
The Ferrari 296 GTB is not merely a car; it’s a statement. It’s a bold declaration that the future of the supercar is hybrid, and that this evolution can be synonymous with exhilaration, precision, and an unadulterated connection between driver and machine.
Experience the Future Today
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents the zenith of hybrid supercar engineering, a symphony of power, technology, and driving pleasure. If you are ready to embrace the next generation of automotive performance and explore the pinnacle of driving dynamics, we invite you to connect with our team of Ferrari specialists. Discover how you can make this extraordinary machine your own and embark on an unforgettable journey.
