Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Navigating the Evolving Supercar Landscape
For over a decade, my professional life has been immersed in the exhilarating world of high-performance automobiles. I’ve witnessed firsthand the seismic shifts in automotive engineering, particularly the inexorable march towards electrification and hybridization. Few vehicles embody this transformation as profoundly as the Ferrari 296 GTB. Having been a fixture in the supercar arena for a couple of years now, this V6 hybrid marvel continues to astonish, even as a formidable 10,000rpm, 903bhp Lamborghini rival looms on the horizon, promising to redefine the very essence of Italian automotive rivalry.
The arrival of the 296 GTB in 2022 marked a significant departure from Ferrari’s established formula for its mid-engined supercar. Departing from the celebrated, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 in favor of a groundbreaking twin-turbo V6 engine augmented by electric power, the 296 GTB boldly spearheaded a segment of the supercar market that was only beginning its complex transition to hybrid propulsion. This was a calculated gamble by Maranello, a decisive move into uncharted territory for a marque steeped in naturally aspirated lore.
At its inception, the 296 GTB’s closest contemporary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car defined by its charismatic, naturally aspirated V10. While the Huracán might have trailed in sheer horsepower, it offered an intoxicating blend of V10 symphony and raw mechanical engagement that captivated enthusiasts during its heyday. It also contended with the formidable McLaren 720S, a car that clung to the proven efficacy of its twin-turbo V8. While the subsequent McLaren 750S represents an evolutionary refinement of its predecessor, focusing on an exceptional power-to-weight ratio, the arrival of the 903bhp, 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8 hybrid Lamborghini Temerario signifies a direct and audacious challenge to Ferrari’s 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta. This imminent showdown promises to be one of the most compelling narratives in the supercar segment for years to come, driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of performance.
The Ferrari 296 GTB undeniably possesses immense firepower. Its entirely new 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, paired with an electric motor driving the rear wheels exclusively (a departure from the four-wheel-drive SF90), generates a staggering 819bhp. This configuration shattered conventional supercar norms upon its debut, forcing rivals to re-evaluate their technological roadmaps. The sheer magnitude of this power output is breathtaking, prompting contemplation about the ultimate limits of power escalation in production supercars – a question the 296 GTB certainly doesn’t shy away from. It also raises the perennial question of where such prodigious performance can be responsibly and enjoyably unleashed.
Significantly, the 296 GTB is the first V6-powered road car to proudly wear the Prancing Horse emblem. While the iconic 246 GT Dino was a V6 marvel, it never bore the Ferrari badge during its production. Furthermore, the 296 GTB pioneers Ferrari’s “hot-vee” turbocharger configuration and embraces plug-in hybrid technology, offering an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is strategically positioned low within a new aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants seated slightly further forward. This meticulous packaging contributes to the car’s dynamic prowess and distinctive character, offering a fresh perspective on supercar ergonomics.
The electric motor alone contributes an impressive 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 engine, on its own, produces a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined output reaches the headline-grabbing 819bhp figure. Ferrari, however, judiciously refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. Nevertheless, it’s safe to assume the total torque output is, to put it mildly, considerable, pushing the boundaries of available traction for performance hybrid supercars. This intricate power delivery is a testament to Ferrari’s engineering sophistication.
As expected from any Ferrari, the 296 GTB is equipped with a suite of advanced electronic chassis control systems. At its heart lies the revolutionary six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS. This groundbreaking technology measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, offering a far more granular understanding of the car’s dynamic behavior than traditional sensors. By integrating this data with steering rack sensor information, the system not only discerns driver input but also gauges real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This allows for optimized operation of systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, maximizing cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability. A particularly noteworthy innovation is the ABS-evo system, activated in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo reduces braking distances and enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, a critical technique for maximizing lap times on tracks like those found near supercar dealerships in Los Angeles.
For the first time, Ferrari is utilizing its active aerodynamics not solely to minimize drag but to actively generate downforce. The automaker quotes a substantial 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with an impressive 100kg attributed to the deployable rear wing. This is a significant development, showcasing a more aggressive application of aero principles for enhanced grip and stability. The thermal management system is equally sophisticated, featuring two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox cooling, complemented by two condensers dedicated to battery thermal management. Hot air is strategically expelled from the underbody to prevent interference with the intercooler airflow along the flanks. The subtle apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to cooling the brakes, while the roofline-integrated rear spoiler creates a “virtual” rear screen, effectively channeling airflow to the car’s rear. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated beneath the car, with meticulous attention paid to the underbody’s design, including the rear diffuser and the crucial underbody ground clearance, to maximize the effectiveness of these aerodynamic surfaces. This focus on aerodynamic efficiency is paramount for track-ready supercars.
The examples of the 296 GTB we sampled on the launch circuit were all fitted with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance enhancement replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing and adds further carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front splitter, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The package also incorporates more carbon fiber in the cabin, such as the door panels, and on the exterior, contributing to a total weight saving of 12kg. Opting for the Lexan rear engine cover further reduces weight by another 3kg. For those seeking ultimate track grip, the Fiorano package offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an upgrade over the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Fiorano variants can also be specified with a striking exterior graphics package, a subtle nod to the legendary 250LM of the 1960s. This attention to detail underscores Ferrari’s commitment to offering a truly bespoke and high-performance Ferrari driving experience.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB in person, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It presents a strikingly unique silhouette, reminiscent of the 250LM even without the optional graphics, a design that manages to be both timeless and avant-garde. This visual distinctiveness is a hallmark of truly desirable luxury sports cars.
To initiate propulsion, a simple double-press of the lower steering wheel boss and engaging first gear is all that’s required. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will commence its journey using electric power alone, unless explicitly overridden by the driver via the intuitive haptic controls on the steering wheel’s boss. As long as throttle inputs remain measured, the car will continue to glide silently on electric power, contingent on battery charge. Drivers can also select a dedicated EV mode, irrespective of powertrain demands, or choose between Performance and Qualifying modes. In these settings, both the V6 and electric motor work in concert. Performance mode aims to maintain battery charge while optimizing power delivery, whereas Qualifying mode prioritizes absolute maximum performance, with no regard for the battery’s state of charge. This adaptability ensures the 296 GTB can excel in diverse scenarios, from serene village cruising to blistering track performance, making it a versatile contender in the hybrid supercar market.
The experience of gliding silently through picturesque villages is a surprisingly serene pleasure, and the sophisticated damping system ensures a remarkably comfortable ride for covering long distances. There’s even a practical luggage compartment in the front ‘frunk,’ a welcome addition absent in the SF90. However, the true allure for any enthusiast lies in the visceral thrill of unleashing both the V6 engine and the electric motor to their full potential. The instant surge of acceleration when applying significant throttle at low revs in a high gear is nothing short of astonishing. The car bolts forward with virtually no perceptible lag, prompting a fleeting moment of questioning the necessity of gear changes, such is its sheer potency. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that revs to a searing 8,500rpm, the full unleashing of the 296 GTB’s capabilities is an utterly exhilarating and almost overwhelming experience. The acceleration figures – a sub-3-second 0-62mph time and a top speed exceeding 205mph – paint a picture of “hold-on-tight” exhilaration, bordering on the uncomfortable yet undeniably addictive. This is a seriously rapid machine. The auditory experience is equally captivating, with the V6’s tuneful rasp beautifully augmented by a symphony of turbocharger sound effects, creating a truly immersive sensory engagement. This level of driver involvement is a key differentiator for exotic car performance.
What truly impresses is the exquisite responsiveness of the 296 GTB’s chassis, a testament to Ferrari’s unwavering commitment to making this car, as they put it, “fun to drive.” It feels remarkably agile without ever becoming unnervingly nervous. The steering, typically light and rapid, offers a surprising level of feedback and detail. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains delightfully throttle-adjustable, eliciting an irrepressible grin. It feels considerably lighter than its 1470kg (dry) weight suggests, exhibiting a fluidity of motion that encourages the driver to work with the car, employing small, precise inputs and reveling in its accuracy. The CT Off mode, while disengaging certain electronic aids, still provides a reassuring safety net, a testament to the intelligence of the underlying electronic systems. Even with all electronic interventions disabled, the 296’s inherent balance allows for a degree of playful oversteer that seems almost improbable for a car producing 819bhp. On track, the 296 GTB possesses the remarkable ability to compress even the longest start-finish straight, revealing its sharp-edged precision. While the power is readily available to break rear traction at numerous points around the circuit, the 296 is exceptionally sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes apparent that precise control inputs yield the most rewarding results. The astonishing turn-in accuracy and response dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build, the 296 assumes its stance immediately, aided by its Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering, which beautifully complements the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for those transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are phenomenal, offering an exhilarating experience lap after lap, solidifying its reputation as one of the most engaging supercar driving experiences available.
The interior architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. The cabin largely adopts the SF90’s philosophy, featuring a fully digital interface and a plethora of haptic switchgear integrated into the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it. While undeniably complex, it aims to convey a vast amount of information. However, the primary frustration arises from the need for secondary presses for simple operations, or uncertainty as to whether an input has registered. Despite these ergonomic quirks, the cabin undeniably feels like a special place to be, exuding an aura of focused performance and technological sophistication, characteristic of premium automotive interiors.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict: A Resounding Success
“Now it gets serious. When the scores were tallied, there was barely a sliver of difference between the McLaren Artura and the 296 GTB. The judges were equally divided: three narrowly favored the Ferrari, while three placed the McLaren just ahead.
The three who championed the 296 were Jethro, Meaden, and myself. ‘What a spectacular car,’ Jethro enthused. ‘Beautiful to behold, outrageously fast, incredibly exploitable, and technically brilliant. Its V6 demonstrates to McLaren how to downsize while amplifying the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control, yet feels a bit more playful and indulgent.’
Dickie’s verdict, which resonated with many of us, was, ‘The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.’ He continued, ‘The hybrid system works exceptionally well and doesn’t alter the driving experience as much as I had feared, likely because we’ve become accustomed to the torquey nature of the turbocharged V8s in the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but its appeal isn’t solely reliant on speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which delivers a consistently sweet soundtrack that evolves with throttle application.’
The Ferrari’s hybridisation received widespread praise for its seamless integration. However, on the final night, we found ourselves stranded when the battery depleted with no apparent means of recovery. To be fair, Ferrari had preemptively warned us of this possibility and provided detailed guidelines to prevent such an occurrence. Nonetheless, it’s not inconceivable for an owner to face a similar predicament. As Gallagher aptly stated, ‘It’s a significant oversight that the company which pioneered individual rear-wheel steering can’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this.’ Fortunately for the 296, this incident occurred after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel didn’t quite match the very best in the group. The tech interface, too, was widely criticized for its over-complexity. Despite these drawbacks, the 296 GTB proved irresistibly seductive. Vivian admitted, ‘I initially thought I wouldn’t appreciate the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference – but I ended up somewhat bewitched: its uncanny ability to change direction, its astonishing damping, its looney-tunes levels of grip, and the linearity of its seemingly endless power…’
Ferrari 296 GTS review – is anything lost with the roof folded away?
‘It’s a genuine return to form for Ferrari, especially after the SF90 left us somewhat underwhelmed last year. As Sutcliffe remarked, ‘The 296 is far more successful because its technical sophistication, and particularly the integration of its hybrid technology, feels much more natural and far less intrusive.’ Gallagher concurred, ‘Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learned from that car, and distilled it into a series-production model that stands as one of its very best.’ – Peter Tomalin, ecoty 2022. This comprehensive assessment highlights the 296 GTB’s triumph in balancing cutting-edge technology with an engaging driving experience, a key factor for new supercar buyers.
When a vehicle is so heavily integrated with advanced technology, there’s always a risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts – a criticism we leveled at the SF90, which, while dazzling with its power, unnerved us with its challenging driving characteristics. However, the 296 GTB represents a significant departure. As evidenced by its strong showing at the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards (where it secured a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura), it possesses a far more organic feel. Its masterful blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect chord, effectively redefining the benchmark for a supercar in the approximately $250,000 price bracket. A Versione Speciale variant of the 296 is anticipated this year, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. Our fervent hope is that the standard 296’s inexplicably natural feel is retained.
It is precisely this aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has meticulously addressed in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series-production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm if the rest of the vehicle isn’t perfectly resolved to harness it. If Lamborghini has achieved this balance – and their success with the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin-test battle featuring a staggering 1700bhp combined output!
Alternatively, we could expand this into a 2400bhp triple-threat comparison with the McLaren 750S. This car, almost absurdly, is now the ‘minnow’ of the class, boasting a mere 740bhp. However, it compensates with a relatively petite 1389kg kerb weight, resulting in a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw visceral nature, ergonomic rightness, crisp steering, and deft chassis control undoubtedly set it apart from the comparatively more remote feel of the Ferrari. This intense competition among manufacturers of performance automobiles ensures a thrilling future for enthusiasts.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8,000rpm
Combined Torque: 546lb ft @ 6,250rpm
Weight (Dry): 1470kg (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: Starting from £250,000+
The automotive landscape is constantly evolving, and with the advent of incredible machines like the Ferrari 296 GTB, the future of the supercar is brighter and more electrifying than ever. If you’re captivated by this blend of cutting-edge hybrid technology and unparalleled driving dynamics, the next step is to experience it for yourself. Contact your local authorized Ferrari dealer to arrange a private viewing and discover the extraordinary capabilities of this automotive masterpiece.
