The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Facing Its Toughest Challenger
For a decade now, the allure of the roaring V12 and the visceral thrill of a naturally aspirated engine have defined the pinnacle of supercar performance. However, as an industry veteran with ten years immersed in the relentless evolution of automotive engineering, I’ve witnessed a seismic shift. The landscape of high-performance vehicles is no longer solely dominated by brute force; electrification has irrevocably transformed the game. Ferrari, a brand synonymous with automotive excellence and a relentless pursuit of perfection, has boldly embraced this paradigm shift with the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB. This isn’t just another Ferrari; it’s a statement of intent, a testament to innovation, and a benchmark against which its rivals, particularly the formidable Lamborghini Temerario, must now be measured.
The arrival of the 296 GTB in 2022 marked an unprecedented departure for Ferrari’s mid-engined supercar lineage. It bid farewell to the celebrated, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8, a powerplant that had graced many of its most iconic machines. In its place, a revolutionary twin-turbo V6, augmented by electric power, took center stage. This strategic pivot positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a supercar segment still in the throes of a significant hybrid transition. While its initial rivals, the naturally aspirated V10-powered Lamborghini Huracán and the twin-turbo V8 McLaren 720S (now succeeded by the 750S), offered compelling performance, the 296 GTB presented a fundamentally different proposition. The McLaren 750S, while an evolution, largely adheres to the established principles of power-to-weight supremacy. The 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid Temerario, on the other hand, is Lamborghini’s direct salvo at Maranello’s 819bhp electrified Berlinetta, signaling an escalation in the hybrid hypercar race.
The 296 GTB’s sheer performance figures are undeniably staggering. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, paired with an electric motor, drives only the rear wheels (a distinction from the SF90 Stradale). The combined output of 819bhp shattered conventional supercar expectations, injecting a potent dose of electric dynamism into the mix. It’s easy to get lost in the numbers, to ponder where this relentless pursuit of horsepower will ultimately lead, and indeed, where such performance can be responsibly unleashed. Yet, the true genius of the 296 GTB lies not just in its raw power, but in its groundbreaking engineering and its ability to integrate these disparate elements into a cohesive and exhilarating driving experience.
This V6-powered marvel is the first V6 road car to bear the illustrious Ferrari badge – a subtle nod to the classic 246 GT Dino, which, though exquisite, never officially carried the Prancing Horse emblem during its production. It also pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration, a layout that optimizes efficiency and responsiveness. Furthermore, its plug-in hybrid nature grants it an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles, offering a tantalizing glimpse into a future where sustainable performance is not a compromise, but an enhancement. The compact V6 is nestled low within a new aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase reduced by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, subtly repositioning the occupants slightly further forward for an even more intimate connection with the road.
The electric motor alone contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 engine independently produces a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. Combined, these sources yield the headline figure of 819bhp. Ferrari strategically abstains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, a decision likely rooted in the intricate interplay between the engine and electric motor, but it’s safe to assume the resultant torque is nothing short of prodigious. Crucially, this V6 unit offers a weight saving of 30kg over Ferrari’s V8 engines, and it’s seamlessly mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, elongated structure, is cleverly integrated behind the seats, maintaining the car’s perfect weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. Ferrari has developed a groundbreaking six-axis sensor known as the 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This advanced system meticulously measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, replacing traditional yaw sensors. In conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, it provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of driver inputs and instantaneous grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data allows for the precise management of systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, optimizing cornering speeds while upholding unwavering stability and driver confidence. Moreover, it enables the innovative ABS-evo system, which, in RACE mode and above, leverages the 296’s brake-by-wire technology to not only shorten braking distances but also enhance performance during trail braking into corners.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is deploying its active aerodynamics not to minimize drag, but to maximize downforce. The manufacturer quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant 100kg of this generated by an elegantly integrated rear wing that deploys seamlessly from the rear deck. The thermal management system is equally impressive, with two radiators in the nose dedicated to engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers for the battery. Hot air is expertly channeled underneath the car to prevent interference with the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. The subtle apertures beneath the headlamps are dedicated to cooling the brakes, while a wing integrated into the roofline creates a “virtual rear screen,” effectively guiding airflow to the rear of the car as if guided by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car, with particular attention paid to the intricate design of the underbody and rear diffuser, as well as the ground clearance, to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The examples of the 296 GTB we experienced on the launch circuit were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-enhancing suite replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing technology and adds carbon-fiber aerodynamic enhancements to the nose, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The cabin also benefits from more carbon fiber elements, including the door panels, contributing to a total weight saving of 12kg, which can be further increased to 15kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For the ultimate in track-focused grip, Fiorano package customers can opt for Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a significant upgrade over the already capable standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Assetto Fiorano package also offers a visually striking exterior graphics package, inspired by the iconic 250LM from the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It possesses a unique and captivating design language, a departure from anything else on the road, subtly echoing the spirit of the 1960s 250LM, even without the more overt graphics options. The visual presence of the Ferrari 296 GTB horsepower is matched by its design.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Symphony of Power and Precision
Initiating a drive in the 296 GTB is an experience in refined engagement. A double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss and a deliberate selection of first gear are all that’s required. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for serene departures on electric power alone, unless the driver deliberately selects otherwise via the intuitive haptic controls on the steering wheel. As long as throttle inputs are judicious, the car will continue its silent progress, provided the battery reserves are sufficient.
The driver has the option to explicitly engage full EV mode, irrespective of the demands placed upon the powertrain. Beyond this, the Performance and Qualifying modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid system. In Performance mode, both power sources collaborate with the aim of maintaining optimal battery charge, while Qualifying mode prioritizes absolute performance, with battery state of charge becoming a secondary consideration.
The unexpected pleasure of gliding silently through urban landscapes, coupled with the sophisticated damping that renders the car a surprisingly comfortable long-distance companion, is remarkable. Even the luggage space in the front ‘frunk’ is reasonably accommodating, a welcome improvement over the SF90. However, the question that truly ignites the imagination is: what does it feel like when both the V6 engine and the electric motor are unleashed in their full glory?
The answer is revealed when the throttle is firmly applied at low revs in a higher gear. The 296 GTB simply leaps forward with an immediacy that makes you momentarily question the necessity of gear changes, such is its potent, lag-free acceleration. Yet, with eight gears to explore and an engine that willingly spins to 8,500rpm, the full deployment of the 296’s capabilities is nothing short of astonishing. The acceleration figures – a sub-3-second 0-62mph sprint and a top speed exceeding 200mph – translate into a sensation of intense, almost overwhelming, forward propulsion. It’s a thrilling, slightly unnerving, yet utterly addictive experience. The soundtrack is equally captivating, a rich V6 rasp overlaid with the evocative sounds of the twin turbos, creating a truly immersive auditory spectacle. This is a Ferrari 296 GTB review that must emphasize its exhilarating performance.
Ride and Handling: The Art of Agile Precision
What truly elevates the 296 GTB is the astonishing responsiveness of its chassis, underscoring Ferrari’s commitment to making this car “fun to drive.” It exhibits a remarkable agility without succumbing to nervous tendencies. The steering, as expected from Ferrari, is light and exceptionally quick, but it also conveys a surprising amount of road texture and feedback. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains remarkably throttle-adjustable, a characteristic that elicits an irrepressible grin.
Despite its 1,470kg (dry) weight, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a distinct lack of inertia that encourages an intuitive, collaborative driving style, where small, precise inputs elicit immediate and accurate responses. Engaging CT Off mode provides a safety net of electronic assistance, assuring you that a highly intelligent system is still overseeing proceedings. Yet, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows it to be playfully coaxed into oversteer in a manner that defies its colossal 819bhp output. This is the essence of Ferrari 296 GTB handling.
On the racetrack, the 296 GTB possesses the uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel compressed. Its true prowess as a precision instrument becomes even more apparent. While the power is ample to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the lap, the car is exceptionally sensitive to braking and steering inputs, rewarding precise control with immense satisfaction. The turn-in accuracy and immediate response dramatically shorten 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 working in perfect harmony with the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are simply phenomenal, delivering a joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior: A Digital Frontier with Familiar Echoes
The cabin architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to those who have experienced the SF90 Stradale, as it borrows extensively from its hybrid sibling. The fully digital interface, complemented by a comprehensive array of haptic switchgear liberally applied to the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it, presents a significant learning curve. While the complexity is understandable given the sheer volume of information and functions to manage, the occasional need for a second press for inputs to register, or uncertainty about whether an input has been successfully acknowledged, can be frustrating. Nevertheless, the cabin undeniably conveys a sense of occasion and exclusivity, befitting a Ferrari 296 GTB interior.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict: A Return to Form
The automotive world buzzed with the results of the evo Car of the Year 2022 competition. The 296 GTB emerged as a formidable contender, narrowly missing out on outright victory. The competition was fierce, with the McLaren Artura proving to be an equally compelling proposition. Judges were split, with three narrowly favoring the Ferrari and three giving a slight edge to the McLaren.
Those who championed the 296 GTB, including myself, Jethro Bovingdon, and Henry Catchpole, were captivated by its sheer brilliance. Jethro enthused, “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 echoed this sentiment, declaring it “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 become accustomed 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 296’s hybridisation was widely lauded. However, a notable incident saw one of the cars stranded after the battery depleted with no apparent means of recovery. Ferrari had proactively warned of such possibilities and outlined preventative measures. Nevertheless, the scenario highlighted a concern: “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,” as Gallagher aptly put it. Fortunately, this occurred after the scoring was complete, preserving the 296’s strong standing.
Despite the celebrated Ferrari steering being a point of contention for some, and brake feel not quite matching the very best in the class, the cabin’s technology interface also faced criticism for its complexity. Nevertheless, the 296 GTB proved undeniably seductive. Vivian admitted, “I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference – but I ended up 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, summing up the evo COTY 2022 verdict, declared, “It’s a real return to form for Ferrari, after the SF90 left us cold last year. As Sutcliffe said: ‘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.’ And Gallagher agreed: ‘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 Rivals: The Cutting Edge of Supercar Value
When a vehicle is as technologically advanced as the 296 GTB, there’s always a risk that it may become less than the sum of its parts. This was a concern with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could be intimidating to master.
However, the 296 GTB charts a different course. As evidenced by its joint third-place finish in the evo Car of the Year 2022 alongside the McLaren Artura, it possesses a far more organic feel. Its masterful blend of immense power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect balance, redefining expectations for a supercar in the £250,000 price bracket. Rumors of a “Versione Speciale” variant, code-named for a potential release this year, suggest even greater power, performance, and intensity. The hope remains that this extreme iteration will retain the standard 296’s remarkably natural and intuitive driving feel.
It is this fundamental aspect – the inherent drivability and engaging nature – 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 perfectly resolved chassis to match, it can easily become a formidable, rather than exhilarating, machine. If Lamborghini has achieved the same level of dynamic mastery that they demonstrated with the Revuelto, then we are poised for an epic twin test – potentially a Ferrari 296 GTB vs Lamborghini Temerario showdown of epic proportions.
Indeed, the inclusion of the McLaren 750S, with its comparatively modest 740bhp, would create a 2,400bhp triple threat, absurdly highlighting the McLaren as the “minnow” of this elite group. However, the McLaren’s lightweight construction, at a mere 1,389kg, ensures a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, unadulterated character, its ergonomic perfection, the crispness of its steering, and the exquisite deftness of its chassis offer a compelling contrast to the comparatively remote feel of the Ferrari. For those seeking a new Ferrari for sale, the 296 GTB represents the pinnacle of current hybrid supercar technology.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight (dry): 1470kg (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
The automotive landscape is more exciting than ever, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of performance and technology. Whether you’re drawn to the cutting edge of hybrid hypercars or the visceral thrill of traditional performance, the choices available today offer an unprecedented level of excitement and innovation. If you’re ready to explore the future of supercar performance and experience the electrifying capabilities of machines like the Ferrari 296 GTB, we invite you to connect with our team of automotive specialists. Let us help you discover the perfect vehicle to ignite your passion and redefine your driving experience.
