Ferrari 296 GTB: The Electrifying Evolution of the Supercar Experience
For a decade, I’ve navigated the dynamic landscape of high-performance automobiles, witnessing firsthand the relentless march of innovation. From the raw, unadulterated thrill of naturally aspirated engines to the brutal efficiency of forced induction, the supercar segment has always been at the bleeding edge. However, the arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked a pivotal moment, a genuine paradigm shift that continues to redefine what a modern supercar can and should be. Even with a potent 903 bhp hybrid rival on the horizon, this Italian marvel remains a benchmark for electrifying performance and driving engagement.
The mid-engined Ferrari formula, a cornerstone of their road-car legacy, experienced a significant metamorphosis with the 296 GTB. The departure from the multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 in favor of a groundbreaking twin-turbocharged V6, seamlessly augmented by electric power, was a bold statement. This move positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment that was, and arguably still is, in a state of profound transition towards hybrid powertrains.
At its debut, the 296 GTB’s closest contemporaries were traditional rivals like the Lamborghini Huracán, with its charismatic naturally-aspirated V10, and the formidable McLaren 720S, which championed the cause of the twin-turbo V8. While the McLaren 750S represents an evolution of that theme, emphasizing power-to-weight supremacy, the incoming 903 bhp, 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8 hybrid, the Lamborghini Temerario, is a direct and potent riposte to Maranello’s 819 bhp hybrid Berlinetta.
Make no mistake, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses truly astounding firepower. Its entirely new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, paired with an electric motor that drives the rear wheels exclusively (unlike the four-wheel-drive SF90), culminates in a staggering 819 bhp. This configuration shattered conventional supercar expectations. The sheer magnitude of this power output is difficult to comprehend, prompting contemplation on the ultimate limits of such performance escalation—a question that clearly lingers in Sant’Agata Bolognese—and, more pragmatically, where such capabilities can be safely and exhilaratingly unleashed.
This V6-powered Ferrari marks a significant milestone. It’s the first V6 road car to bear the Prancing Horse insignia, following the celebrated but emblem-less 246 GT Dino. It also pioneers Ferrari’s “hot-vee” turbocharger arrangement and operates as a plug-in hybrid, offering an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is mounted remarkably low within a new aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward.
The electric motor contributes a healthy 165 bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 alone produces a remarkable 654 bhp and 546 lb-ft. The headline combined figure is 819 bhp, though Ferrari judiciously refrains from quoting a peak combined torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. Nevertheless, it’s safe to assume this combined torque is exceptionally potent. In terms of weight, the V6 unit is approximately 30 kg lighter than a comparable Ferrari V8. It’s mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, and the long, rectangular battery pack resides discreetly behind the seats.
No Ferrari would be complete without a sophisticated suite of electronic chassis management systems, and the 296 is no exception. Ferrari has introduced its 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 steering rack sensor, provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of both driver intent and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data is then used to optimize systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, maximizing cornering speeds while upholding unwavering stability and driver confidence. A novel application of this technology is the ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and above. Coupled with the 296’s brake-by-wire architecture, ABS-evo not only shortens braking distances but also enhances braking performance during trail braking into corners, a crucial technique for maximizing lap times.
In a departure from its usual focus on drag reduction, Ferrari is deploying its active aerodynamics technology on the 296 GTB to generate downforce. The company claims a significant 360 kg of downforce at 155 mph, with a substantial 100 kg of that figure attributed to the deployable rear wing.
The thermal management system is a masterclass in engineering. Two radiators located in the front handle engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers dedicated to battery cooling. Hot air is expelled from the underbody to prevent interference with the cooling air directed towards the intercoolers along the car’s flanks. The small apertures beneath the headlamps are specifically designed to channel air for brake cooling. Furthermore, the roofline-integrated rear wing plays a crucial role in creating a “virtual” rear screen, effectively guiding airflow to the rear of the car as if it were following a sculpted surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid not only to the ducting and the rear diffuser but also to the underbody’s ride height, optimizing the effectiveness of these crucial downforce-generating surfaces.
The pre-production 296 GTBs we sampled on the circuit during the launch event were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing applications and incorporates additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements at the front, contributing an extra 20 kg of front downforce. The package also extends to the interior, with more carbon fiber trim (such as the door panels) and exterior enhancements, resulting in a total weight saving of 12 kg. This can be further augmented to 15 kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For the ultimate track-focused setup, Assetto Fiorano-equipped cars can be fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Fiorano package also offers an exterior graphics option, inspired by the iconic livery of the 1960s 250LM.
Having spent considerable time observing and interacting with the 296 GTB, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It possesses a distinct and captivating design, echoing the timeless elegance of the 250LM, even without the more polarizing graphic options. This is a car that commands attention with its sculptural beauty.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Symphony of Power and Precision
Initiating the driving experience is as simple as a double-press of the lower steering wheel boss and selecting first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will commence its journey on electric power alone unless instructed otherwise. The intuitive haptic driver mode selectors on the steering wheel’s boss allow for easy transitions. As long as throttle inputs remain measured, the car will continue to operate purely on electric power, provided sufficient battery charge is available.
Drivers can explicitly select “EV” mode, irrespective of powertrain demands, or opt for the more aggressive “Performance” and “Qualifying” modes. In these settings, both power sources unite. Performance mode prioritizes immediate power delivery while also managing battery replenishment, whereas Qualifying mode unleashes the full, unadulterated performance potential, with battery state of charge becoming a secondary concern.
Cruising silently through urban landscapes offers an unexpectedly serene experience, and the damping calibration is so sophisticated that it transforms long journeys into remarkably comfortable affairs. Even luggage accommodation in the front ‘frunk’ is surprisingly practical, a welcome improvement over the SF90. However, the true revelation lies in unleashing the combined might of the engine and electric motor.
The immediate response when planting the throttle at low revs in a high gear is astonishing. The 296 GTB surges forward with a ferocity that momentarily makes you question the necessity of gear changes, such is its sheer potency. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that eagerly revs to 8500 rpm, the full experience when the 296 is truly unleashed is nothing short of spectacular.
The acceleration figures—a brisk 0-62 mph in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 205 mph—translate into a sensation of relentless forward propulsion that verges on the intense. It’s a feeling that elicits nervous laughter and an addictive sense of exhilaration. This is, without question, a seriously rapid automobile. The auditory experience complements the performance, with a captivating blend of turbocharger sound effects harmonizing with the tuneful rasp of the V6.
What truly distinguishes the 296 GTB is its chassis responsiveness. Ferrari’s claim of making this car “fun to drive” is not mere marketing hyperbole. It feels remarkably agile without ever becoming skittish. The steering is typically light and razor-sharp, but critically, it communicates detailed information about the road surface. While grip levels are exceptionally high, as one would expect, the car’s adjustability on the throttle is what truly ignites the driving pleasure, fostering an irresistible grin.
Despite its stated dry weight of 1470 kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a palpable lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, encouraging a fluid, collaborative driving style with minimal inputs, and rewarding the driver with exceptional accuracy and precision. The CT Off mode provides a safety net of sophisticated electronic assistance, assuring confidence even when pushing the limits. However, even with all systems disengaged, the 296’s inherent balance allows for controlled oversteer that one might not expect from a car producing 819 bhp.
On the track, the 296 GTB possesses the remarkable ability to compress even lengthy straights, and its sharpness as a precision instrument becomes even more apparent. While the power is readily available to break rear traction at numerous points around the lap, the 296 is also highly sensitive to braking and steering inputs. This sensitivity teaches the driver that precision with the controls yields the greatest rewards. The incredible turn-in accuracy and responsiveness dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Rather than easing the car into turns and allowing load to build progressively, the 296 immediately settles into its line, aided by the Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which perfectly complements the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are phenomenal and provide a joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior Design and Technology: A Glimpse into Ferrari’s Digital Future
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90, as the 296 draws heavily from its sibling. The fully digital interface, along with its accompanying haptic switchgear—liberally applied across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari stalks—presents a significant learning curve.
While undoubtedly complex, it’s important to acknowledge the vast amount of information being conveyed. The primary frustration arises when simple operations sometimes require a secondary press to register, or when there’s ambiguity about whether a command has been successfully executed. Nevertheless, the cabin undeniably exudes a special and purposeful ambiance.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict: A Triumph of Hybrid Integration
“Now it gets serious,” declared Peter Tomalin, lead tester for evo, summing up the intense competition for their Car of the Year award in 2022. The McLaren Artura and the Ferrari 296 GTB were separated by the narrowest of margins, with judges perfectly split three-three in their preferences.
The three judges who ultimately favored the Ferrari—Jethro Bovingdon, Tom Harris, and Jack Rix—lauded its “spectacular” nature, describing it as “beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever.” Bovingdon highlighted how the V6 demonstrated to McLaren how to downsize while amplifying the drama, and that it matched the Artura in sheer control but offered a more “playful and indulgent” character.
Richard Meaden’s verdict, echoing the sentiments of many, was that the 296 was “the first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further elaborated that the hybrid system was seamlessly integrated and “doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared,” attributing this to the familiarity of turbocharged V8 torque characteristics from the 488 and F8. He described the 296 as “stonkingly quick” but emphasized that its appeal wasn’t solely based on speed, crediting the V6’s character and a “soundtrack that’s always sweet and changes with throttle opening.”
While the Ferrari’s hybridisation received widespread praise for its seamless integration, a cautionary note emerged on the final night of testing when a stranded vehicle, due to a depleted battery with no apparent means of revival, highlighted a potential concern. Ferrari had indeed forewarned the testers of such possibilities and provided guidance to mitigate them. However, the possibility of an owner finding themselves in a similar predicament remains. As Gallagher observed, “the company that introduced individual rear-wheel steering to its cars can’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this happening is a huge oversight.” Fortunately for the 296, this incident occurred after all scoring had been completed.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the very best in the group. The technological interface also faced widespread criticism for its complexity. Despite these points, the 296 proved irresistibly 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…”
The consensus was clear: the 296 GTB represented a significant return to form for Ferrari, particularly after the SF90 left many feeling somewhat underwhelmed. As Sutcliffe remarked, “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.”
Pricing and the Evolving Supercar Landscape
When a vehicle is so laden with cutting-edge technology, there’s always an inherent risk that it may become less than the sum of its parts. This was a sentiment evo experienced with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power output, sometimes felt unnerving due to its challenging driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB represents a different proposition entirely. As demonstrated by its joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura at the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, it feels far more organic. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a remarkable sweet spot, effectively redefining what a supercar in the £250,000 price bracket can achieve. A more potent “Versione Speciale” variant is anticipated, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. The hope is that the standard 296’s inexplicably natural feel will be retained.
It is this crucial aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we sincerely hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900 bhp is an obscene amount of power for a series-production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm the chassis if the rest of the car isn’t meticulously engineered to complement it. If Lamborghini has indeed achieved this balance—and their track record with the Revuelto offers substantial reason for optimism—then we are poised for an exhilarating twin-test, potentially featuring a combined output of over 1700 bhp.
Alternatively, we could expand this into a 2400 bhp triple threat by including the McLaren 750S, which, by comparison, now absurdly appears as the ‘minnow’ of the class with ‘only’ 740 bhp. However, as noted, it brings a relatively petite 1389 kg kerb weight to the table, ensuring a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw engagement, ergonomic correctness, the crispness of its steering, and the deftness of its chassis consistently mark it out against the comparatively more remote feeling of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications
Engine: V6, 2992cc, twin-turbocharged, with integrated electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819 bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546 lb-ft @ 6250rpm (Engine Torque)
Weight: 1470 kg (dry) (566 bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205 mph
Price: £250,000+ (approximate starting price)
The automotive world is in a constant state of evolution, and the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a testament to this progress. If you’re captivated by this fusion of Italian passion and cutting-edge hybrid technology, and are curious to explore how this benchmark supercar might fit into your driving aspirations, we encourage you to connect with our expert team. Discover the unparalleled thrill of the 296 GTB and begin your journey into the future of performance driving today.
