The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterpiece Challenging the Supercar Status Quo
For a decade, the rumble of a naturally aspirated V10 or the thunder of a twin-turbo V8 has defined the apex predator of the automotive world. As an industry professional with ten years immersed in the world of high-performance vehicles, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of these mechanical marvels. However, the automotive landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, and few vehicles embody this transition more profoundly than the Ferrari 296 GTB. This Italian stallion, with its revolutionary V6 hybrid powertrain, isn’t just a new model; it’s a bold statement, a paradigm shift, and a benchmark that emerging rivals, like the much-anticipated Lamborghini Temerario, must now contend with.
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked an unprecedented departure for the brand’s mid-engined supercar lineage. Gone is the celebrated twin-turbo V8 that graced numerous multi-award-winning models. In its place, Ferrari has introduced a potent, newly developed twin-turbo V6, augmented by a sophisticated electric motor. This strategic pivot places the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a supercar segment that is only now beginning its comprehensive embrace of hybrid propulsion.
In its initial iteration, the 296 GTB’s primary adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its sonorous, naturally aspirated V10 symphony. While the Huracán might have trailed in sheer horsepower compared to the electric-assisted Ferrari, it compensated with an undeniable charisma, the raw, unadulterated noise of its V10, and an engaging driving experience that captivated enthusiasts. Simultaneously, the ferocious McLaren 720S, a masterclass in twin-turbo V8 efficiency and power-to-weight superiority, posed another formidable challenge. While the subsequent McLaren 750S represents an evolution of that theme, emphasizing brute force and aerodynamic prowess, the 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid V8-powered Temerario emerges as Lamborghini’s direct riposte to Maranello’s 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta. This is not just about raw numbers; it’s a sophisticated technological duel.
The 296 GTB certainly possesses the firepower to command attention. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, working in concert with an electric motor, drives only the rear wheels – a departure from the all-wheel-drive architecture of the SF90 Stradale. This setup allows the 819bhp 296 GTB to shatter established supercar conventions, delivering performance figures that redefine what’s possible.
It’s easy to become fixated on such awe-inspiring power outputs, leading one to ponder the ultimate limit of such performance escalation – a question that the 296 GTB itself seems eager to push – and, perhaps more practically, where one might legitimately deploy such exhilarating velocity. But that, as they say, is a story for another day.
What makes the 296 GTB truly significant is its status as the first V6-powered Ferrari road car. While the delectable 246 GT Dino holds a special place in history, it never bore the iconic Prancing Horse emblem during its production. Furthermore, the 296 GTB pioneers Ferrari’s “hot-vee” turbocharger configuration, where the turbos are mounted within the V of the engine cylinders, promoting a more compact design and faster spool-up times. As a plug-in hybrid, it also offers an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles, a feature that adds a layer of versatility previously unimaginable in a car of this caliber.
The compact V6 engine is mounted low in a newly engineered aluminum chassis. To enhance agility and responsiveness, the wheelbase has been shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, and the occupants are positioned slightly further forward. The electric motor alone contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 engine independently churns out a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined output, a headline-grabbing 819bhp, is truly electrifying. Ferrari strategically refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the engine and electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this synergistic force is immense, pushing the boundaries of road-legal performance. Weighing in at 30kg less than its V8 counterparts, the V6 is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a slender, oblong structure, is strategically located behind the seats, contributing to the car’s balanced weight distribution.
No Ferrari is complete without an arsenal of advanced electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. The innovation here is Ferrari’s six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS (six-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This sophisticated unit precisely measures acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. It effectively replaces traditional yaw sensors and, in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of the driver’s intentions and the available grip at the tire contact patch. This data is then used to optimize systems like the Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, maximizing cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. A significant advancement is the introduction of ABS-evo, enabled in RACE mode and above. This system, leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, not only shortens braking distances but also dramatically enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners, a testament to the car’s track-honed capabilities.
For the first time in its road-car history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not primarily for drag reduction, but for downforce generation. The company claims an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph. A substantial portion of this, up to 100kg, is generated by the active rear wing, which deploys seamlessly from the rear deck.
The thermal management system of the 296 GTB is a masterpiece of engineering. Two radiators in the front manage engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two condensers dedicated to battery temperature regulation. Hot air is strategically expelled from the underbody to avoid disrupting the flow of cool air directed into the intercoolers situated along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to cooling the brakes, while a subtle wing integrated into the roofline creates a “virtual” rear screen, expertly channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a precisely shaped surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is sculpted from beneath the car. This area benefits from meticulous attention, not only in the design of the undertray and rear diffuser but also in the precise ground clearance, which is critical to maximizing the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
Our initial experience with the 296 GTB circuits was with models equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This bespoke upgrade swaps the standard dampers for race-derived Multimatic units, mirroring those found in Ferrari’s GT racing programs. It also introduces additional carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front, contributing an extra 20kg of downforce. The cabin also features more extensive use of carbon fiber, including the door panels, and the exterior benefits from carbon fiber accents, contributing to a net weight saving of 12kg. This can be further enhanced by an additional 3kg by specifying the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For the ultimate track-focused setup, the Assetto Fiorano package offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an alternative to the standard Pilot Sport 4S. Furthermore, cars optioned with the Fiorano pack can be adorned with an exterior graphics package, a tasteful nod to the iconic 250LM from the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB “in the metal,” I can attest to its striking beauty. It possesses a distinctive aesthetic, a departure from anything else on the road, and even without the optional graphics, it elegantly echoes the spirit of the legendary 250LM.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: A Symphony of Power and Precision
Engaging the 296 GTB is an intuitive process. A double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss activates the ignition, followed by selecting first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing for silent, electric-only propulsion unless prompted otherwise via the haptic driver mode selectors on the steering wheel boss. With judicious throttle application and sufficient battery charge, the 296 GTB can glide through urban landscapes on pure electric power.
For those seeking to immerse themselves entirely in the electric experience, a dedicated EV mode can be engaged, irrespective of powertrain demands. Alternatively, Performance and Qualifying modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid system. In Performance mode, both power sources collaborate to deliver exhilarating acceleration while simultaneously replenishing the battery. Qualifying mode, however, prioritizes absolute maximum performance, with no regard for the battery’s state of charge.
The ability to glide silently through picturesque villages is an unexpected pleasure. The damping system is remarkably sophisticated, providing a surprisingly comfortable experience for covering long distances. The front luggage compartment, or “frunk,” offers a reasonable amount of space, a practical advantage over the SF90 Stradale. But, as we all know, the true question on everyone’s mind is: what does it feel like when both the engine and electric motor are unleashed to their full potential?
The answer is profound. Prod the throttle at low revs in a high gear, and the 296 GTB simply leaps forward, entirely free of perceptible turbo lag. This immediate surge of potency makes you question the necessity of gear changes, such is the overwhelming acceleration. However, with eight gears at your disposal and an engine that revs eagerly to 8500rpm, the experience when fully uncorking the 296 is nothing short of astonishing. The acceleration figures—a blistering 0-62mph in under 3 seconds and a top speed exceeding 200mph—translate to a sensation that is both thrilling and slightly unnerving, a visceral blend of hold-on-tight exhilaration and nervous laughter, yet undeniably addictive. This is a seriously rapid machine. And the sound? It’s equally captivating, with a rich V6 rasp harmoniously interwoven with evocative turbocharger acoustics.
Ride and Handling: The Art of Agile Excitement
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is the uncanny responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered to be “fun to drive” is not hyperbole; it’s a palpable reality. The handling is remarkably agile without ever feeling nervous or unpredictable. The steering, typically light and swift, also conveys a remarkable level of road feel, offering nuanced feedback to the driver. While the grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s ability to be modulated by throttle inputs is what truly ignites the grin factor.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a delightful lack of inertia throughout the entire car, encouraging the driver to work with it. Small, precise inputs elicit immediate and accurate responses, making for an incredibly engaging driving experience. Engaging CT Off mode allows for audacious exploration of the car’s limits, with the reassuring knowledge that an exceptionally intelligent electronic brain is still monitoring and assisting. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s inherent balance allows for controlled oversteer, a feat one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp.
On a circuit, the 296 possesses the ability to condense even the longest start-finish straight, highlighting its sharp, precise nature. While the power is ample to break rear-wheel traction at multiple points around the lap, the 296 is acutely sensitive to both braking and steering inputs. This demands precision from the driver, rewarding accurate control with an even greater level of engagement. The turn-in accuracy and immediate response dramatically shorten the corner entry phase. Rather than gently easing into turns and allowing loads to build, the 296 settles instantly, aided by its Multimatic dampers. This is beautifully complemented by the hyper-quick steering and the enhanced body control offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more mature sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are phenomenal, providing an addictive joy lap after lap.
Interior Design: A Blend of Familiarity and Future Shock
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90 Stradale, as the 296 GTB draws heavily from that flagship model. The fully digital interface, coupled with the haptic switchgear liberally applied to the steering wheel and the traditional Ferrari pods flanking it, presents a unique, albeit occasionally challenging, user experience.
It is undeniably complex, burdened by the sheer volume of information it must convey. The most frustrating aspect can be the occasional need for a second press for simple operations that fail to register on the first attempt, or uncertainty about whether a command has been successfully registered. Despite these minor ergonomic hurdles, the interior undeniably feels like a special place to be, exuding an aura of exclusivity and advanced technology.
The Verdict of the Experts: A Return to Form
As participants in the evo Car of the Year 2022 awards, the consensus was clear: the Ferrari 296 GTB represents a significant leap forward. The competition was fierce, with the McLaren Artura running remarkably close. Ultimately, the judges were divided, with a split decision reflecting the nuanced strengths of each contender.
Those who favored the Ferrari, including myself, were captivated by its spectacular nature. “Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever,” enthused Jethro Bovingdon. “Its V6 shows McLaren how to downsize while amplifying the drama, and it matches the Artura in sheer control, yet feels more playful and indulgent.”
Richard Meaden’s assessment resonated with many: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further commented on the hybrid system’s seamless integration, noting that it “doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared, likely because we’ve grown accustomed to the torquey characteristics of turbocharged V8s.” He lauded the 296’s “stonkingly quick” performance, emphasizing that it “doesn’t rely solely on speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which delivers a soundtrack that’s always sweet and evolves with throttle opening.”
The seamless integration of the Ferrari’s hybridization was widely praised. However, one notable incident involved the car being stranded after the battery depleted, with no apparent means of recovery. While Ferrari had provided warnings and guidance to prevent such occurrences, it highlighted a potential vulnerability for owners. As Gallagher noted, “For the company that pioneered individual rear-wheel steering, the inability to engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this is a significant oversight.” Fortunately, this occurred after scoring, mitigating its impact on the overall assessment.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering, while impressive, divided opinion. Brake feel, while excellent, didn’t quite reach the lofty standards set by some competitors, and the tech interface faced widespread criticism for its complexity. Nevertheless, the 296’s overall allure was irresistible. “I initially thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference,” confessed Vivian, “but I ended up somewhat bewitched by its spooky directional changes, amazing damping, and looney-tunes levels of grip, coupled with a linearity of seemingly endless power…”
Peter Tomalin, editor of evo, summarized the sentiment: “The 296 is far more successful than the SF90 because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural and far less intrusive.” He concluded, “Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learned from that car, and distilled it into a series-production model that is one of its very best.”
Price and Competitive Landscape: Redefining Supercar Value
With such an immense infusion of cutting-edge technology, there’s always an inherent risk that a car might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a sentiment we encountered with the SF90 Stradale, which, while dazzling in its power, proved somewhat inscrutable in its driving characteristics.
The 296 GTB, however, is a different proposition entirely. At the 2022 evo Car of the Year competition, where it achieved a joint third-place finish alongside the McLaren Artura, it demonstrated a much more organic feel. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a genuine sweet spot, effectively redefining what a supercar in the approximately £250,000 price bracket can be. A “Versione Speciale” variant, a codename for a more potent iteration, is anticipated this year, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. Our fervent hope is that the standard 296’s inexplicably natural driving feel is retained.
It is this fundamental 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 to wield in a series-production supercar, power that could easily overwhelm the chassis if not expertly integrated. If Lamborghini has achieved the same level of brilliance demonstrated in the Revuelto, then we are poised for an epic twin test, potentially featuring a combined output of around 1700bhp!
Alternatively, we could escalate the stakes to a 2400bhp triple threat by including the McLaren 750S. This vehicle, with its comparatively modest 740bhp, would be the “minnow” in this elite group. However, its significant advantage lies in its remarkably light kerb weight of 1389kg, affording it a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, unfiltered character, its ergonomic perfection, the crispness of its steering, and the exquisite deftness of its chassis undoubtedly set it apart from the comparatively more remote feel of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: Starting from £250,000+
The Ferrari 296 GTB is more than just a car; it’s a testament to innovation and a thrilling glimpse into the future of supercars. If you’re ready to experience this revolutionary driving dynamic for yourself, we invite you to connect with our team to explore bespoke ownership opportunities and discover how you can be part of this electrifying new era of automotive performance.
