Ferrari 296 GTB 2025: The Hybrid Supercar That Redefined Expectation
A Benchmark of Performance and Technical Sophistication
The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB represents a landmark in the evolution of high-performance automotive engineering. For the first time in the marque’s storied history, a production road-going Ferrari has shed its celebrated twin-turbo V8 engine in favor of a state-of-the-art, 120-degree twin-turbocharged V6. This ambitious shift to a V6 hybrid architecture was not merely a cosmetic redesign; it was a strategic gambit to redefine what a mid-engined supercar can achieve, particularly as the segment moves toward electrification.
For years, Ferrari 296 GTB reviews have highlighted this transition as a pivotal moment, challenging traditional notions of power delivery, engine character, and driver engagement. While the 296 GTB had the Lamborghini Huracán as a direct competitor—its V10 engine known for its charismatic growl and raw auditory appeal—the Prancing Horse positioned itself at the vanguard of the performance hybrid revolution. It dared to deviate from established formulas, introducing technologies that have since become benchmarks in the ultra-luxury segment.
However, the Ferrari 296 GTB price has placed it squarely against some of the most formidable hypercars on the market. Its launch prompted immediate comparisons with the McLaren 720S, a titan of the automotive world. Now, the landscape has shifted dramatically with the arrival of the Lamborghini Temerario, which boasts an awe-inspiring 903-horsepower output from a twin-turbo V8 and a screaming redline of 10,000 rpm. This, along with the McLaren 750S’s impressive power-to-weight ratio, has set a new, fiercely competitive benchmark that the 296 GTB must now benchmark itself against.
The Power of Hybrid Synergy
The 296 GTB packs a punch that belies its smaller engine size. With a combined output of 819 horsepower from its V6 and electric motor—making it one of the most powerful production Ferraris of its generation—it has set new standards for acceleration and dynamic performance. This output is achieved through a meticulous integration of a naturally aspirated V6 engine and an electric motor, specifically tailored to deliver power and torque at different ends of the rev range.
The 296 GTB is the first Ferrari V6 powered car to hit the roads, featuring a revolutionary ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger setup that ensures optimal efficiency and minimal turbo lag. Furthermore, it is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles, allowing for silent, emissions-free driving in urban environments. The 296 GTB prioritizes a lightweight, aluminum chassis with a wheelbase that is 50mm shorter than previous V8 models, positioning the occupants slightly further forward for improved handling and driver involvement.
The electric motor provides a substantial 165 bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 alone contributes a staggering 654 bhp and 546 lb-ft. Ferrari wisely refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complexities of how the two power sources operate synergistically. However, it is safe to assume that the combined torque is substantial. The V6 engine saves approximately 30 kg compared to its V8 predecessors and is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long rectangular structure, is neatly housed behind the seats, keeping the center of gravity low.
Innovation Through Six Degrees
No Ferrari would be complete without a suite of acronyms denoting its sophisticated electronic chassis systems. The 296 GTB introduces what Ferrari calls a six-axis sensor (6w-CDS) that measures acceleration and rotational speed in three dimensions (X, Y, and Z).
This 6w-CDS sensor replaces traditional yaw sensors and, when combined with the steering rack sensor, enables the car to understand not only the driver’s intentions but also the grip limits at the contact patch. It seamlessly orchestrates other systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining stability. A revolutionary innovation is the ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and higher, which uses brake-by-wire technology to shorten braking distances and improve control during trail braking.
For the first time, Ferrari utilizes active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to generate downforce. The system produces a quoted figure of 360 kg at 155 mph, with up to 100 kg of that being generated by the rear wing that deploys from the rear deck.
The car features two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox cooling, as well as two condensers for battery cooling. Hot air is expelled from the underside to prevent interference with the intercoolers located along the flanks. The small apertures below the headlamps are dedicated to cooling the brakes, while the roofline-integrated wing creates a “virtual” rear screen, channeling air to the rear of the car as if guided by a solid surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated underneath the car, with particular attention paid to channeling airflow and optimizing the rear diffuser height to maximize the effectiveness of the downforce-generating surfaces.
The Assetto Fiorano Treatment: Race-Ready Performance
The Assetto Fiorano (AF) pack represents the pinnacle of 296 GTB performance, transforming the already formidable supercar into a track-ready weapon. This optional package replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing and adds further carbon-fiber aerodynamic devices to the nose, increasing front downforce by 20 kg.
In the cabin, the AF pack incorporates more carbon fiber, such as lightweight door panels, and extends to exterior components, contributing to an overall weight saving of 12 kg. This weight reduction increases to 15 kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. For those seeking the ultimate grip, AF-equipped cars can be ordered with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S tires. The package also includes an exterior graphics package inspired by the iconic 250LM from the 1960s.
Having spent significant time with the 296 GTB, it is clear that this is a visually stunning machine, unlike any other production Ferrari. It draws stylistic cues from the 250LM, even without the polarizing graphics pack, and achieves a timeless elegance that sets it apart.
Performance and Acceleration: A Startling Experience
Getting moving in the 296 GTB is a seamless process. A double press on the bottom of the steering wheel boss engages the first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, allowing it to move away solely on electric power unless explicitly overridden via the haptic mode selectors on the left side of the wheel. Provided the battery has sufficient charge, it will continue on electric power even under moderate throttle input.
For those who prefer complete control, the car allows for a ‘Force’ to EV mode, overriding the powertrain’s demands. Alternatively, there are Performance and Qualifying modes. In Performance mode, both power sources work together, prioritizing battery replenishment while maintaining strong performance. In Qualifying mode, it’s about ultimate performance and disregarding the battery’s state of charge.
Gliding silently through villages is an unexpected pleasure, and the damping is so sophisticated that it’s a surprisingly comfortable car for long journeys. There is even a reasonable luggage area in the ‘frunk’ up front, offering a level of practicality not typically found in hypercars. However, the real question on every enthusiast’s mind is: what does it feel like when both the engine and electric motor are properly wound up?
The answer lies in what happens when you apply throttle in a high gear at low revs: the 296 GTB acceleration is phenomenal. It simply bolts forward with no lag, making you question the necessity of gears. Still, there are eight gears to play with, and an engine that revs to 8,500 rpm. When you truly uncork the 296, the effect is absolutely startling.
As the numbers suggest—0-62 mph in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 205 mph—the rate of acceleration is of the heart-stopping variety, verging on the uncomfortable but strangely addictive at the same time. This is a seriously rapid car. It also sounds sublime, with an abundance of turbo sound effects complementing the tuneful V6 rasp.
Ride and Handling: Precision Without Nervousness
What truly impresses about the 296 GTB is the responsiveness of its chassis, and Ferrari was not exaggerating when they stated their aim was to make this car “fun to drive.” It feels highly agile without becoming nervous; the steering is typically light and fast, but with excellent feedback. While grip levels are extremely high, the car is also throttle-adjustable in a way that cannot help but bring a smile to your face.
It feels much lighter than its 1,470 kg (dry) weight figure suggests, with a lack of inertia that encourages interaction, encouraging small inputs and reveling in its accuracy and precision. The CT Off mode allows you to take extreme liberties with the reassuring knowledge that an electronic brain far more intelligent than your own is supervising. Even with all systems off, the 296 GTB’s natural balance allows for controlled oversteer in a way that seems improbable for a car with 819 bhp.
On the track, the 296
