Ferrari 296 GTB Review 2025 – Will the New Lamborghini Temerario Set a New Benchmark?
When the Ferrari 296 GTB arrived in 2022, it represented a seismic shift in Maranello’s supercar philosophy. Moving away from the long-standing twin-turbo V8 configuration, the 296 GTB embraced a new twin-turbo V6 engine integrated with a sophisticated electric hybrid system. This innovation positioned the car at the forefront of a market segment that was gradually transitioning towards hybridization.
In its early days, the Ferrari 296 GTB faced formidable rivals like the Lamborghini Huracán, whose naturally aspirated V10 engine provided a characteristic rumble and raw auditory experience. Similarly, it competed with the formidable McLaren 720S, which maintained a twin-turbo V8 architecture. While the McLaren 750S is an evolution of its predecessor, focusing on power-to-weight advantages, the impending Lamborghini Temerario— boasting 903 horsepower and reaching 10,000 rpm— represents Lamborghini’s direct response to the 819-horsepower hybrid Berlinetta from Ferrari.
The 296 GTB certainly packs a punch. Its all-new twin-turbo V6 engine, arranged in a 120-degree configuration, combined with an electric motor, exclusively powers the rear wheels (unlike the SF90). The resulting 819 horsepower figure shattered conventional supercar boundaries.
It is difficult to ignore such a staggering power output, and one often wonders where this performance escalation will end (presumably not with the 296, and certainly not with the Temerario). Furthermore, the question of where one could possibly utilize such performance on public roads is also worth considering, but that’s a separate discussion.
The 296 GTB stands as Ferrari’s first V6-powered road car (the delightful 246 GT Dino never bore the Prancing Horse emblem during its production run). It also features a ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation and operates as a plug-in hybrid with an electric-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is mounted low in a newly designed aluminum chassis, featuring a 50mm reduction in wheelbase compared to its V8-engined counterparts, with the occupants positioned slightly further forward.
The electric motor delivers 165 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque, while the V6 alone produces a remarkable 654 horsepower and 546 pound-feet of torque. The combined peak power is the headline 819 horsepower figure; however, Ferrari chooses not to publish the combined peak torque, likely due to the complexities of how the engine and electric motor interact, although it is safe to assume the figure is substantial. Overall, the V6 unit saves 30kg compared to Ferrari’s V8 engines and is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, elongated structure, is situated behind the seats.
A Ferrari is not complete without a suite of acronyms denoting sophisticated electronic chassis control systems. For the 296, Ferrari developed what is known as the six-axis sensor, or 6w-CDS, capable of measuring acceleration and rotational velocity along the X, Y, and Z axes.
This system replaces the conventional yaw sensor. When combined with the sensor mounted on the steering rack, it allows the car to understand not only the driver’s inputs but also the grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data is used to optimize systems such as Side Slip Control (SSC) and the active E-Diff, maximizing cornering speed without compromising vehicle stability. Additionally, the 296 features a new system called ABS-evo (an aptly named innovation) which, in RACE mode and above, utilizes a brake-by-wire system to shorten braking distances and enhance control during trail braking.
For the first time, Ferrari employs its active aerodynamics technology not to reduce drag, but to increase downforce. The company claims a figure of 360kg at 155 mph, with up to 100kg of that generated by a rear wing that deploys from the back of the car.
Two radiators are positioned in the nose to cool the engine and gearbox, along with two additional condensers for battery cooling. Hot air is expelled underneath to avoid interfering with the airflow directed into the intercoolers along the sides. The small apertures below the headlights are designed to draw in air for brake cooling, while the wing integrated into the rear roofline helps create a ‘virtual rear screen’, channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a physical surface.
The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated under the car. Significant attention was paid not only to channeling the airflow and the rear diffuser but also to the height of the underbody relative to the ground to enhance the effectiveness of the downforce-generating surfaces.
The Evolution of Ferrari’s V6: A Technological Leap
The Ferrari 296 GTB, with its revolutionary V6 engine, marked a paradigm shift in the brand’s lineage, distancing itself from the long-cherished V8 architecture. This strategic move reflects a broader industry trend toward engine downsizing and the integration of electrified powertrains in high-performance vehicles.
Key technological advancements include:
‘Hot-Vee’ turbocharging: This design places the exhaust manifolds and turbos between the cylinder banks, significantly reducing the distance for exhaust gases to reach the turbines. This configuration enhances throttle response and spool-up time, making the engine feel more linear and responsive.
V6 architecture: Ferrari’s decision to adopt a 120-degree V6 configuration allows for a lower center of gravity and a narrower engine profile, which improves vehicle dynamics and packaging.
Plug-in hybrid (PHEV): The 296 GTB incorporates a plug-in hybrid system, providing a purely electric driving mode for urban use and enhancing overall efficiency without compromising performance.
This technological evolution is not without its challenges. The integration of a V6 engine alongside an electric motor and battery system requires careful management of weight, complexity, and thermal dynamics. The Ferrari 296 GTB specs reflect these considerations, with the V6 weighing 30kg less than a V8, and the battery positioned strategically to maintain balance.
Lamborghini’s Response: The Temerario Challenge
The arrival of the Lamborghini Temerario signifies a direct challenge to Ferrari’s dominance in the supercar market. With an output exceeding 900 horsepower and a redline reaching 10,000 rpm, the Temerario promises a new level of performance.
Lamborghini’s strategy appears to be leveraging its expertise in naturally aspirated engines while embracing hybridization. The Temerario aims to deliver raw power and dramatic sound, traditions deeply ingrained in Lamborghini’s heritage, while incorporating advanced electric hybrid technology.
The competition between these two marques represents a clash of philosophies:
Ferrari 296 GTB: A focus on technical sophistication, seamless integration of hybridization, and balanced performance.
Lamborghini Temerario: A commitment to raw power, high-revving engines, and uncompromised performance.
This dynamic rivalry will undoubtedly push the boundaries of supercar innovation, forcing both brands to redefine what is possible in terms of power, handling, and driving experience.
Driving Experience: The 296 GTB’s Remarkable Agility
The 296 GTB offers a driving experience that belies its impressive performance figures. The powertrain, a seamless combination of the twin-turbo V6 and the electric motor, delivers instant acceleration with virtually no turbo lag. The ability of the car to rocket forward from low revs in a high gear is remarkable, making the need for gears almost redundant.
Performance and Handling
As the specifications suggest, the acceleration is intoxicating, bordering on visceral. The 0-62 mph time is exceptionally rapid, inducing a nervous excitement that is both addictive and thrilling. Despite its power, the 296 GTB remains composed and manageable, thanks to its advanced chassis systems.
The ride and handling are among the car’s strongest attributes. Ferrari’s goal of making the car ‘fun to drive’ has been achieved with remarkable success. The steering is precise and responsive, offering excellent feedback to the driver. The car feels light and agile, encouraging the driver to push its limits with confidence.
The use of Side Slip Control (SSC) and the active E-Diff ensures stability even at high speeds. The ABS-evo system, integrated with the brake-by-wire technology, further enhances braking performance, particularly during trail braking maneuvers.
Assetto Fiorano Pack
For those seeking the ultimate performance experience, the Assetto Fiorano pack offers significant enhancements. It replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic items developed for GT racing and adds further carbon aerodynamic elements that increase front downforce.
The pack also includes carbon fiber interior panels and exterior elements, reducing overall weight by 12kg. Optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires replace the standard Pilot Sport 4S tires, providing enhanced grip for track driving. Cars optioned with the Fiorano package can also be ordered with an exterior graphics package inspired by the 1960s 250LM.
Interior Design: Innovation Meets Usability
