Ferrari 296 GTB 2025 Review: The SupercarBenchmark for Lamborghini’s Temerario
Introduction: The Evolution of the Hybrid Supercar
The Ferrari 296 GTB, since its unveiling in 2022, has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of the mid-engined supercar segment. Moving away from the highly successful, award-winning twin-turbo V8, Ferrari introduced a potent twin-turbo V6 engine enhanced with electric power. This revolutionary V6 hybrid architecture positioned the 296 GTB as a trailblazer in a segment still in the early stages of its electrifying transition. While the initial competitor was the naturally aspirated Lamborghini Huracán with its V10 charisma, the arrival of the 903bhp Lamborghini Temerario, featuring a 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain, represents a direct and formidable challenge to Ferrari’s groundbreaking V6 Berlinetta.
Power, Performance, and the Hybrid Revolution
At its core, the Ferrari 296 GTB is a technical marvel. Powered by an all-new 120-degree twin-turbo V6 engine and an electric motor driving the rear wheels exclusively (unlike the four-wheel-drive SF90), the 296 GTB delivers a staggering total of 819bhp. This remarkable power output has undoubtedly pushed the boundaries of what is possible in a series production supercar, prompting questions about the limits of power escalation in the automotive world and the feasibility of utilizing such performance in real-world scenarios.
The 296 GTB stands out as the first Ferrari road car to feature a V6 engine (the iconic 246 GT Dino never officially wore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era) and the first to incorporate a “hot-vee” turbocharger setup. Furthermore, it is a plug-in hybrid with an estimated EV-only range of approximately 15 miles. The lightweight V6 is strategically mounted low in a new aluminum chassis, reducing the wheelbase by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors and repositioning the driver slightly forward for enhanced dynamics.
The powertrain specifications are awe-inspiring: the electric motor contributes 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone produces a stunning 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari refrains from disclosing the combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the engine and electric motor, though it is safe to assume the total torque is substantial. The V6 unit is 30kg lighter than equivalent Ferrari V8s and is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The battery pack, a long, oblong structure, is situated behind the seats.
Aerodynamics, Chassis, and Driving Dynamics
No Ferrari would be complete without a sophisticated suite of electronic chassis systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari developed the six-axis sensor system known as 6w-CDS, which measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z axes. This system replaces the traditional yaw sensor and, in conjunction with sensors mounted on the steering rack, allows the car to understand driver input and grip levels, optimizing systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to maximize cornering speed without compromising stability. Additionally, the 296 introduces ABS-evo, an advanced anti-lock braking system enabled by brake-by-wire technology. In RACE mode and above, ABS-evo shortens braking distances and enhances stability during trail braking.
For the first time, Ferrari utilizes active aerodynamics to increase downforce rather than reduce drag. The car generates a quoted 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with the rear wing, integrated into the bodywork, contributing up to 100kg of that figure. The design features two radiators in the nose for engine and gearbox cooling, and two condensers for battery cooling. Hot air is expelled underneath the car to avoid interfering with the intercoolers mounted along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps draw in air for brake cooling, while a roofline spoiler channels air to the rear, creating a “virtual” rear screen.
The majority of the 296 GTB’s downforce is generated under the car. Ferrari has paid meticulous attention not only to airflow management and the rear diffuser but also to the height of the underbody, maximizing the efficiency of the downforce-generating surfaces. This focus on engineering innovation ensures that the Ferrari 296 GTB delivers exceptional grip and stability.
The Assetto Fiorano Package and Aesthetic Appeal
The 296 GTB variants tested at the launch were equipped with the Assetto Fiorano pack. This optional package replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing and adds further carbon aerodynamic devices to the nose, increasing front downforce by 20kg. Inside, the Fiorano pack includes more carbon fiber elements, such as the door panels, contributing to a 12kg weight saving. This can be further reduced to 15kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. Additionally, Fiorano cars can be ordered with exterior graphics inspired by the 250LM from the 1960s.
In person, the 296 GTB is a visually striking machine. Its design is unique, evoking the aesthetic of the 250LM from the 1960s, even without the optional graphics package.
Performance and 0-62mph Acceleration
To begin driving, the driver presses the bottom of the steering wheel boss twice and engages first gear. The 296 GTB always starts in Hybrid mode, allowing it to pull away using electric power alone unless explicitly instructed otherwise via the haptic driver mode “buttons” on the left side of the steering wheel. As long as the battery has sufficient charge, the car can be driven on electric power alone with light throttle inputs.
Drivers can choose to “force” EV mode regardless of powertrain demands, or utilize the Performance and Qualifying modes. In Performance mode, both power sources work together with a focus on maintaining battery charge, while Qualifying mode prioritizes ultimate performance with less concern for battery level.
Driving quietly through villages is an unexpectedly pleasant experience. The damping is so sophisticated that it makes for a surprisingly comfortable Grand Tourer, and there is even a reasonable luggage capacity in the “frunk,” a departure from the SF90. However, the true appeal lies in unleashing the combined power of the engine and electric motor.
When accelerating at low revs in a high gear, the 296 GTB bolts forward instantly, leaving the driver questioning the need for gears such is its potency. With eight gears and an engine revving up to 8500rpm, the full performance of the 296 is breathtaking.
As the figures suggest (0-62mph in 2.9 seconds, top speed of 205mph), the rate of acceleration is exhilarating, evoking a sense of thrilling intensity that is both addictive and confidence-inspiring. This is a seriously fast car. The soundtrack is also impressive, with turbo spooling effects complementing the beautiful V6 rasp.
Ride and Handling: The Pursuit of Fun
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is its exceptionally responsive chassis and Ferrari’s commitment to making the car “fun to drive.” The 296 GTB feels highly agile without becoming nervous or twitchy. The steering is characteristically light and fast, but it also offers excellent feedback. While grip levels are very high, the car remains throttle-adjustable in a way that inspires confidence and elicits a grin.
It feels significantly lighter than its dry weight of 1470kg, exhibiting a lack of inertia that encourages the driver to work with the car, make small inputs, and savor its precision. The CT Off mode allows for remarkable confidence, with the assurance of an intelligent electronic brain monitoring the vehicle. Even with all aids deactivated, the natural balance of the 296 enables a level of oversteer that would be unimaginable in a car with 819bhp.
On the track, the 296 GTB makes even long straights feel short. The power is more than capable of breaking traction at the rear at numerous points around the lap, but the 296 also responds acutely to braking and steering inputs. Precision is rewarded with the greatest performance. The incredible turn-in accuracy and response dramatically shorten corner entries. Instead of easing the car into turns, the 296 sets immediately with its Multimatic dampers, the ultra-fast steering perfectly complementing the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even after driving a conventional sports car, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are phenomenal and rewarding lap after lap.
The Interior: Digital Sophistication
The interior architecture of the 296 GTB borrows heavily from the SF90, featuring a purely digital interface and haptic switchgear. While this setup is undoubtedly complex, it is necessary to convey the vast amount of information the 296 generates. The most frustrating aspect is the need for a second press for operations that don’t register the first time, or the uncertainty of whether an input has been successful. Despite these usability challenges, the cabin feels special and premium.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict
The 296 GTB’s introduction marked a significant moment in automotive history. At the evo Car of the Year 2022 competition, the 296 GTB was the focal point of intense discussion. There was
