Ferrari 296 GTB 2025 Review: Maranello’s Hybrid Dynamo Faces the Lamborghini Temerario Challenge
The landscape of hyper-performance automotive engineering has undergone a profound paradigm shift, a transformation driven by the relentless pursuit of efficiency, sustainability, and sheer, unadulterated speed. At the vanguard of this revolution stands the Ferrari 296 GTB, a technological marvel that has redefined the standards for modern supercars. As Maranello’s pioneering mid-engine hybrid asset continues to dominate its class, the industry eagerly anticipates the arrival of Lamborghini’s next-generation hybrid hypercar, the Temerario, which promises to challenge the 296 GTB’s supremacy. This comprehensive review delves into the intricacies of the Ferrari 296 GTB, a V6 hybrid supercar that sets the benchmark for performance, innovation, and driver engagement.
A Revolution in Powertrain Engineering
The introduction of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked a seismic departure from tradition for the Prancing Horse. Dispensing with the award-winning twin-turbo V8 engine, Ferrari introduced a groundbreaking twin-turbo V6 unit, augmented by a cutting-edge electric powertrain. This bold move strategically positioned the 296 GTB at the forefront of the segment’s transition to hybrid technology, even as rivals are only now catching up.
In its debut years, the Ferrari 296 GTB faced formidable competition from the Lamborghini Huracán, a legend powered by a naturally-aspirated V10 engine. While the Huracán boasted undeniable V10 charisma and a raw, visceral soundtrack, it paled in comparison to the 296 GTB’s staggering power output. Simultaneously, the 296 GTB contended with the McLaren 720S, a twin-turbo V8 powerhouse. The current iteration, the McLaren 750S, remains a refined evolution of that V8 philosophy, emphasizing power-to-weight supremacy. However, the most significant rivalry emerges with Lamborghini’s Temerario, a rumored 903-horsepower V8 hybrid that appears to be Lamborghini’s direct response to Maranello’s 819-horsepower hybrid masterpiece.
The sheer power figures of the Ferrari 296 GTB are enough to induce whiplash. The 296 GTB, the first V6-powered Ferrari road car in the post-Prancing Horse era (the classic Dino 246 GT never wore the iconic emblem during its production run), features a sophisticated hybrid powertrain that drives only the rear wheels—unlike the all-wheel-drive configuration of the SF90 Stradale. This configuration distinguishes the 296 GTB as a purer driver’s machine.
The electric motor alone contributes a substantial 165 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 engine delivers a breathtaking 654 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque. Combined, these power sources yield a staggering 819 horsepower. Ferrari intentionally refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, a reflection of the complex interplay between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine. However, the resulting torque is undoubtedly monumental. The V6 architecture contributes a weight saving of approximately 30 kilograms over comparable V8 engines, and the entire powertrain is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The oblong battery pack is strategically positioned behind the passenger compartment, ensuring optimal weight distribution and chassis balance.
Anatomy of Performance: Chassis and Aerodynamics
In line with Ferrari’s commitment to driving excellence, the Ferrari 296 GTB incorporates a suite of acronym-laden electronic chassis systems that elevate performance to unprecedented levels. The engineers at Maranello developed the 6w-CDS (six-axis Chassis Dynamic Sensor) to measure acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z axes.
Replacing traditional yaw sensors, the 6w-CDS works in tandem with a steering rack sensor to monitor not only driver inputs but also the grip levels at the tire contact patches. This synergy enables the vehicle’s electronic brain to optimize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and security. Furthermore, the system facilitates the innovative ABS-evo feature, active in RACE mode and above, which leverages the 296 GTB’s brake-by-wire system to significantly shorten braking distances and enhance trail-braking performance.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari has deployed active aerodynamics to enhance downforce rather than reduce drag. The firm quotes a remarkable 360 kilograms of downforce at 155 mph, with the rear wing generating up to 100 kilograms of that force through its active deployment.
In addition to the rear wing, the 296 GTB features two radiators in the front fascia dedicated to engine and transmission cooling, as well as two condensers for the battery pack. Hot air is vented through the underbody to prevent interference with the intercoolers positioned along the flanks. Small apertures below the headlamps draw in air for brake cooling, while a roof-line wing integrates a “virtual” rear screen that channels air toward the car’s rear. The majority of the 296 GTB’s downforce is generated aerodynamically beneath the vehicle, where meticulous attention has been paid to air channeling, the rear diffuser, and the ground clearance to maximize the effectiveness of the downforce-generating surfaces.
Engineered for the Ultimate Driving Experience: The Assetto Fiorano Pack
The Ferrari 296 GTB models tested on the launch circuit were all equipped with the Assetto Fiorano package. This high-performance upgrade replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic dampers derived from GT racing and incorporates additional carbon aerodynamic devices on the front fascia, increasing front downforce by 20 kilograms.
The package further enhances the 296 GTB’s exclusivity through the inclusion of lightweight carbon fiber components in the interior (such as door panels) and exterior, resulting in an overall weight reduction of 12 kilograms. This saving increases to 15 kilograms with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For enthusiasts seeking ultimate track performance, the Assetto Fiorano package is available with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S tires. The Fiorano package can also be ordered with a distinctive exterior graphics package, inspired by the iconic 250LM race car of the 1960s.
The 296 GTB’s design is a testament to Ferrari’s aesthetic genius. Having spent considerable time with the car, the verdict is clear: it is an exceptionally pretty machine, unique in its class, and an evocative homage to the 250LM, even without the divisive graphics pack.
Performance and Driver Engagement: The 0-62 mph Acceleration Benchmark
Getting the Ferrari 296 GTB underway requires a deliberate double press of the bottom of the steering wheel boss, followed by engaging first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, enabling movement solely on electric power unless overridden via the haptic driver mode ‘buttons’ on the left side of the wheel. By moderating throttle input, the car can continue on purely electric power, provided the battery charge allows.
Drivers can opt to force the car into EV mode independently of powertrain demands or select Performance and Qualifying modes. In both modes, the engine and electric motor work in tandem. Performance mode prioritizes a balance of power delivery and battery preservation, while Qualifying mode delivers maximum performance while disregarding battery state of charge.
The act of gliding silently through villages offers an unexpected sense of tranquility, and the 296 GTB’s sophisticated damping makes it a surprisingly comfortable grand tourer. The front trunk, or ‘frunk’, provides reasonable luggage space, a notable advantage over the SF90. However, the true measure of the 296 GTB’s prowess lies in its ability to unleash the full potential of its powertrain.
Planting the throttle at low revs in a high gear results in brutal, instantaneous acceleration, making one momentarily question the necessity of gear changes. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that revs to 8,500 rpm, the 296 GTB is capable of mind-bending velocity. As the performance figures suggest, the acceleration is of the white-knuckle, nervous laughter variety, verging on the extreme yet strangely addictive. This is a supremely fast car, complemented by an intoxicating soundscape of turbo spooling and the tuneful rasp of the V6.
Ride Quality, Handling Dynamics, and the ABS-evo Evolution
What truly captivates about the Ferrari 296 GTB is its chassis responsiveness. Ferrari’s claim that the car was designed to be ‘fun to drive’ is borne out by its exhilarating performance. It feels incredibly agile without ever becoming nervous; the steering is typically light and direct, but it also provides exceptional feedback. While grip levels are exceptionally high, the 296 GTB remains remarkably throttle-adjustable, a feature that inevitably elicits a grin from the driver.
The car feels significantly lighter than its 1,470 kg dry weight might suggest, instilling a sense of nimbleness and encouraging intuitive inputs. The CT Off mode allows drivers to push the limits with confidence, reassured by the presence of an electronic brain far more intelligent than human intuition. Even with all traction controls deactivated, the 296 GTB’s inherent balance allows for extraordinary levels of oversteer, a feat one might not expect from a car with 819 horsepower.
On the track, the 296 GTB shrinks even the longest straights
