Ferrari 296 GTB 2025: A Masterpiece of Modern Supercar Engineering
The New Benchmark in V6 Hybrid Technology and Driving Dynamics
The Ferrari 296 GTB has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of the mid-engine supercar segment. Since its introduction, this revolutionary machine has set a new standard for performance, driving engagement, and technological sophistication. While the Ferrari 296 GTB price remains a high barrier to entry, the unparalleled performance and engineering artistry justify the investment for those seeking the pinnacle of automotive excellence.
A New Era of Ferrari Supercars
Ferrari’s mid-engine supercar foundation underwent a revolutionary transformation with the arrival of the 296 GTB. This evolution marked the departure from the long-celebrated twin-turbo V8 platform in favor of a groundbreaking twin-turbo V6 engine augmented by cutting-edge electric technology. In a segment still undergoing the transition to hybrid power, the 296 GTB assumed a leadership position, redefining expectations for what a modern supercar can achieve.
Initially, the 296 GTB faced traditional adversaries such as the naturally aspirated V10 Lamborghini Huracán. Though it lacked the raw power of its rival, the Huracán compensated with the charismatic growl of its V10 engine and visceral driving experience. However, the market also welcomed the ferocious McLaren 720S, which maintained its twin-turbo V8 prowess. While the McLaren 750S represents an incremental evolution of existing technology, emphasizing power-to-weight superiority, the Ferrari 296 GTB 2025 stands as a direct response to Lamborghini’s Temerario. The anticipated 903bhp, 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8 hybrid Lamborghini Temerario aims to challenge the 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta from Maranello, ensuring a fierce rivalry in this exclusive market segment.
Unrivaled Performance and Engineering
The 296 GTB boasts formidable power figures, prompting questions about where performance escalation will cease and where such staggering capabilities can be utilized. This iconic Ferrari V6 hybrid supercar is the first production Ferrari road car to feature a V6 engine, representing a significant leap forward in engine design. It also pioneers Ferrari’s first ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation and introduces a plug-in hybrid system with an approximate 15-mile electric-only range.
The lightweight V6 engine is centrally mounted in a new aluminum chassis, featuring a 50mm shorter wheelbase than its V8 predecessors. The driver and passenger sit slightly further forward, enhancing the cabin’s compact and focused feel. The electric motor provides an impressive 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 engine alone delivers a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined output totals 819bhp, although Ferrari deliberately refrains from quoting a combined torque figure, presumably due to the complex interaction between the engine and the electric motor. The V6 engine contributes to a weight saving of 30kg compared to Ferrari’s V8 engines, and it is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The substantial battery pack, a long rectangular unit, is located behind the seats, positioning the mass low within the chassis for optimal handling.
Advanced Aerodynamics and Chassis Control
No Ferrari would be complete without a sophisticated suite of electronic chassis systems. The 296 GTB features the innovative 6w-CDS (six-axis sensor), capable of measuring acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z axes. This technology replaces the traditional yaw sensor and, in conjunction with the steering rack sensor, allows the car to interpret driver input and grip levels at the contact patch. By working synergistically with the Side Slip Control (SSC) and active E-Diff, the system maximizes cornering speed without compromising stability.
Furthermore, Ferrari introduced ABS-evo in RACE mode and higher, utilizing the 296’s brake-by-wire system to shorten braking distances and enhance performance during trail braking. For the first time, Ferrari employs active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to generate downforce. The car produces 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with the rear wing, which deploys from the tail of the car, contributing up to 100kg of that force.
The car features two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox cooling, along with two additional condensers for battery cooling. Hot air is expelled underneath to prevent interference with the intercooler airflow along the flanks. The subtle apertures below the headlights intake air for the brakes, while the wing integrated into the rear roofline generates a ‘virtual’ rear screen that channels air towards the rear of the vehicle, mimicking the effect of a physical surface.
The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated underneath the vehicle. Ferrari paid meticulous attention to airflow channeling through the rear diffuser and the underbody height to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces. This engineering precision ensures exceptional stability and grip, even during aggressive driving maneuvers.
The Assetto Fiorano Package: Track-Focused Performance
The models test-driven on the launch circuit were all equipped with the Assetto Fiorano pack. This performance package replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing technology and adds further carbon aerodynamic components to the front splitter, increasing front downforce by 20kg. The cabin benefits from additional carbon fiber accents (such as door panels) and exterior carbon fiber components, contributing to an overall weight saving of 12kg. This saving increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is selected. Fiorano cars are also available with an exterior graphics package inspired by the 250LM of the 1960s.
Having experienced the 296 GTB firsthand, we recognize it as an incredibly beautiful vehicle that stands out from the competition. It bears a strong resemblance to the 250LM of the 1960s, even without the divisive graphics package. The 296 GTB represents a significant aesthetic achievement for Ferrari.
Performance and 0-62mph Acceleration
To initiate movement, drivers must double-press the bottom of the steering wheel boss and engage first gear. The 296 GTB starts in Hybrid mode, utilizing electric power until the driver initiates otherwise via the haptic driver mode ‘buttons’ on the left side of the steering wheel. By applying moderate throttle, the car can continue operating purely on electric power, provided the battery has sufficient charge.
Drivers can also select ‘EV’ mode regardless of power demands or choose between ‘Performance’ and ‘Qualifying’ modes. In these modes, both power sources work in tandem. Performance mode balances power delivery with battery replenishment, while Qualifying mode delivers maximum performance with no regard for battery charge levels.
Cruising silently through villages offers an unexpected pleasure, and the damping is so sophisticated that the car serves as a surprisingly comfortable long-distance tourer. The ‘frunk’ provides a reasonable luggage space, unlike the Ferrari SF90. However, the true allure lies in experiencing the car when both the engine and electric motor are pushed to their limits. The 296 GTB’s responsiveness is astonishing; flooring the accelerator at low revs in a high gear results in an immediate surge of power, making gears seem almost irrelevant in the face of its immense potency. Nevertheless, there are eight gears to exploit, and the engine revs to 8,500rpm. Unleashing the 296 GTB’s full performance is a truly astonishing experience.
As the specifications indicate (0-62mph in 2.9 seconds, top speed of 205mph), the acceleration rate is a thrilling, laugh-out-loud experience that verges on the exhilarating but is undeniably addictive. This is a seriously fast car that also sounds spectacular, with ample turbo whistle complementing the tuneful V6 rasp.
Ride and Handling: A Perfect Harmony
What truly impresses is the 296 GTB’s responsiveness. Ferrari’s claim that the car was designed to be ‘fun to drive’ is borne out by the experience. It feels agile without bordering on nervous. The steering is typically light and fast, yet it provides significant detail and feedback. While grip levels are extremely high, the car remains throttle-adjustable, encouraging playful driving and constant smiles.
Despite its 1,470kg dry weight, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. The entire car lacks inertia, encouraging drivers to work with it, make precise inputs, and revel in its accuracy and precision. The CT Off mode allows for incredible driving freedom with the reassurance of an intelligent electronic safety net. Even with all systems disengaged, the 296 GTB’s natural balance allows it to be teased into oversteer in a way that seems impossible for a car producing 819bhp.
On the track, the 296 effortlessly shortens even lengthy straights, but what becomes even more apparent is its precision as a driver’s tool. The power is sufficient to break traction at the rear at numerous points around the lap, but the 296 is also highly sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that precision yields the greatest rewards.
The incredible turn-in accuracy and responsiveness dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Rather than easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build, the 296 takes its line immediately, thanks to the advanced Multimatic dampers and hyper-quick steering that perfectly complement the extra body support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even after
