Ferrari 296 GTB: A Landmark in High-Performance Supercars
The era of the naturally aspirated V8 is definitively behind us. When Ferrari introduced the 296 GTB in 2022, it marked a radical departure from tradition, replacing the multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 with a cutting-edge V6 hybrid architecture. This evolution has positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of the supercar segment, which is currently undergoing a profound transition toward electrification.
For years, the benchmark in this segment was the naturally aspirated V10 of the Lamborghini Huracán, which, despite being comparatively low in power, captivated with its raw auditory experience and mechanical charisma. It also contended with the McLaren 720S, a formidable competitor with its own twin-turbo V8. While the McLaren 750S represents a refinement of existing design principles, emphasizing power-to-weight supremacy, the new 903bhp twin-turbo V8 hybrid Lamborghini Temerario is Maranello’s most direct challenge to the 819bhp hybrid berlinetta.
The 296 GTB boasts remarkable performance credentials. Featuring an entirely new 120-degree twin-turbo V6 paired with an electric motor, this rear-wheel-drive powerhouse delivers a staggering 819bhp. This configuration sets a new standard for performance engineering, significantly altering the landscape of supercar conventions.
It is difficult to ignore such prodigious power figures, prompting inevitable questions about the ultimate limits of performance escalation and the practicality of such extreme capabilities. However, focusing solely on raw numbers risks overlooking the profound technical and design achievements that underpin this vehicle.
The 296 GTB holds several significant distinctions within the Ferrari lineage. It is the first V6-powered Ferrari road car—unlike the delectable 246 GT Dino, which never bore the Prancing Horse emblem during its era. It also introduces the “hot-vee” turbocharger configuration and features plug-in hybrid capability, offering a silent EV-only range of approximately 15 miles. The compact V6 is mounted low in a new aluminum chassis, reducing the wheelbase by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors and positioning the driver slightly further forward.
The electric motor contributes an additional 165bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 alone produces a breathtaking 654bhp and 546 lb-ft. Although Ferrari refrains from quoting combined peak torque—likely due to the complexities of integrating the engine and electric motor—it is safe to assume the total output is substantial. The V6 engine itself is 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 counterparts and is paired with a new eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The long, oblong battery pack is strategically positioned behind the cockpit.
A Ferrari is incomplete without a suite of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems. For the 296 GTB, Ferrari developed the six-axis sensor unit known as 6w-CDS. This system measures acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing conventional yaw sensors. In conjunction with sensors on the steering rack, the 6w-CDS allows the car to monitor driver intent and real-time grip levels. This enables systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff to maximize cornering speed without compromising stability. Furthermore, the 296 GTB introduces ABS-evo, a brake-by-wire system that, when activated in RACE mode or higher, significantly shortens braking distances and improves performance during trail-braking maneuvers.
For the first time, Ferrari utilizes active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to enhance downforce. The firm claims a figure of 360kg at 155 mph, with the rear wing—which deploys from the rear of the car—contributing up to 100kg of that force.
The front end features two radiators for engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two condensers for battery thermal management. Hot air is expelled from underneath the car to prevent interference with the air intakes for the intercoolers located along the sides. The small vents below the headlights draw air to cool the brakes, while the wing integrated into the roofline assists in creating a “virtual” rear screen, effectively guiding airflow to the rear of the vehicle.
The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated beneath the car. Engineers paid meticulous attention not only to the design of the underbody channels and the rear diffuser but also to optimizing the ride height to maximize the effectiveness of the downforce-generating surfaces.
The Ferrari 296 GTB models we briefly experienced during the launch were all equipped with the Assetto Fiorano package. This option replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units inspired by GT racing technology and adds carbon aerodynamic devices to the front that increase downforce by 20kg.
The cabin also features enhanced carbon fiber elements, such as the door panels, contributing to an overall weight reduction of 12kg. This figure increases to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Additionally, Assetto Fiorano customers can opt for Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 4S tires. Fiorano cars are also available with a graphics package inspired by the 250LM of the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time with the 296 GTB, we find it to be an extraordinarily beautiful vehicle, distinct from anything else in the market and subtly echoing the 250LM of the 1960s, even without the striking graphics package.
Performance and 0-62mph acceleration
To initiate movement, drivers perform a double-press on the bottom of the steering wheel boss and engage first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it moves away using electric power alone unless otherwise directed via the haptic driver mode controls on the left side of the wheel boss. Applying moderate throttle allows the car to continue solely on electric power, provided the battery has sufficient charge.
Drivers can also elect to “force” EV mode, irrespective of the power demands placed on the powertrain. Alternatively, there are Performance and Qualifying modes. In these settings, both power sources work in tandem. Performance mode balances power delivery while aiming to keep the battery replenished, whereas Qualifying mode prioritizes maximum performance, disregarding the battery’s state of charge.
Cruising silently through villages is an unexpected delight. The damping is remarkably sophisticated, making it a surprisingly comfortable vehicle for long-distance driving; there is even a practical luggage compartment in the front trunk, a feature notably absent in the SF90. However, the most anticipated aspect is the experience of unleashing both the engine and electric motor in full force.
As a testament to its capability, accelerating from low revs in a high gear prompts the 296 to bolt forward with no discernible lag. This immediate response makes one question the necessity of gears, such is the potency of the electric boost. Nevertheless, with eight gears to utilize and an engine that revs to 8500 rpm, the 296 unleashes a startling burst of acceleration when pushed to its limits.
The 0–62 mph time of 2.9 seconds and top speed of 205 mph describe a rate of acceleration that induces a “hold-on-tight” sensation accompanied by nervous laughter. It borders on the overwhelming yet remains undeniably addictive. This is a seriously rapid vehicle. The soundtrack is equally captivating, blending the tuneful rasp of the V6 with satisfying turbocharger effects.
Ride and Handling
What truly impresses is the responsiveness of the 296 GTB’s chassis. Ferrari’s claim that the car was engineered to be “fun to drive” proves accurate. It feels exceptionally agile without being nervous. The steering is typically light and direct, yet it offers exceptional feedback. While grip levels are predictably high, the car remains throttle-adjustable in a manner that guarantees a smile.
The vehicle feels significantly lighter than its 1470 kg (dry) weight would suggest, with a remarkable lack of inertia that encourages drivers to work with the car. Small inputs yield significant results, and the precision and accuracy are deeply rewarding. The CT Off mode allows for incredible freedom, with the reassurance of an electronic brain far more intelligent than human instinct. Even with all systems deactivated, the natural balance of the 296 means it can be teased into oversteer in ways one wouldn’t expect from a car producing 819bhp.
On the track, the 296 shrinks even a long start-finish straight, but its true character as a sharp instrument becomes even more apparent. The power is sufficient to break rear traction at multiple points around the lap, yet the 296 is also highly sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that precise control leads to the greatest rewards.
The incredible accuracy and response of the turn-in dramatically reduce the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns, allowing load to build progressively, the 296 settles immediately on its Multimatic dampers. The hyper-quick steering complements the exceptional roll stiffness of the Assetto Fiorano setup perfectly. Even for drivers stepping out of conventional sports cars, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are phenomenal and a joy to experience lap after lap.
Interior
The cabin architecture is immediately recognizable to anyone familiar with the SF90, as the 296 heavily borrows from that design. The purely digital interface, supported by haptic switchgear, represents a significant paradigm shift. These controls are generously applied to the steering wheel and on traditional Ferrari pods flanking the wheel.
While the system is undoubtedly complex, it
