ABC Full [16-01-2026] General Hospital Episode: Trina & Kai Take Alexis Down and OBLITERATE WILLOW!
Ferrari 296 GTB: The Hybrid Supercar Evolving the Maranello Legend
As an industry veteran with a decade immersed in the thrilling world of high-performance automotive engineering, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless march of innovation. Few marques embody this relentless pursuit of automotive perfection quite like Ferrari. For years, the whisper of electrification has been growing louder in the supercar realm, and the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a bold testament to this paradigm shift. It’s a car that, even with a formidable Lamborghini rival on the horizon, continues to astound, pushing the boundaries of what we expect from a hybrid supercar.
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked a significant departure from the brand’s established formula. Ferrari, renowned for its visceral, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 engines, took a daring leap by introducing a new twin-turbo V6, augmented by electric power. This strategic pivot positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a supercar segment still in the nascent stages of embracing hybrid powertrains.
In its debut, the 296 GTB’s natural adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its naturally-aspirated V10 symphony. While the Huracán offered a captivating raw auditory experience, it was outmatched in sheer horsepower by the electrified Ferrari. Another formidable contender was the McLaren 720S, which championed the cause of the twin-turbo V8, a philosophy later refined in the 750S. However, the landscape has dramatically shifted with the impending arrival of the Lamborghini Temerario, a 10,000rpm, 903bhp hybrid monster tipped to be Maranello’s most direct challenge yet to the 819bhp Ferrari 296 GTB.
The sheer output of the Ferrari 296 GTB is, frankly, mind-boggling. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, synergized with an electric motor, channels its prodigious power exclusively to the rear wheels – a deliberate distinction from the four-wheel-drive SF90. The resulting 819bhp delivered by the Ferrari 296 GTB didn’t just raise the bar; it redefined supercar conventions. It’s easy to get lost in these astonishing figures, questioning the ultimate destination of this power escalation and, perhaps more practically, where such performance can be responsibly unleashed. But those are discussions for another time.
What is undeniable is the historical significance of the Ferrari 296 GTB. It represents the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to bear the iconic Prancing Horse emblem – a spiritual successor to the beloved 246 GT Dino, which, in its era, did not officially carry the badge. Furthermore, it pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration and integrates a plug-in hybrid system offering an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6, nestled low within a newly developed aluminum chassis, features a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward.
The electric motor contributes an impressive 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 itself independently churns out a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined figure of 819bhp is the headline, though Ferrari wisely refrains from quoting peak combined torque, likely due to the complex interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor. Suffice it to say, the combined torque is nothing short of colossal. Crucially, this V6 powertrain is approximately 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 units and is mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The long, slender battery pack is discreetly housed behind the seats, a testament to packaging prowess.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of acronym-laden electronic chassis management systems, and the Ferrari 296 GTB is no exception. At its core lies the six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS, a marvel of engineering capable of precisely measuring acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. This sophisticated sensor replaces traditional yaw sensors and, in conjunction with a steering rack-mounted sensor, provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of the driver’s intentions and the available grip at the tire contact patches. This data allows the car to intricately manage systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, optimizing cornering speeds while steadfastly maintaining stability and driver confidence. It also enables the innovative ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and above. Coupled with the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo not only slashes braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners, a crucial technique for maximizing lap times.
For the first time in its road car history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not merely to reduce drag but to actively generate downforce. The manufacturer quotes a substantial 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a remarkable 100kg of that figure attributable to the deployable rear wing. The thermal management of this high-performance hybrid system is equally impressive. Two radiators in the front fascia handle engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers dedicated to battery thermal regulation. Hot air is efficiently expelled beneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t impede the airflow directed to the intercoolers flanking the vehicle. Small apertures beneath the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a roofline-integrated rear wing acts as a ‘virtual’ rear screen, channeling airflow rearward as if guided by a sculpted surface. The majority of the Ferrari 296 GTB’s downforce is generated from the underbody, where meticulous attention has been paid not only to air channeling and the rear diffuser but also to the car’s ride height, maximizing the effectiveness of these downforce-generating elements.
Our initial experiences with the Ferrari 296 GTB were on a dedicated circuit, and our test cars were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing technology and incorporates additional carbon-fiber aerodynamic elements on the front fascia, increasing front downforce by a further 20kg. The interior also sees an increased use of carbon fiber, including door panels, contributing to an overall weight saving of 12kg. This figure can be extended to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is selected. For the ultimate grip, the Assetto Fiorano package can be further augmented with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the already potent standard Pilot Sport 4S. Visually, Assetto Fiorano-equipped cars can be personalized with an exterior graphics package that draws inspiration from the legendary 250LM of the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time observing and interacting with the Ferrari 296 GTB in person, I can attest to its striking aesthetic. It is a truly beautiful machine, possessing a distinct identity that sets it apart from anything else on the road. Even without the polarizing graphics package, its lines echo the timeless elegance of the 1960s 250LM, a design that continues to captivate.
To initiate movement in the Ferrari 296 GTB, a dual press of the lower section of the steering wheel boss and the selection of first gear are all that’s required. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, smoothly engaging electric propulsion unless otherwise instructed via the haptic driver mode selectors on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as the throttle inputs remain judicious and the battery is sufficiently charged, the 296 GTB will proceed silently on electric power alone. For those desiring an even more focused experience, there’s the option to engage EV mode directly, irrespective of power demands. Beyond this, the Performance and Qualifying modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid powertrain. In Performance mode, both power sources collaborate to deliver exhilarating acceleration while also working to maintain battery charge. Qualifying mode, as the name suggests, prioritizes absolute peak performance, disregarding the battery’s state of charge.
The experience of gliding silently through urban landscapes is a surprisingly serene pleasure. The damping sophistication ensures a remarkably comfortable ride, making it an ideal companion for long-distance journeys. Even the front ‘frunk’ offers a practical, albeit modest, luggage space – a welcome improvement over the SF90. However, the real question on everyone’s mind, myself included, is what transpires when both the combustion engine and electric motor are unleashed to their fullest potential.
A telling glimpse of this raw power is revealed when you floor the throttle from low revs in a high gear. The Ferrari 296 GTB simply surges forward with an immediate, potent response that momentarily makes you question the necessity of gear changes. Yet, the presence of eight gears to exploit, coupled with an engine that eagerly spins to an 8,500rpm redline, means that when you truly uncork the 296, the effect is nothing short of astonishing. The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph in the low 2-second range and a top speed exceeding 205mph – translate into a driving sensation that is both exhilarating and bordering on overwhelming, inducing a curious blend of nervous laughter and addictive intensity. This is, without question, a seriously rapid automobile. The auditory experience is equally captivating, with a harmonious V6 rasp artfully layered with engaging turbocharger sound effects.
What truly elevates the Ferrari 296 GTB is the astounding responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s promise of a car designed for pure driving enjoyment is not mere marketing hyperbole; it’s an intrinsic characteristic. The car feels exceptionally agile without exhibiting any nervous tendencies. The steering, typically light and swift, also conveys a surprising amount of road detail. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s ability to be dynamically adjusted with the throttle pedal is a source of immense satisfaction and prompts an irrepressible grin.
Despite its published dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a remarkable lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, encouraging the driver to work in harmony with its precise and accurate responses, favoring subtle inputs. The CT Off mode offers a safety net of electronic assistance, providing immense reassurance even when pushing the limits, but even with all systems disengaged, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses such inherent balance that it can be coaxed into controllable oversteer in a manner one would scarcely believe possible in an 819bhp machine.
On the racetrack, the Ferrari 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to make even long straights feel condensed. What becomes even more apparent is its surgical precision. The immense power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the lap, but the car is also acutely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes evident that meticulous control yields the greatest rewards. The astonishing turn-in accuracy and response dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing into turns and gradually building load, the 296 GTB assumes its line instantaneously, aided by its Multimatic dampers. The hyper-quick steering pairs beautifully with the enhanced body control offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventionally powerful sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the Ferrari 296 GTB are phenomenal, providing an utterly joyous experience lap after lap.
The interior architecture of the Ferrari 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90, as the 296 inherits many design cues from its more powerful sibling. The all-digital interface, coupled with its accompanying haptic switchgear, presents a notable learning curve. These controls are liberally applied across the steering wheel and the traditional Ferrari pods flanking it. While undoubtedly complex, it’s important to acknowledge the sheer volume of information and functions being conveyed. However, the primary frustration lies in the sometimes-temperamental nature of these controls; simple operations can occasionally require a second press if the initial input isn’t registered, and it’s not always immediately clear whether a command has been successfully executed. Despite these ergonomic challenges, the cabin undeniably exudes a special, focused ambiance.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict
The intensity surrounding the Ferrari 296 GTB’s evaluation for the 2022 evo Car of the Year award was palpable. The scores were incredibly close, with the McLaren Artura and the Ferrari 296 GTB separated by mere fractions. The judging panel was evenly divided: three favored the Ferrari, while three placed the McLaren narrowly ahead.
Those who championed the Ferrari 296 GTB included myself, Jethro Bovingdon, and Henry Catchpole. Jethro enthused, “What a spectacular car. Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever. Its V6 shows McLaren how to downsize but turn up the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control but feels a bit more playful and indulgent.”
Richard Meaden’s assessment was equally glowing: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. He continued, “The hybrid system works very well and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared, probably because we’ve already become accustomed to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8s in the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but doesn’t rely solely on speed thanks to the character of the V6, which offers a soundtrack that’s always sweet and evolves with throttle opening.”
While the Ferrari 296 GTB’s hybrid integration was widely praised for its seamless operation, a critical incident on the final night saw the car stranded due to a depleted battery with no obvious means of revival. Ferrari had, in fairness, forewarned of this possibility and provided detailed instructions to mitigate such occurrences. Nevertheless, it’s not inconceivable that an owner could find themselves in a similar predicament. As Jack Gallagher aptly put it, “The fact that the company that introduced individual rear-wheel steering to its cars can’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this is a huge oversight.” Fortunately for the 296, this incident occurred after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the very best in the group. The tech interface also faced widespread criticism for its excessive complexity. However, beyond these points, the Ferrari 296 GTB proved irresistibly seductive. Vivian, one of the judges, admitted, “I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference – but I ended up somewhat bewitched: the spooky way it changes direction; its amazing damping and looney-tunes levels of grip; the linearity of seemingly never-ending power…”
Peter Tomalin, in his concluding remarks for the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, stated, “It’s a real return to form for Ferrari, after the SF90 left us cold last year. As Henry Catchpole said: ‘The 296 is way more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural, and far less intrusive.’ And Jack agreed: ‘Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learnt from that car and distilled it into a series production model that’s one of its very best.’”
When a vehicle is so profoundly infused with advanced technology, there’s always a risk that it may become less than the sum of its parts. This was a sentiment we encountered with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power output, could be unnerving due to its somewhat opaque driving characteristics.
The Ferrari 296 GTB, however, represents a fundamentally different proposition. As our evaluation for evo Car of the Year 2022 (where it achieved a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura) revealed, it feels far more organic. Its masterful blend of raw power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect sweet spot, effectively redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-ish price bracket can achieve. Whispers of a Versione Speciale variant of the 296, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity, are circulating, and the hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be preserved.
It is this very aspect – the inherent naturalness and organic feel – that we ardently hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. In excess of 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series-production supercar, and it possesses the potential to corrupt the entire driving experience if the rest of the vehicle isn’t meticulously resolved to complement it. If Lamborghini has indeed struck the right balance – and the exceptional performance of the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test on our hands, potentially pitting two hybrid hypercars with a combined output of around 1700bhp against each other.
Alternatively, we could expand this to a staggering 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S. This machine, by comparison, might now be absurdly described as the “minnow” of this elite group, with “only” 740bhp. However, it compensates with a relatively petite kerb weight of 1389kg, ensuring a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, unadulterated feedback, ergonomic perfection, sharp steering, and nimble chassis offer a distinct and arguably more immediate connection compared to the comparatively detached feel of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the supercar. It masterfully balances groundbreaking hybrid technology with the raw emotion and driving purity that define the Ferrari marque. If you’re seeking an automotive experience that transcends mere transportation and delivers unparalleled performance, exquisite engineering, and a palpable connection to the road, the Ferrari 296 GTB awaits.
Ready to experience the future of supercar performance? Contact your nearest Ferrari dealership today to arrange a private viewing and test drive of the revolutionary Ferrari 296 GTB.
![ABC Full [16-01-2026] General Hospital Episode: Trina & Kai Take Alexis Down and OBLITERATE WILLOW!](https://showus.vansonnguyen.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/fb_natural_20260320_104351.jpg){kind=small}
Ferrari 296 GTB: The Hybrid Supercar Evolving the Maranello Legend
As an industry veteran with a decade immersed in the thrilling world of high-performance automotive engineering, I’ve witnessed firsthand the relentless march of innovation. Few marques embody this relentless pursuit of automotive perfection quite like Ferrari. For years, the whisper of electrification has been growing louder in the supercar realm, and the Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a bold testament to this paradigm shift. It’s a car that, even with a formidable Lamborghini rival on the horizon, continues to astound, pushing the boundaries of what we expect from a hybrid supercar.
The arrival of the Ferrari 296 GTB in 2022 marked a significant departure from the brand’s established formula. Ferrari, renowned for its visceral, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 engines, took a daring leap by introducing a new twin-turbo V6, augmented by electric power. This strategic pivot positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a supercar segment still in the nascent stages of embracing hybrid powertrains.
In its debut, the 296 GTB’s natural adversary was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its naturally-aspirated V10 symphony. While the Huracán offered a captivating raw auditory experience, it was outmatched in sheer horsepower by the electrified Ferrari. Another formidable contender was the McLaren 720S, which championed the cause of the twin-turbo V8, a philosophy later refined in the 750S. However, the landscape has dramatically shifted with the impending arrival of the Lamborghini Temerario, a 10,000rpm, 903bhp hybrid monster tipped to be Maranello’s most direct challenge yet to the 819bhp Ferrari 296 GTB.
The sheer output of the Ferrari 296 GTB is, frankly, mind-boggling. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, synergized with an electric motor, channels its prodigious power exclusively to the rear wheels – a deliberate distinction from the four-wheel-drive SF90. The resulting 819bhp delivered by the Ferrari 296 GTB didn’t just raise the bar; it redefined supercar conventions. It’s easy to get lost in these astonishing figures, questioning the ultimate destination of this power escalation and, perhaps more practically, where such performance can be responsibly unleashed. But those are discussions for another time.
What is undeniable is the historical significance of the Ferrari 296 GTB. It represents the first V6-powered Ferrari road car to bear the iconic Prancing Horse emblem – a spiritual successor to the beloved 246 GT Dino, which, in its era, did not officially carry the badge. Furthermore, it pioneers Ferrari’s ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger configuration and integrates a plug-in hybrid system offering an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6, nestled low within a newly developed aluminum chassis, features a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward.
The electric motor contributes an impressive 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 itself independently churns out a remarkable 654bhp and 546lb ft. The combined figure of 819bhp is the headline, though Ferrari wisely refrains from quoting peak combined torque, likely due to the complex interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor. Suffice it to say, the combined torque is nothing short of colossal. Crucially, this V6 powertrain is approximately 30kg lighter than Ferrari’s V8 units and is mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The long, slender battery pack is discreetly housed behind the seats, a testament to packaging prowess.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of acronym-laden electronic chassis management systems, and the Ferrari 296 GTB is no exception. At its core lies the six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS, a marvel of engineering capable of precisely measuring acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. This sophisticated sensor replaces traditional yaw sensors and, in conjunction with a steering rack-mounted sensor, provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of the driver’s intentions and the available grip at the tire contact patches. This data allows the car to intricately manage systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-Diff, optimizing cornering speeds while steadfastly maintaining stability and driver confidence. It also enables the innovative ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and above. Coupled with the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo not only slashes braking distances but also significantly enhances braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers into corners, a crucial technique for maximizing lap times.
For the first time in its road car history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not merely to reduce drag but to actively generate downforce. The manufacturer quotes a substantial 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a remarkable 100kg of that figure attributable to the deployable rear wing. The thermal management of this high-performance hybrid system is equally impressive. Two radiators in the front fascia handle engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two additional condensers dedicated to battery thermal regulation. Hot air is efficiently expelled beneath the car, ensuring it doesn’t impede the airflow directed to the intercoolers flanking the vehicle. Small apertures beneath the headlamps are dedicated to brake cooling, while a roofline-integrated rear wing acts as a ‘virtual’ rear screen, channeling airflow rearward as if guided by a sculpted surface. The majority of the Ferrari 296 GTB’s downforce is generated from the underbody, where meticulous attention has been paid not only to air channeling and the rear diffuser but also to the car’s ride height, maximizing the effectiveness of these downforce-generating elements.
Our initial experiences with the Ferrari 296 GTB were on a dedicated circuit, and our test cars were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with Multimatic units derived from GT racing technology and incorporates additional carbon-fiber aerodynamic elements on the front fascia, increasing front downforce by a further 20kg. The interior also sees an increased use of carbon fiber, including door panels, contributing to an overall weight saving of 12kg. This figure can be extended to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is selected. For the ultimate grip, the Assetto Fiorano package can be further augmented with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the already potent standard Pilot Sport 4S. Visually, Assetto Fiorano-equipped cars can be personalized with an exterior graphics package that draws inspiration from the legendary 250LM of the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time observing and interacting with the Ferrari 296 GTB in person, I can attest to its striking aesthetic. It is a truly beautiful machine, possessing a distinct identity that sets it apart from anything else on the road. Even without the polarizing graphics package, its lines echo the timeless elegance of the 1960s 250LM, a design that continues to captivate.
To initiate movement in the Ferrari 296 GTB, a dual press of the lower section of the steering wheel boss and the selection of first gear are all that’s required. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, smoothly engaging electric propulsion unless otherwise instructed via the haptic driver mode selectors on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as the throttle inputs remain judicious and the battery is sufficiently charged, the 296 GTB will proceed silently on electric power alone. For those desiring an even more focused experience, there’s the option to engage EV mode directly, irrespective of power demands. Beyond this, the Performance and Qualifying modes unlock the full potential of the hybrid powertrain. In Performance mode, both power sources collaborate to deliver exhilarating acceleration while also working to maintain battery charge. Qualifying mode, as the name suggests, prioritizes absolute peak performance, disregarding the battery’s state of charge.
The experience of gliding silently through urban landscapes is a surprisingly serene pleasure. The damping sophistication ensures a remarkably comfortable ride, making it an ideal companion for long-distance journeys. Even the front ‘frunk’ offers a practical, albeit modest, luggage space – a welcome improvement over the SF90. However, the real question on everyone’s mind, myself included, is what transpires when both the combustion engine and electric motor are unleashed to their fullest potential.
A telling glimpse of this raw power is revealed when you floor the throttle from low revs in a high gear. The Ferrari 296 GTB simply surges forward with an immediate, potent response that momentarily makes you question the necessity of gear changes. Yet, the presence of eight gears to exploit, coupled with an engine that eagerly spins to an 8,500rpm redline, means that when you truly uncork the 296, the effect is nothing short of astonishing. The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph in the low 2-second range and a top speed exceeding 205mph – translate into a driving sensation that is both exhilarating and bordering on overwhelming, inducing a curious blend of nervous laughter and addictive intensity. This is, without question, a seriously rapid automobile. The auditory experience is equally captivating, with a harmonious V6 rasp artfully layered with engaging turbocharger sound effects.
What truly elevates the Ferrari 296 GTB is the astounding responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s promise of a car designed for pure driving enjoyment is not mere marketing hyperbole; it’s an intrinsic characteristic. The car feels exceptionally agile without exhibiting any nervous tendencies. The steering, typically light and swift, also conveys a surprising amount of road detail. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s ability to be dynamically adjusted with the throttle pedal is a source of immense satisfaction and prompts an irrepressible grin.
Despite its published dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a remarkable lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, encouraging the driver to work in harmony with its precise and accurate responses, favoring subtle inputs. The CT Off mode offers a safety net of electronic assistance, providing immense reassurance even when pushing the limits, but even with all systems disengaged, the Ferrari 296 GTB possesses such inherent balance that it can be coaxed into controllable oversteer in a manner one would scarcely believe possible in an 819bhp machine.
On the racetrack, the Ferrari 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to make even long straights feel condensed. What becomes even more apparent is its surgical precision. The immense power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the lap, but the car is also acutely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes evident that meticulous control yields the greatest rewards. The astonishing turn-in accuracy and response dramatically shorten the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing into turns and gradually building load, the 296 GTB assumes its line instantaneously, aided by its Multimatic dampers. The hyper-quick steering pairs beautifully with the enhanced body control offered by the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for drivers accustomed to more conventionally powerful sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the Ferrari 296 GTB are phenomenal, providing an utterly joyous experience lap after lap.
The interior architecture of the Ferrari 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90, as the 296 inherits many design cues from its more powerful sibling. The all-digital interface, coupled with its accompanying haptic switchgear, presents a notable learning curve. These controls are liberally applied across the steering wheel and the traditional Ferrari pods flanking it. While undoubtedly complex, it’s important to acknowledge the sheer volume of information and functions being conveyed. However, the primary frustration lies in the sometimes-temperamental nature of these controls; simple operations can occasionally require a second press if the initial input isn’t registered, and it’s not always immediately clear whether a command has been successfully executed. Despite these ergonomic challenges, the cabin undeniably exudes a special, focused ambiance.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict
The intensity surrounding the Ferrari 296 GTB’s evaluation for the 2022 evo Car of the Year award was palpable. The scores were incredibly close, with the McLaren Artura and the Ferrari 296 GTB separated by mere fractions. The judging panel was evenly divided: three favored the Ferrari, while three placed the McLaren narrowly ahead.
Those who championed the Ferrari 296 GTB included myself, Jethro Bovingdon, and Henry Catchpole. Jethro enthused, “What a spectacular car. Beautiful to look at, outrageously fast, amazingly exploitable, and so technically clever. Its V6 shows McLaren how to downsize but turn up the drama, and it matches the Artura in terms of sheer control but feels a bit more playful and indulgent.”
Richard Meaden’s assessment was equally glowing: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. He continued, “The hybrid system works very well and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared, probably because we’ve already become accustomed to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8s in the 488 and F8. The 296 is stonkingly quick, but doesn’t rely solely on speed thanks to the character of the V6, which offers a soundtrack that’s always sweet and evolves with throttle opening.”
While the Ferrari 296 GTB’s hybrid integration was widely praised for its seamless operation, a critical incident on the final night saw the car stranded due to a depleted battery with no obvious means of revival. Ferrari had, in fairness, forewarned of this possibility and provided detailed instructions to mitigate such occurrences. Nevertheless, it’s not inconceivable that an owner could find themselves in a similar predicament. As Jack Gallagher aptly put it, “The fact that the company that introduced individual rear-wheel steering to its cars can’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this is a huge oversight.” Fortunately for the 296, this incident occurred after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel, while competent, didn’t quite match the very best in the group. The tech interface also faced widespread criticism for its excessive complexity. However, beyond these points, the Ferrari 296 GTB proved irresistibly seductive. Vivian, one of the judges, admitted, “I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference – but I ended up somewhat bewitched: the spooky way it changes direction; its amazing damping and looney-tunes levels of grip; the linearity of seemingly never-ending power…”
Peter Tomalin, in his concluding remarks for the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, stated, “It’s a real return to form for Ferrari, after the SF90 left us cold last year. As Henry Catchpole said: ‘The 296 is way more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural, and far less intrusive.’ And Jack agreed: ‘Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learnt from that car and distilled it into a series production model that’s one of its very best.’”
When a vehicle is so profoundly infused with advanced technology, there’s always a risk that it may become less than the sum of its parts. This was a sentiment we encountered with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power output, could be unnerving due to its somewhat opaque driving characteristics.
The Ferrari 296 GTB, however, represents a fundamentally different proposition. As our evaluation for evo Car of the Year 2022 (where it achieved a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura) revealed, it feels far more organic. Its masterful blend of raw power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect sweet spot, effectively redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-ish price bracket can achieve. Whispers of a Versione Speciale variant of the 296, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity, are circulating, and the hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be preserved.
It is this very aspect – the inherent naturalness and organic feel – that we ardently hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario supercar. In excess of 900bhp is an almost obscene amount of power for a series-production supercar, and it possesses the potential to corrupt the entire driving experience if the rest of the vehicle isn’t meticulously resolved to complement it. If Lamborghini has indeed struck the right balance – and the exceptional performance of the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test on our hands, potentially pitting two hybrid hypercars with a combined output of around 1700bhp against each other.
Alternatively, we could expand this to a staggering 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S. This machine, by comparison, might now be absurdly described as the “minnow” of this elite group, with “only” 740bhp. However, it compensates with a relatively petite kerb weight of 1389kg, ensuring a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, unadulterated feedback, ergonomic perfection, sharp steering, and nimble chassis offer a distinct and arguably more immediate connection compared to the comparatively detached feel of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, twin-turbocharged V6, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Combined Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry) (566bhp/ton)
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+
The Ferrari 296 GTB represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the supercar. It masterfully balances groundbreaking hybrid technology with the raw emotion and driving purity that define the Ferrari marque. If you’re seeking an automotive experience that transcends mere transportation and delivers unparalleled performance, exquisite engineering, and a palpable connection to the road, the Ferrari 296 GTB awaits.
Ready to experience the future of supercar performance? Contact your nearest Ferrari dealership today to arrange a private viewing and test drive of the revolutionary Ferrari 296 GTB.