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Ferrari 296 GTB: Electrifying Performance, Enduring V6 Soul, and the Looming Lamborghini Challenge
For a decade now, I’ve navigated the ever-shifting landscape of automotive innovation, from the roaring V8s of yesteryear to the sophisticated hybrid powertrains that define today’s supercars. In my experience, few vehicles have so effectively bridged this technological chasm as the Ferrari 296 GTB. It arrived on the scene a couple of years back, a bold declaration from Maranello, and even with the tantalizing whispers of a 10,000rpm, 900-plus horsepower hybrid Lamborghini rival on the horizon, the 296 GTB continues to astound. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement about the future of performance motoring, a testament to how electrification can enhance, rather than dilute, the visceral thrill of a Ferrari.
The mid-engined supercar segment, historically a bastion of raw, naturally aspirated glory, underwent a seismic shift with the introduction of the 296 GTB in 2022. Ferrari dared to replace its multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 with a completely new twin-turbo V6, augmented by electric power. This audacious move positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment that was only just beginning its transition to hybrid powertrains. At its debut, its primary competitor was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its V10 symphony, albeit one that was outgunned in raw power by the Prancing Horse. Then there was the McLaren 720S, a formidable V8-powered machine that thrived on its impressive power-to-weight ratio. Now, with the advent of the 903bhp, 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8 hybrid Lamborghini Temerario, the game has been irrevocably altered. This Temerario, a clear and aggressive challenge to Maranello’s 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta, represents Lamborghini’s boldest response yet.
Make no mistake, the 296 GTB wields serious firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree twin-turbo V6, paired with an electric motor, drives the rear wheels exclusively – a departure from the SF90’s all-wheel-drive setup. The combined output of 819bhp was a revelation, shattering conventional supercar paradigms. It’s easy to be mesmerized by such stratospheric power figures, to ponder where this relentless escalation will lead (and whether the forthcoming Lamborghini Temerario will push boundaries even further), and, more practically, where one might actually utilize such prodigious performance. But those are questions for another discussion.
What sets the 296 GTB apart is its pioneering spirit. It’s the first V6-powered Ferrari road car – the sublime 246 GT Dino, while bearing a spiritual connection, never officially wore the Prancing Horse badge in its era. It also features Ferrari’s first ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation, a configuration where the turbos are nestled within the engine’s V-angle, optimizing packaging and response. Crucially, it’s a plug-in hybrid, offering an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is mounted low in a bespoke aluminum chassis, with a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, and the occupants are positioned slightly further forward.
The electric motor contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 engine alone churns out an astonishing 654bhp and 546lb ft. The headline figure of 819bhp is impressive, but Ferrari’s reticence in quoting combined peak torque is telling. It likely stems from the intricate interplay between the electric motor and the V6, but rest assured, the combined torque is, to put it mildly, considerable. The V6 unit itself is 30kg lighter than a comparable Ferrari V8, mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, slender structure, resides neatly behind the seats, contributing to the car’s balanced weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without a suite of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 is no exception. Ferrari has developed its groundbreaking six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This remarkable device measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. When integrated with the steering rack sensor, it provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of both driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data is fed to systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-diff, orchestrating maximum cornering speed while maintaining unwavering stability. A particularly noteworthy innovation is the ABS-evo system, activated in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo not only reduces stopping distances but also enhances braking performance during trail braking maneuvers into corners, a critical technique for maximizing lap times.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to aggressively increase downforce. The manufacturer quotes a figure of 360kg at 155mph, with a significant portion of that downforce, up to 100kg, generated by an active rear wing that deploys from the rear deck. The car’s aerodynamic prowess extends beyond the active elements. Two radiators in the front are dedicated to cooling the engine and gearbox, supplemented by two condensers for the battery. Hot air is expelled beneath the car, strategically routed to avoid interfering with the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. The discreet apertures below the headlamps serve to cool the brakes, while a wing integrated into the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, effectively channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s considerable downforce is generated from beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to the underbody’s design, including the rear diffuser and the crucial ground clearance, to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The 296 GTB models we sampled on a closed circuit were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This track-focused upgrade swaps the standard dampers for race-derived Multimatic units, similar to those found on GT racing cars. It also adds further carbon fiber aerodynamic enhancements to the front, boosting front downforce by an additional 20kg. The cabin also benefits from more carbon fiber, including the door panels, contributing to an overall weight saving of 12kg. Opting for the Lexan rear engine cover further shaves off 3kg, bringing the total to 15kg. For those seeking the ultimate grip, the Fiorano package offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an upgrade from the already formidable standard Pilot Sport 4S. Moreover, Fiorano-spec cars can be personalized with an exterior graphics package, a stylish nod to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time scrutinizing the 296 GTB “in the metal,” I can attest to its striking beauty. It possesses a unique aesthetic, distinct from anything else on the road, with lines that subtly echo the legendary 250LM, even without the more overt graphics package.
Performance and the Thrill of the Drive
To set off, a double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss initiates drive, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will glide away on electric power alone unless directed otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode buttons on the left side of the steering wheel boss. With judicious throttle application, and provided the battery has sufficient charge, the car will continue its silent progress on electricity alone.
Drivers can also manually select EV mode, overriding any powertrain demands, or opt for the more aggressive Performance and Qualifying modes. In these settings, both the electric motor and the V6 operate in tandem. Performance mode aims for maximum output while also striving to maintain battery charge, whereas Qualifying mode unleashes the full, unadulterated fury of the powertrain, regardless of the battery’s state of depletion.
There’s an unexpected serenity in gliding through urban environments, and the sophistication of the damping makes it a remarkably comfortable car for covering long distances. Even the luggage space in the ‘frunk’ is surprisingly practical, a welcome improvement over the SF90. But, as we both know, the real question on everyone’s mind is: what does it feel like when both the engine and electric motor are unleashed?
The answer lies in the immediate surge of acceleration when you floor the throttle at low revs in a high gear. The 296 simply bolts forward, eradicating any hint of turbo lag and making you momentarily question the need for gears, such is its sheer potency. However, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that eagerly spins to 8500rpm, the full experience of the 296 is nothing short of astonishing.
As the performance figures suggest – a blistering 0-62mph sprint in a mere 2.9 seconds and a top speed of over 205mph – the rate of acceleration is an intoxicating blend of exhilarating and slightly unnerving. It’s the kind of performance that elicits nervous laughter and a primal urge to hold on tight, yet it’s also deeply addictive. This is a seriously rapid machine, and it sounds magnificent doing it, a symphony of turbocharger effects layered over the tuneful rasp of the V6.
Ride and Handling: A Masterclass in Precision
What truly elevates the 296 GTB is the astonishing responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s claim that the car was engineered to be “fun to drive” is no mere marketing slogan; it’s a deeply ingrained principle. The 296 feels incredibly agile without ever becoming nervous or skittish. The steering is typically light and razor-sharp, yet it manages to convey a remarkable amount of road feel. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s true magic lies in its adjustability on the throttle, a trait that is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
Despite its 1470kg dry weight, the 296 feels significantly lighter. There’s a distinct lack of inertia, encouraging the driver to work with the car, making subtle inputs and reveling in its pinpoint accuracy and precision. Engaging ‘CT Off’ mode provides an incredible sense of freedom, allowing for daring maneuvers with the implicit reassurance that an electronic guardian angel is still watching over you. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s innate balance allows it to be playfully coaxed into oversteer in a manner one would never anticipate from a car producing 819bhp.
On a racetrack, the 296 possesses the uncanny ability to shrink even the longest start-finish straight. What becomes even more apparent is its precision as a surgical instrument. The power is certainly sufficient to break rear traction at numerous points around the lap, but the 296 is also acutely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes apparent that precision with the controls yields the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and response are simply phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build gradually, the 296 settles immediately, its Multimatic dampers working in concert with the hyper-quick steering and the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even if you’ve just stepped out of a more conventional sports car, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are nothing short of phenomenal, providing a joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior: A Blend of Familiarity and Futuristic Interface
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. The 296 borrows heavily from its flagship sibling, featuring a fully digital interface and an array of haptic switchgear. These controls are liberally scattered across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it.
While undoubtedly complex, it’s important to acknowledge the sheer volume of information and functionality these systems manage. However, the primary frustration lies in the fact that seemingly simple operations can sometimes require a second press to register, or one is left uncertain whether a press has been successful at all. Despite these interface quirks, the cabin undeniably feels like a special place to be, exuding an aura of bespoke craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict: A Triumph of Hybrid Integration
“Now it gets serious,” declared Peter Tomalin, evo’s editor, reflecting on the Car of the Year 2022 awards. “When the scores were tallied, there was barely a hair’s breadth between the McLaren Artura and the 296 GTB. The judges were perfectly split too: three of us narrowly preferred the Ferrari, while three scored the McLaren ahead by a whisker.”
The three judges who placed the 296 at the top were Jethro Bovingdon, Henry Catchpole, and Tomalin himself. “What a spectacular car,” enthused Jethro. “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.”
Dickie Meaden offered a particularly striking endorsement: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. “The hybrid system works exceptionally 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 it doesn’t rely solely on speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which possesses a soundtrack that’s always sweet and evolves with throttle opening.”
While the Ferrari’s hybridisation received widespread praise for its seamless integration, a notable incident occurred on the final night when the car was left stranded after the battery depleted with no apparent means of revival. To be fair, Ferrari had cautioned about this possibility and provided detailed procedures to prevent it. However, as Jethro Gallagher pointed out, “it’s not inconceivable that an owner could find themselves similarly stuck, and for the company that pioneered individual rear-wheel steering to not engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this is a huge oversight.” Fortunately for the 296, this occurred after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel didn’t quite match the very best in the group. The tech interface also faced widespread criticism for its complexity. Yet, despite these drawbacks, the 296 was deemed irresistibly seductive. “I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference,” admitted Vivian. “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 concluded: “It’s a real return to form for Ferrari, after the SF90 left us cold last year. As Ollie Marriage stated: ‘The 296 is far more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural and far less intrusive.’ And Jethro Gallagher agreed: ‘Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learned from that car, and distilled it into a series-production model that is one of its very best.’”
Price, Rivals, and the Future of Supercar Supremacy
When a car is so heavily laden with cutting-edge technology, there’s always a risk that it might feel less than the sum of its parts – a sensation we experienced with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, felt somewhat inscrutable in its driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB is a different proposition entirely. As demonstrated at the evo Car of the Year 2022 awards, where it secured joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, it feels far more organic. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect balance, redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket can be. A Versione Speciale variant of the 296 is anticipated, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. The crucial hope is that it retains the standard 296’s inexplicably natural and connected feel.
It is this very aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized when honing its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an obscene amount of power to manage in a series-production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm if the rest of the vehicle isn’t meticulously resolved to complement it. If Lamborghini has truly nailed it – and the sheer brilliance of the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test, potentially featuring a combined horsepower output exceeding 1700bhp.
Alternatively, we could even contemplate a 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S. Absurdly, this car is now the “minnow” of the class, with a mere 740bhp. However, as previously noted, it brings a relatively petite 1389kg kerb weight to the table, resulting in a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, ergonomically perfect design, the crispness of its steering, and the deftness of its chassis demonstrably set it apart against the comparatively more remote feeling of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB: Technical Specifications
Engine: V6, 2992cc, twin-turbo, 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 automotive landscape is in constant flux, and the convergence of electrification and traditional performance engineering is creating machines that were once the stuff of pure fantasy. The Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a testament to this evolution, a car that delivers not only blistering performance but also an engaging and connected driving experience.
If you’re captivated by the future of supercar performance and the artistry of Italian engineering, we invite you to explore the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB further. Connect with your local Ferrari dealership or a trusted automotive specialist to arrange a private viewing or to learn more about securing your place behind the wheel of this extraordinary machine. The future of the supercar has arrived, and it’s more exhilarating than ever.
Ferrari 296 GTB: Electrifying Performance, Enduring V6 Soul, and the Looming Lamborghini Challenge
For a decade now, I’ve navigated the ever-shifting landscape of automotive innovation, from the roaring V8s of yesteryear to the sophisticated hybrid powertrains that define today’s supercars. In my experience, few vehicles have so effectively bridged this technological chasm as the Ferrari 296 GTB. It arrived on the scene a couple of years back, a bold declaration from Maranello, and even with the tantalizing whispers of a 10,000rpm, 900-plus horsepower hybrid Lamborghini rival on the horizon, the 296 GTB continues to astound. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement about the future of performance motoring, a testament to how electrification can enhance, rather than dilute, the visceral thrill of a Ferrari.
The mid-engined supercar segment, historically a bastion of raw, naturally aspirated glory, underwent a seismic shift with the introduction of the 296 GTB in 2022. Ferrari dared to replace its multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8 with a completely new twin-turbo V6, augmented by electric power. This audacious move positioned the 296 GTB at the vanguard of a segment that was only just beginning its transition to hybrid powertrains. At its debut, its primary competitor was the Lamborghini Huracán, a car celebrated for its V10 symphony, albeit one that was outgunned in raw power by the Prancing Horse. Then there was the McLaren 720S, a formidable V8-powered machine that thrived on its impressive power-to-weight ratio. Now, with the advent of the 903bhp, 10,000rpm twin-turbo V8 hybrid Lamborghini Temerario, the game has been irrevocably altered. This Temerario, a clear and aggressive challenge to Maranello’s 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta, represents Lamborghini’s boldest response yet.
Make no mistake, the 296 GTB wields serious firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree twin-turbo V6, paired with an electric motor, drives the rear wheels exclusively – a departure from the SF90’s all-wheel-drive setup. The combined output of 819bhp was a revelation, shattering conventional supercar paradigms. It’s easy to be mesmerized by such stratospheric power figures, to ponder where this relentless escalation will lead (and whether the forthcoming Lamborghini Temerario will push boundaries even further), and, more practically, where one might actually utilize such prodigious performance. But those are questions for another discussion.
What sets the 296 GTB apart is its pioneering spirit. It’s the first V6-powered Ferrari road car – the sublime 246 GT Dino, while bearing a spiritual connection, never officially wore the Prancing Horse badge in its era. It also features Ferrari’s first ‘hot-vee’ turbocharger installation, a configuration where the turbos are nestled within the engine’s V-angle, optimizing packaging and response. Crucially, it’s a plug-in hybrid, offering an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 is mounted low in a bespoke aluminum chassis, with a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, and the occupants are positioned slightly further forward.
The electric motor contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 engine alone churns out an astonishing 654bhp and 546lb ft. The headline figure of 819bhp is impressive, but Ferrari’s reticence in quoting combined peak torque is telling. It likely stems from the intricate interplay between the electric motor and the V6, but rest assured, the combined torque is, to put it mildly, considerable. The V6 unit itself is 30kg lighter than a comparable Ferrari V8, mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, slender structure, resides neatly behind the seats, contributing to the car’s balanced weight distribution.
No Ferrari would be complete without a suite of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 is no exception. Ferrari has developed its groundbreaking six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (Chassis Dynamic Sensor). This remarkable device measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. When integrated with the steering rack sensor, it provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of both driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data is fed to systems like Side Slip Control and the active E-diff, orchestrating maximum cornering speed while maintaining unwavering stability. A particularly noteworthy innovation is the ABS-evo system, activated in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, ABS-evo not only reduces stopping distances but also enhances braking performance during trail braking maneuvers into corners, a critical technique for maximizing lap times.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not to reduce drag, but to aggressively increase downforce. The manufacturer quotes a figure of 360kg at 155mph, with a significant portion of that downforce, up to 100kg, generated by an active rear wing that deploys from the rear deck. The car’s aerodynamic prowess extends beyond the active elements. Two radiators in the front are dedicated to cooling the engine and gearbox, supplemented by two condensers for the battery. Hot air is expelled beneath the car, strategically routed to avoid interfering with the airflow directed to the intercoolers along the flanks. The discreet apertures below the headlamps serve to cool the brakes, while a wing integrated into the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, effectively channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s considerable downforce is generated from beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to the underbody’s design, including the rear diffuser and the crucial ground clearance, to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The 296 GTB models we sampled on a closed circuit were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This track-focused upgrade swaps the standard dampers for race-derived Multimatic units, similar to those found on GT racing cars. It also adds further carbon fiber aerodynamic enhancements to the front, boosting front downforce by an additional 20kg. The cabin also benefits from more carbon fiber, including the door panels, contributing to an overall weight saving of 12kg. Opting for the Lexan rear engine cover further shaves off 3kg, bringing the total to 15kg. For those seeking the ultimate grip, the Fiorano package offers Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires as an upgrade from the already formidable standard Pilot Sport 4S. Moreover, Fiorano-spec cars can be personalized with an exterior graphics package, a stylish nod to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s.
Having spent considerable time scrutinizing the 296 GTB “in the metal,” I can attest to its striking beauty. It possesses a unique aesthetic, distinct from anything else on the road, with lines that subtly echo the legendary 250LM, even without the more overt graphics package.
Performance and the Thrill of the Drive
To set off, a double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss initiates drive, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will glide away on electric power alone unless directed otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode buttons on the left side of the steering wheel boss. With judicious throttle application, and provided the battery has sufficient charge, the car will continue its silent progress on electricity alone.
Drivers can also manually select EV mode, overriding any powertrain demands, or opt for the more aggressive Performance and Qualifying modes. In these settings, both the electric motor and the V6 operate in tandem. Performance mode aims for maximum output while also striving to maintain battery charge, whereas Qualifying mode unleashes the full, unadulterated fury of the powertrain, regardless of the battery’s state of depletion.
There’s an unexpected serenity in gliding through urban environments, and the sophistication of the damping makes it a remarkably comfortable car for covering long distances. Even the luggage space in the ‘frunk’ is surprisingly practical, a welcome improvement over the SF90. But, as we both know, the real question on everyone’s mind is: what does it feel like when both the engine and electric motor are unleashed?
The answer lies in the immediate surge of acceleration when you floor the throttle at low revs in a high gear. The 296 simply bolts forward, eradicating any hint of turbo lag and making you momentarily question the need for gears, such is its sheer potency. However, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that eagerly spins to 8500rpm, the full experience of the 296 is nothing short of astonishing.
As the performance figures suggest – a blistering 0-62mph sprint in a mere 2.9 seconds and a top speed of over 205mph – the rate of acceleration is an intoxicating blend of exhilarating and slightly unnerving. It’s the kind of performance that elicits nervous laughter and a primal urge to hold on tight, yet it’s also deeply addictive. This is a seriously rapid machine, and it sounds magnificent doing it, a symphony of turbocharger effects layered over the tuneful rasp of the V6.
Ride and Handling: A Masterclass in Precision
What truly elevates the 296 GTB is the astonishing responsiveness of its chassis. Ferrari’s claim that the car was engineered to be “fun to drive” is no mere marketing slogan; it’s a deeply ingrained principle. The 296 feels incredibly agile without ever becoming nervous or skittish. The steering is typically light and razor-sharp, yet it manages to convey a remarkable amount of road feel. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car’s true magic lies in its adjustability on the throttle, a trait that is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
Despite its 1470kg dry weight, the 296 feels significantly lighter. There’s a distinct lack of inertia, encouraging the driver to work with the car, making subtle inputs and reveling in its pinpoint accuracy and precision. Engaging ‘CT Off’ mode provides an incredible sense of freedom, allowing for daring maneuvers with the implicit reassurance that an electronic guardian angel is still watching over you. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the 296’s innate balance allows it to be playfully coaxed into oversteer in a manner one would never anticipate from a car producing 819bhp.
On a racetrack, the 296 possesses the uncanny ability to shrink even the longest start-finish straight. What becomes even more apparent is its precision as a surgical instrument. The power is certainly sufficient to break rear traction at numerous points around the lap, but the 296 is also acutely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It quickly becomes apparent that precision with the controls yields the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and response are simply phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of easing the car into turns and allowing loads to build gradually, the 296 settles immediately, its Multimatic dampers working in concert with the hyper-quick steering and the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even if you’ve just stepped out of a more conventional sports car, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are nothing short of phenomenal, providing a joyous experience lap after lap.
Interior: A Blend of Familiarity and Futuristic Interface
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. The 296 borrows heavily from its flagship sibling, featuring a fully digital interface and an array of haptic switchgear. These controls are liberally scattered across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods flanking it.
While undoubtedly complex, it’s important to acknowledge the sheer volume of information and functionality these systems manage. However, the primary frustration lies in the fact that seemingly simple operations can sometimes require a second press to register, or one is left uncertain whether a press has been successful at all. Despite these interface quirks, the cabin undeniably feels like a special place to be, exuding an aura of bespoke craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict: A Triumph of Hybrid Integration
“Now it gets serious,” declared Peter Tomalin, evo’s editor, reflecting on the Car of the Year 2022 awards. “When the scores were tallied, there was barely a hair’s breadth between the McLaren Artura and the 296 GTB. The judges were perfectly split too: three of us narrowly preferred the Ferrari, while three scored the McLaren ahead by a whisker.”
The three judges who placed the 296 at the top were Jethro Bovingdon, Henry Catchpole, and Tomalin himself. “What a spectacular car,” enthused Jethro. “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.”
Dickie Meaden offered a particularly striking endorsement: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355,” a sentiment echoed by many. “The hybrid system works exceptionally 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 it doesn’t rely solely on speed, thanks to the character of the V6, which possesses a soundtrack that’s always sweet and evolves with throttle opening.”
While the Ferrari’s hybridisation received widespread praise for its seamless integration, a notable incident occurred on the final night when the car was left stranded after the battery depleted with no apparent means of revival. To be fair, Ferrari had cautioned about this possibility and provided detailed procedures to prevent it. However, as Jethro Gallagher pointed out, “it’s not inconceivable that an owner could find themselves similarly stuck, and for the company that pioneered individual rear-wheel steering to not engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this is a huge oversight.” Fortunately for the 296, this occurred after all cars had been scored.
Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering divided opinion, and the brake feel didn’t quite match the very best in the group. The tech interface also faced widespread criticism for its complexity. Yet, despite these drawbacks, the 296 was deemed irresistibly seductive. “I thought I wouldn’t like the Fezza all that much – too complex, rather gratuitous points of difference,” admitted Vivian. “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 concluded: “It’s a real return to form for Ferrari, after the SF90 left us cold last year. As Ollie Marriage stated: ‘The 296 is far more successful because its technical sophistication, and the integration of its hybrid technology in particular, feels much more natural and far less intrusive.’ And Jethro Gallagher agreed: ‘Ferrari has taken so much from the SF90, learned from that car, and distilled it into a series-production model that is one of its very best.’”
Price, Rivals, and the Future of Supercar Supremacy
When a car is so heavily laden with cutting-edge technology, there’s always a risk that it might feel less than the sum of its parts – a sensation we experienced with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, felt somewhat inscrutable in its driving characteristics.
However, the 296 GTB is a different proposition entirely. As demonstrated at the evo Car of the Year 2022 awards, where it secured joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, it feels far more organic. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect balance, redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket can be. A Versione Speciale variant of the 296 is anticipated, promising even greater power, performance, and intensity. The crucial hope is that it retains the standard 296’s inexplicably natural and connected feel.
It is this very aspect of the 296 GTB’s character that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized when honing its hybrid Temerario supercar. Over 900bhp is an obscene amount of power to manage in a series-production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm if the rest of the vehicle isn’t meticulously resolved to complement it. If Lamborghini has truly nailed it – and the sheer brilliance of the Revuelto provides ample reason for optimism – then we are poised for an epic twin test, potentially featuring a combined horsepower output exceeding 1700bhp.
Alternatively, we could even contemplate a 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S. Absurdly, this car is now the “minnow” of the class, with a mere 740bhp. However, as previously noted, it brings a relatively petite 1389kg kerb weight to the table, resulting in a highly competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw, ergonomically perfect design, the crispness of its steering, and the deftness of its chassis demonstrably set it apart against the comparatively more remote feeling of the Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB: Technical Specifications
Engine: V6, 2992cc, twin-turbo, 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 automotive landscape is in constant flux, and the convergence of electrification and traditional performance engineering is creating machines that were once the stuff of pure fantasy. The Ferrari 296 GTB stands as a testament to this evolution, a car that delivers not only blistering performance but also an engaging and connected driving experience.
If you’re captivated by the future of supercar performance and the artistry of Italian engineering, we invite you to explore the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB further. Connect with your local Ferrari dealership or a trusted automotive specialist to arrange a private viewing or to learn more about securing your place behind the wheel of this extraordinary machine. The future of the supercar has arrived, and it’s more exhilarating than ever.