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The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterclass Facing Electrifying Competition
For a decade now, the supercar landscape has been in a state of constant flux, a relentless pursuit of power, precision, and ever-elusive driver engagement. As an industry veteran who’s witnessed these transformations firsthand, I can attest that few marques have navigated this evolution with the grace and audacity of Ferrari. Their 296 GTB, introduced in 2022, represents not just a shift, but a seismic realignment in their mid-engined supercar philosophy. It boldly steps away from the venerable, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8, embracing a new era powered by a potent twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by sophisticated electric assistance. This isn’t just a minor update; it’s Ferrari taking the initiative in a segment that, until recently, had been slower to adopt widespread hybridization.
When the 296 GTB first burst onto the scene, its primary rivals occupied different philosophical camps. The Lamborghini Huracán, with its evocative naturally-aspirated V10, offered raw charisma and a glorious soundtrack, even if it lagged in outright horsepower. Then there was the ferocious McLaren 720S, a masterclass in lightweight, twin-turbo V8 performance. While the McLaren 750S has evolved this theme, focusing on its power-to-weight supremacy, the impending arrival of the Lamborghini Temerario – a 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid beast – presents a direct, uncompromising challenge to Maranello’s 819bhp hybrid marvel. This is the heart of the matter: how does Ferrari’s V6 hybrid supercar stand against a rapidly electrifying and increasingly potent Italian rival?
The numbers emanating from the 296 GTB are, frankly, staggering. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6, coupled with an electric motor driving exclusively the rear wheels (a distinction from the four-wheel-drive SF90), produces a combined 819bhp. This powertrain configuration has fundamentally reshaped supercar conventions, forcing competitors to re-evaluate their approach. It’s easy to become fixated on these headline figures, to ponder the ultimate limits of power escalation in the supercar realm – a question that the upcoming Lamborghini Temerario price and performance figures will undoubtedly address. But the real fascination lies in understanding where and how such colossal performance can be effectively deployed, a question that drives the very essence of performance hybrid supercars.
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is its pioneering spirit. It marks Ferrari’s first-ever V6-powered road car (the exquisite Dino 246 GT, while V6, never bore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era). It also pioneers Ferrari’s “hot-vee” turbocharger layout, where the turbos are nestled within the engine’s cylinder banks, facilitating a more compact design and quicker throttle response. Furthermore, it’s a plug-in hybrid, boasting an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6, nestled low in a new aluminum chassis, sits within a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with the occupants positioned slightly further forward, contributing to a more centralized mass.
The electric motor contributes a formidable 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone unleashes a sensational 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari, in its characteristic prudence, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this synergy results in a truly colossal amount of pulling power, a critical factor in the Ferrari 296 GTB performance. The V6 powertrain itself offers a weight saving of 30kg over previous V8s, and it’s mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, flat structure, is ingeniously housed behind the seats, contributing to the car’s exceptional weight distribution.
No Ferrari is complete without a suite of advanced electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. Its sophisticated six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (Chassis Dynamic Sensor), is a revelation. This system measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. When combined with sensors on the steering rack, it provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of driver intent and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data feeds into the Side Slip Control and active E-diff, optimizing cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability. This technological prowess enables the novel ABS-evo system, which, in RACE mode and above, utilizes the car’s brake-by-wire technology to significantly reduce stopping distances and enhance braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, a crucial element for track day supercars.
In a departure from convention, Ferrari is now leveraging its active aerodynamics not primarily for drag reduction, but to generate substantial downforce. The 296 GTB can produce an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion, up to 100kg, generated by the active rear wing that deploys from the car’s tail. This intricate aerodynamic package is meticulously designed to enhance grip and stability at extreme speeds, a vital consideration for any exotic car driving experience.
Cooling is another area where the 296 GTB excels. Two radiators in the front manage engine and gearbox temperatures, supplemented by two condensers dedicated to cooling the battery. Hot air is expelled from the underbody, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the airflow directed towards the intercoolers along the car’s flanks. The discreet apertures below the headlights are dedicated to brake cooling, while the roofline-integrated wing subtly creates a “virtual” rear screen, channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is sculpted from beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to the underbody channels, the rear diffuser, and crucially, the ground clearance, to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating elements.
During our initial circuit evaluations, the 296 GTB models were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance upgrade swaps the standard dampers for race-derived Multimatic units, akin to those found in GT racing, and adds carbon fiber aerodynamic enhancements to the front splitter, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The cabin also features more carbon fiber, including the door panels, contributing to a significant 12kg weight saving, which can be further increased to 15kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For the ultimate track-focused setup, Assetto Fiorano cars can be optioned with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the already potent standard Pilot Sport 4S. Furthermore, the Assetto Fiorano package allows for an exterior graphics option, paying homage to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s, a nod to Ferrari’s rich racing heritage. The Ferrari 296 GTB price with these options naturally escalates, reflecting its bespoke nature.
Having had the opportunity to experience the 296 GTB extensively, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It presents a striking departure from anything else on the road, exuding a unique visual identity that, even without the optional graphics, evokes the spirit of the legendary 250LM. The design language speaks of purpose and performance, a hallmark of truly exceptional Italian sports cars.
Initiating the drive is a simple, intuitive process: a double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, enabling silent departure on electric power alone, unless the driver overrides this via the haptic mode selectors on the steering wheel. As long as the throttle application is gentle, and the battery has sufficient charge, purely electric propulsion is maintained. Drivers can also manually select full EV mode, irrespective of powertrain demands, or engage the more potent Performance and Qualifying modes. In these settings, both the V6 and electric motor work in concert. Performance mode prioritizes maximizing output while also aiming to replenish the battery, whereas Qualifying mode unleashes the full, unadulterated fury of the hybrid powertrain, with no regard for the battery’s state of charge. This versatility makes the 296 GTB a compelling choice for luxury hybrid supercars.
The sensation of gliding silently through urban landscapes is a surprisingly serene experience. The damping is so sophisticated that it transforms the cabin into an exceptionally comfortable space for covering significant distances. Even the ‘frunk’ offers a reasonable amount of luggage space, a practical advantage over the SF90. However, the true question on everyone’s mind, mine included, is the visceral thrill of unleashing both power sources in their full glory.
The immediate surge of acceleration when planting the throttle from low revs in a higher gear is nothing short of astonishing. There’s no discernible turbo lag, and the sheer potency of the combined powertrain makes one momentarily question the very necessity of gear changes. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that revs to a spine-tingling 8500rpm, the full assault on the senses when the 296 is truly uncorked is nothing short of breathtaking. The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph sprint in a mere 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205mph – translate into a raw, visceral experience that’s both exhilarating and, at times, almost overwhelming. It’s a captivating blend of sheer velocity and addictive sensation, solidifying its position among the fastest hybrid cars. The accompanying soundtrack is equally impressive, a harmonious V6 rasp complemented by a symphony of turbocharger effects.
The responsiveness of the 296 GTB’s chassis is a standout feature. Ferrari’s promise of making this car ‘fun to drive’ is not an idle claim. It exhibits a remarkable agility that never encroaches on nervousness. The steering is typically light and rapid, yet it communicates a surprising level of road feel. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains wonderfully adjustable on the throttle, eliciting an infectious grin with every corner exit.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a palpable lack of inertia, an eagerness that encourages the driver to work with the car, making subtle inputs and reveling in its pinpoint accuracy and precision. Engaging CT Off mode allows for exhilarating moments of controlled exuberance, knowing that a sophisticated electronic safety net is still in place. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the inherent balance of the 296 GTB allows for controlled oversteer, a feat one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp. For those seeking the ultimate driving experience supercars, the 296 GTB delivers in spades.
On track, the 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to shrink even the longest start-finish straight. Its razor-sharp focus as a precision instrument becomes immediately apparent. The sheer power is more than capable of breaking rear traction at numerous points around the circuit, but the 296 GTB is exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It rewards precision, transforming corner entries into moments of pure theatre. The turn-in accuracy and response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the approach phase of every corner. Instead of gradually loading the chassis, the 296 GTB settles instantly, its Multimatic dampers working in perfect harmony with the hyper-quick steering and the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for a seasoned driver transitioning from a more conventional sports car, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are nothing short of a revelation, offering sheer joy lap after lap. This level of dynamic refinement is precisely what separates the elite from the rest in the supercar market.
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. The 296 GTB inherits its purely digital interface and the accompanying haptic switchgear, which, while undeniably complex, is extensively integrated into the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods. While the sheer volume of information to be processed can be overwhelming, the primary frustration lies in the occasional need for a second press for simple operations, or the uncertainty of whether an input has been registered. Despite these ergonomic quirks, the cabin undeniably imparts a sense of occasion and exclusivity, a true sanctuary for the discerning automotive enthusiast.
In our 2022 “evo Car of the Year” assessment, the 296 GTB emerged as a true contender, narrowly missing out on the top spot by a margin finer than a “fag paper” against the McLaren Artura. The judges were famously split, with three favoring the Ferrari and three leaning towards the McLaren. Those who placed the 296 GTB ahead, including myself, lauded its spectacular nature. Its breathtaking beauty, outrageous speed, astonishing exploitability, and sheer technical brilliance were highlighted. Jethro Bovingdon’s enthusiasm was palpable: “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 echoed sentiments of aesthetic admiration: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further commented on the seamless integration of the hybrid system: “The hybrid system works very well, and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared. Probably because we’ve already got used to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8 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 has a soundtrack that’s always sweet and changes with throttle opening.”
While the hybridisation was widely praised for its seamless integration, a notable incident saw the car stranded after the battery depleted, with no apparent means of recovery. Ferrari had indeed cautioned about this possibility and outlined preventative measures. However, as Gallagher aptly noted, “that the company who introduced individual rear-wheel steering to its cars can’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this happening is a huge oversight.” Fortunately, this occurred after the scoring was complete. Despite this, the Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering, while divisive, and brake feel not matching the absolute best in class, were acknowledged. The tech interface also faced criticism for its complexity. Nevertheless, the 296 GTB proved irresistibly seductive. Vivian’s initial skepticism transformed into bewitchment: “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…”
As Peter Tomalin, editor of evo, concluded in his 2022 Ecoty verdict: “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. 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.” This sentiment underscores the 296 GTB’s position as a significant achievement in new supercar technology.
The inherent risk with any vehicle laden with cutting-edge technology is that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a criticism leveled at the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, proved challenging to fully connect with on a dynamic level. The 296 GTB, however, represents a profound departure. As evidenced by its strong performance in the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, it possesses a more organic feel. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a near-perfect sweet spot, redefining expectations for a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket. Rumors of a Ferrari 296 GTB Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power and intensity, are circulating, and the hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be retained.
It is this crucial aspect of driver connection and inherent balance that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario. With over 900bhp, the Lamborghini represents an almost obscene amount of power for a production supercar. If the rest of the car isn’t meticulously engineered to complement such a potent powertrain, it risks becoming an unruly beast. Given the exceptional competence displayed in the Lamborghini Revuelto review, there’s every reason to be optimistic. A head-to-head comparison between the 296 GTB and the Temerario promises an electrifying showdown, potentially even a 1700bhp twin-test.
Adding the McLaren 750S into the mix, with its comparatively modest 740bhp, creates a truly astonishing 2400bhp triple threat. While seemingly the “minnow” of this group, the McLaren’s remarkably lithe 1389kg kerb weight ensures a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw feedback, ergonomic perfection, crisp steering, and deft chassis control offer a distinctly more connected experience compared to the Ferrari’s more insulated, albeit technologically superior, demeanor. When considering 2025 supercar comparisons, these three represent the absolute pinnacle of current automotive engineering and performance.
For those seeking the ultimate expression of hybrid supercar performance, the Ferrari 296 GTB offers an unparalleled blend of blistering speed, astonishing agility, and sophisticated technology. Its ability to engage the driver while delivering mind-bending performance sets a new benchmark.
Considering the future of automotive innovation and the thrilling pace of hybrid supercar development, are you ready to explore the possibilities that the Ferrari 296 GTB and its formidable rivals bring to the road? Schedule your consultation today to discover how you can experience the next generation of automotive excellence.
The Ferrari 296 GTB: A Hybrid Masterclass Facing Electrifying Competition
For a decade now, the supercar landscape has been in a state of constant flux, a relentless pursuit of power, precision, and ever-elusive driver engagement. As an industry veteran who’s witnessed these transformations firsthand, I can attest that few marques have navigated this evolution with the grace and audacity of Ferrari. Their 296 GTB, introduced in 2022, represents not just a shift, but a seismic realignment in their mid-engined supercar philosophy. It boldly steps away from the venerable, multi-award-winning twin-turbo V8, embracing a new era powered by a potent twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by sophisticated electric assistance. This isn’t just a minor update; it’s Ferrari taking the initiative in a segment that, until recently, had been slower to adopt widespread hybridization.
When the 296 GTB first burst onto the scene, its primary rivals occupied different philosophical camps. The Lamborghini Huracán, with its evocative naturally-aspirated V10, offered raw charisma and a glorious soundtrack, even if it lagged in outright horsepower. Then there was the ferocious McLaren 720S, a masterclass in lightweight, twin-turbo V8 performance. While the McLaren 750S has evolved this theme, focusing on its power-to-weight supremacy, the impending arrival of the Lamborghini Temerario – a 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid beast – presents a direct, uncompromising challenge to Maranello’s 819bhp hybrid marvel. This is the heart of the matter: how does Ferrari’s V6 hybrid supercar stand against a rapidly electrifying and increasingly potent Italian rival?
The numbers emanating from the 296 GTB are, frankly, staggering. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6, coupled with an electric motor driving exclusively the rear wheels (a distinction from the four-wheel-drive SF90), produces a combined 819bhp. This powertrain configuration has fundamentally reshaped supercar conventions, forcing competitors to re-evaluate their approach. It’s easy to become fixated on these headline figures, to ponder the ultimate limits of power escalation in the supercar realm – a question that the upcoming Lamborghini Temerario price and performance figures will undoubtedly address. But the real fascination lies in understanding where and how such colossal performance can be effectively deployed, a question that drives the very essence of performance hybrid supercars.
What truly sets the 296 GTB apart is its pioneering spirit. It marks Ferrari’s first-ever V6-powered road car (the exquisite Dino 246 GT, while V6, never bore the Prancing Horse emblem in its era). It also pioneers Ferrari’s “hot-vee” turbocharger layout, where the turbos are nestled within the engine’s cylinder banks, facilitating a more compact design and quicker throttle response. Furthermore, it’s a plug-in hybrid, boasting an all-electric range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6, nestled low in a new aluminum chassis, sits within a wheelbase shortened by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with the occupants positioned slightly further forward, contributing to a more centralized mass.
The electric motor contributes a formidable 165bhp and 232lb ft of torque, while the V6 alone unleashes a sensational 654bhp and 546lb ft. Ferrari, in its characteristic prudence, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the intricate interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor. However, it’s safe to assume this synergy results in a truly colossal amount of pulling power, a critical factor in the Ferrari 296 GTB performance. The V6 powertrain itself offers a weight saving of 30kg over previous V8s, and it’s mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a long, flat structure, is ingeniously housed behind the seats, contributing to the car’s exceptional weight distribution.
No Ferrari is complete without a suite of advanced electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. Its sophisticated six-axis sensor, dubbed the 6w-CDS (Chassis Dynamic Sensor), is a revelation. This system measures acceleration and rotational speed across the X, Y, and Z planes, effectively replacing traditional yaw sensors. When combined with sensors on the steering rack, it provides the car with an unparalleled understanding of driver intent and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patch. This data feeds into the Side Slip Control and active E-diff, optimizing cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability. This technological prowess enables the novel ABS-evo system, which, in RACE mode and above, utilizes the car’s brake-by-wire technology to significantly reduce stopping distances and enhance braking performance during trail-braking maneuvers, a crucial element for track day supercars.
In a departure from convention, Ferrari is now leveraging its active aerodynamics not primarily for drag reduction, but to generate substantial downforce. The 296 GTB can produce an impressive 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion, up to 100kg, generated by the active rear wing that deploys from the car’s tail. This intricate aerodynamic package is meticulously designed to enhance grip and stability at extreme speeds, a vital consideration for any exotic car driving experience.
Cooling is another area where the 296 GTB excels. Two radiators in the front manage engine and gearbox temperatures, supplemented by two condensers dedicated to cooling the battery. Hot air is expelled from the underbody, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the airflow directed towards the intercoolers along the car’s flanks. The discreet apertures below the headlights are dedicated to brake cooling, while the roofline-integrated wing subtly creates a “virtual” rear screen, channeling air towards the rear of the car as if guided by a physical surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is sculpted from beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to the underbody channels, the rear diffuser, and crucially, the ground clearance, to maximize the effectiveness of these downforce-generating elements.
During our initial circuit evaluations, the 296 GTB models were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance upgrade swaps the standard dampers for race-derived Multimatic units, akin to those found in GT racing, and adds carbon fiber aerodynamic enhancements to the front splitter, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The cabin also features more carbon fiber, including the door panels, contributing to a significant 12kg weight saving, which can be further increased to 15kg with the optional Lexan rear engine cover. For the ultimate track-focused setup, Assetto Fiorano cars can be optioned with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, replacing the already potent standard Pilot Sport 4S. Furthermore, the Assetto Fiorano package allows for an exterior graphics option, paying homage to the iconic 250LM of the 1960s, a nod to Ferrari’s rich racing heritage. The Ferrari 296 GTB price with these options naturally escalates, reflecting its bespoke nature.
Having had the opportunity to experience the 296 GTB extensively, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable. It presents a striking departure from anything else on the road, exuding a unique visual identity that, even without the optional graphics, evokes the spirit of the legendary 250LM. The design language speaks of purpose and performance, a hallmark of truly exceptional Italian sports cars.
Initiating the drive is a simple, intuitive process: a double press on the lower section of the steering wheel boss, followed by selecting first gear. The 296 GTB defaults to Hybrid mode, enabling silent departure on electric power alone, unless the driver overrides this via the haptic mode selectors on the steering wheel. As long as the throttle application is gentle, and the battery has sufficient charge, purely electric propulsion is maintained. Drivers can also manually select full EV mode, irrespective of powertrain demands, or engage the more potent Performance and Qualifying modes. In these settings, both the V6 and electric motor work in concert. Performance mode prioritizes maximizing output while also aiming to replenish the battery, whereas Qualifying mode unleashes the full, unadulterated fury of the hybrid powertrain, with no regard for the battery’s state of charge. This versatility makes the 296 GTB a compelling choice for luxury hybrid supercars.
The sensation of gliding silently through urban landscapes is a surprisingly serene experience. The damping is so sophisticated that it transforms the cabin into an exceptionally comfortable space for covering significant distances. Even the ‘frunk’ offers a reasonable amount of luggage space, a practical advantage over the SF90. However, the true question on everyone’s mind, mine included, is the visceral thrill of unleashing both power sources in their full glory.
The immediate surge of acceleration when planting the throttle from low revs in a higher gear is nothing short of astonishing. There’s no discernible turbo lag, and the sheer potency of the combined powertrain makes one momentarily question the very necessity of gear changes. Yet, with eight gears to exploit and an engine that revs to a spine-tingling 8500rpm, the full assault on the senses when the 296 is truly uncorked is nothing short of breathtaking. The acceleration figures – a blistering 0-62mph sprint in a mere 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 205mph – translate into a raw, visceral experience that’s both exhilarating and, at times, almost overwhelming. It’s a captivating blend of sheer velocity and addictive sensation, solidifying its position among the fastest hybrid cars. The accompanying soundtrack is equally impressive, a harmonious V6 rasp complemented by a symphony of turbocharger effects.
The responsiveness of the 296 GTB’s chassis is a standout feature. Ferrari’s promise of making this car ‘fun to drive’ is not an idle claim. It exhibits a remarkable agility that never encroaches on nervousness. The steering is typically light and rapid, yet it communicates a surprising level of road feel. While grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains wonderfully adjustable on the throttle, eliciting an infectious grin with every corner exit.
Despite its dry weight of 1470kg, the 296 GTB feels significantly lighter. There’s a palpable lack of inertia, an eagerness that encourages the driver to work with the car, making subtle inputs and reveling in its pinpoint accuracy and precision. Engaging CT Off mode allows for exhilarating moments of controlled exuberance, knowing that a sophisticated electronic safety net is still in place. Even with all electronic aids deactivated, the inherent balance of the 296 GTB allows for controlled oversteer, a feat one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp. For those seeking the ultimate driving experience supercars, the 296 GTB delivers in spades.
On track, the 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to shrink even the longest start-finish straight. Its razor-sharp focus as a precision instrument becomes immediately apparent. The sheer power is more than capable of breaking rear traction at numerous points around the circuit, but the 296 GTB is exquisitely sensitive to braking and steering inputs. It rewards precision, transforming corner entries into moments of pure theatre. The turn-in accuracy and response are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the approach phase of every corner. Instead of gradually loading the chassis, the 296 GTB settles instantly, its Multimatic dampers working in perfect harmony with the hyper-quick steering and the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup. Even for a seasoned driver transitioning from a more conventional sports car, the speed, precision, and agility of the 296 GTB are nothing short of a revelation, offering sheer joy lap after lap. This level of dynamic refinement is precisely what separates the elite from the rest in the supercar market.
The cabin architecture will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90. The 296 GTB inherits its purely digital interface and the accompanying haptic switchgear, which, while undeniably complex, is extensively integrated into the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods. While the sheer volume of information to be processed can be overwhelming, the primary frustration lies in the occasional need for a second press for simple operations, or the uncertainty of whether an input has been registered. Despite these ergonomic quirks, the cabin undeniably imparts a sense of occasion and exclusivity, a true sanctuary for the discerning automotive enthusiast.
In our 2022 “evo Car of the Year” assessment, the 296 GTB emerged as a true contender, narrowly missing out on the top spot by a margin finer than a “fag paper” against the McLaren Artura. The judges were famously split, with three favoring the Ferrari and three leaning towards the McLaren. Those who placed the 296 GTB ahead, including myself, lauded its spectacular nature. Its breathtaking beauty, outrageous speed, astonishing exploitability, and sheer technical brilliance were highlighted. Jethro Bovingdon’s enthusiasm was palpable: “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 echoed sentiments of aesthetic admiration: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further commented on the seamless integration of the hybrid system: “The hybrid system works very well, and doesn’t change the driving experience as much as I’d feared. Probably because we’ve already got used to the torquey characteristics of the turbocharged V8 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 has a soundtrack that’s always sweet and changes with throttle opening.”
While the hybridisation was widely praised for its seamless integration, a notable incident saw the car stranded after the battery depleted, with no apparent means of recovery. Ferrari had indeed cautioned about this possibility and outlined preventative measures. However, as Gallagher aptly noted, “that the company who introduced individual rear-wheel steering to its cars can’t engineer a simple fail-safe to prevent this happening is a huge oversight.” Fortunately, this occurred after the scoring was complete. Despite this, the Ferrari’s signature ultra-quick steering, while divisive, and brake feel not matching the absolute best in class, were acknowledged. The tech interface also faced criticism for its complexity. Nevertheless, the 296 GTB proved irresistibly seductive. Vivian’s initial skepticism transformed into bewitchment: “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…”
As Peter Tomalin, editor of evo, concluded in his 2022 Ecoty verdict: “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. 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.” This sentiment underscores the 296 GTB’s position as a significant achievement in new supercar technology.
The inherent risk with any vehicle laden with cutting-edge technology is that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a criticism leveled at the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, proved challenging to fully connect with on a dynamic level. The 296 GTB, however, represents a profound departure. As evidenced by its strong performance in the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards, it possesses a more organic feel. Its potent blend of power and engaging dynamics strikes a near-perfect sweet spot, redefining expectations for a supercar in the £250,000-plus bracket. Rumors of a Ferrari 296 GTB Versione Speciale variant, promising even greater power and intensity, are circulating, and the hope is that the standard 296’s remarkably natural feel will be retained.
It is this crucial aspect of driver connection and inherent balance that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in the development of its hybrid Temerario. With over 900bhp, the Lamborghini represents an almost obscene amount of power for a production supercar. If the rest of the car isn’t meticulously engineered to complement such a potent powertrain, it risks becoming an unruly beast. Given the exceptional competence displayed in the Lamborghini Revuelto review, there’s every reason to be optimistic. A head-to-head comparison between the 296 GTB and the Temerario promises an electrifying showdown, potentially even a 1700bhp twin-test.
Adding the McLaren 750S into the mix, with its comparatively modest 740bhp, creates a truly astonishing 2400bhp triple threat. While seemingly the “minnow” of this group, the McLaren’s remarkably lithe 1389kg kerb weight ensures a competitive power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s raw feedback, ergonomic perfection, crisp steering, and deft chassis control offer a distinctly more connected experience compared to the Ferrari’s more insulated, albeit technologically superior, demeanor. When considering 2025 supercar comparisons, these three represent the absolute pinnacle of current automotive engineering and performance.
For those seeking the ultimate expression of hybrid supercar performance, the Ferrari 296 GTB offers an unparalleled blend of blistering speed, astonishing agility, and sophisticated technology. Its ability to engage the driver while delivering mind-bending performance sets a new benchmark.
Considering the future of automotive innovation and the thrilling pace of hybrid supercar development, are you ready to explore the possibilities that the Ferrari 296 GTB and its formidable rivals bring to the road? Schedule your consultation today to discover how you can experience the next generation of automotive excellence.