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The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Era of Hybrid Supercar Performance and Driving Purity
For over half a century, Ferrari has defined the mid-engined supercar archetype. The roar of a naturally aspirated V12, the precision of a gated shifter, the sheer, unadulterated drama – these were the hallmarks. Then came the 2022 unveiling of the Ferrari 296 GTB, a car that signaled not just an evolution, but a revolution. While it’s been a couple of years since its debut, the impact of this electrifying V6 hybrid supercar continues to resonate, especially as formidable rivals like the anticipated Lamborghini Temerario emerge. The 296 GTB isn’t just another Ferrari; it’s the vanguard of a new, hybrid-powered future for the Prancing Horse, and it’s a future that’s already challenging established norms and setting an exceptionally high bar for its competitors.
The transition from a beloved, award-winning twin-turbo V8 to a new twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by an electric motor, was a bold move. In a supercar segment that’s still in the nascent stages of embracing hybrid technology, the 296 GTB took the lead. Its debut placed it in direct competition with titans like the Lamborghini Huracán, celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10 symphony, and the potent McLaren 720S, a V8-powered benchmark of aerodynamic efficiency and power-to-weight ratio. While the McLaren 750S represents an evolution of that theme, the 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid V8 Temerario is clearly Lamborghini’s direct response to Maranello’s 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta.
The Ferrari 296 GTB, however, arrives packing truly staggering firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, paired with an electric motor driving only the rear wheels (a distinction from the all-wheel-drive SF90), delivers a combined output of 819 horsepower. This configuration didn’t just push boundaries; it fundamentally redefined what a supercar could be. The 296 GTB is the first V6-powered Ferrari road car in history, predating even the iconic Dino 246 GT (which, it’s important to note, never officially wore the Prancing Horse badge during its production). It also marks the debut of Ferrari’s “hot-vee” turbocharger layout and, crucially, its plug-in hybrid capability, offering a respectable EV-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 unit is mounted low within a bespoke aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase reduced by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward for an even more engaging driving posture.
The electric motor itself contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 alone churns out an astonishing 654bhp and 546 lb-ft. Ferrari, in its characteristic style, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine. Nevertheless, it’s safe to assume this combined torque output is nothing short of immense. Overall, the V6 saves approximately 30kg compared to a Ferrari V8, and it’s mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, elongated structure, is discreetly housed behind the seats, ensuring optimal weight distribution and minimizing intrusion into the cabin.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. The engineers in Maranello have developed a revolutionary six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS, capable of precisely measuring acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. This advanced sensor replaces traditional yaw sensors and, working in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data is then fed to other systems, such as the renowned Side Slip Control and the active E-diff, to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. A particularly exciting innovation is the new ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, this system not only shortens braking distances but also enhances braking performance during trail braking maneuvers, allowing for more precise corner entry.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not solely to reduce drag, but to generate downforce. The company quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion – up to 100kg – derived from the deployable rear wing integrated into the car’s tail. The thermal management system is equally impressive, featuring two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two condensers dedicated to battery cooling. Hot air is strategically expelled underneath the car to avoid disrupting the airflow directed towards the intercoolers along the flanks. The discreet apertures below the headlights are dedicated to cooling the front brakes, while a wing integrated into the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding airflow to the rear of the car as if it were flowing over a defined surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to channeling air, optimizing the rear diffuser, and carefully managing the underbody’s ground clearance to enhance the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The examples of the 296 GTB we sampled on the launch circuit were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from Ferrari’s GT racing endeavors. It also adds further carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The cabin benefits from more carbon fiber, including the door panels, and additional exterior carbon components, contributing to a total weight saving of 12kg. This can be extended to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Further enhancing the Assetto Fiorano experience, customers can opt for Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a step up from the already capable standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Fiorano package also offers an exclusive exterior graphics package, inspired by the legendary 250LM of the 1960s, further cementing the car’s heritage-rich lineage. Visually, the 296 GTB is a striking departure from anything else on the road. It’s a sculpted masterpiece, a testament to modern automotive design that still manages to evoke a sense of timeless elegance, even without the more polarizing graphic options.
To initiate forward motion in the 296 GTB, a simple double-press of the lower button on the steering wheel boss is all that’s required, followed by selecting first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will depart silently on electric power alone, unless the driver explicitly selects otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode controls on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as throttle inputs are kept measured, and the battery has sufficient charge, the 296 will continue its journey on pure electric power. For those seeking an even more dedicated electric experience, a ‘Force EV’ mode can be selected, irrespective of other powertrain demands. Beyond that lie the Performance and Qualifying modes. In Performance mode, both the V6 engine and electric motor work in tandem, with a focus on maintaining battery charge. Qualifying mode, as the name suggests, unleashes the full, unadulterated performance potential, disregarding the battery’s state of charge.
The sheer tranquility of gliding through urban landscapes on electric power is an unexpected pleasure. Furthermore, the sophistication of the damping system ensures a surprisingly comfortable ride, allowing for effortless long-distance cruising. Even the luggage space in the front ‘frunk’ is surprisingly practical, a welcome improvement over the SF90. But let’s be honest, what truly ignites our curiosity is the sensation of unleashing both the V6 engine and the electric motor to their full potential. The immediate surge of power when planting the throttle at low revs in a high gear is astonishing. The 296 bolts forward with such immediacy, it momentarily makes you question the very necessity of gears – such is its raw potency. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that readily spins to 8500rpm, the experience of truly winding out the 296 is nothing short of sensational. The acceleration figures speak volumes – a blistering 0-62mph time in the sub-3-second bracket and a top speed exceeding 200mph – resulting in a surge of acceleration that is both exhilarating and, at times, almost overwhelming, verging on the uncomfortable, yet paradoxically addictive. This is a car that delivers serious velocity, and it sounds magnificent doing so, with a captivating blend of turbocharger effects and the tuneful rasp of the V6.
The truly remarkable aspect of the 296 GTB is its chassis responsiveness. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered for pure driving enjoyment is not hyperbole; it’s a tangible reality. The 296 feels incredibly agile without ever becoming nervous or unpredictable. The steering, as is typical of Ferrari, is light and exceptionally quick, but crucially, it’s also communicative, providing a genuine sense of connection to the road. While the grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains delightfully adjustable on the throttle, eliciting grins with every spirited corner exit. It feels significantly lighter than its stated dry weight of 1470kg would suggest. There’s a delightful lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, which encourages a more fluid, intuitive driving style, rewarding precise, small inputs and reveling in its accuracy. Engaging CT Off mode offers a tantalizing degree of freedom, with the reassurance that an incredibly sophisticated electronic guardian is still diligently overseeing proceedings. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the inherent balance of the 296 allows it to be coaxed into controlled oversteer in a manner one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp.
On a racetrack, the 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel compressed. What becomes even more apparent is its surgical precision. The power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the circuit, but the 296 is also exceptionally sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that meticulous control translates into the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and immediacy are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of gradually loading the tires, the 296 settles into its line instantly, aided by the Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which complements the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup beautifully. Even for those transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are nothing short of phenomenal, offering a joyous and rewarding experience lap after lap.
The interior architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90, as the 296 borrows heavily from its more potent sibling. However, the transition to a fully digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, liberally applied across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods, presents a learning curve. It’s undeniably complex, but then again, there’s a vast amount of information and functionality to manage. The most frustrating aspect can be the occasional need for a second press for simple operations that didn’t register the first time, or the uncertainty as to whether a command has actually been executed. Despite these minor usability quirks, the cabin undeniably exudes a sense of occasion and exclusivity.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict: A Triumph of Hybrid Integration
The feedback from the evo Car of the Year 2022 awards provides compelling insight into the 296 GTB’s exceptional standing. As Peter Tomalin, ecoty 2022, eloquently put it: “Now it gets serious. When the scores were totted up, there wasn’t even the road tester’s legendary fag paper between the Artura and 296 GTB. The judges were perfectly split too: three of us narrowly preferred the Ferrari to the McLaren; three scored the Macca ahead by a whisker.”
The advocates for the Ferrari articulated profound admiration. Jethro, one of the judges, enthusiastically described it as: “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.”
Dickie’s verdict resonated deeply with many: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further elaborated on 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 Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely lauded for its seamless integration, a notable incident occurred where the battery depleted, leaving the car stranded. Ferrari had indeed provided guidance on preventing such occurrences, but it highlighted a potential vulnerability. As Gallagher observed: “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 for the 296, this occurred after all scoring was complete.
Despite some reservations regarding Ferrari’s signature super-quick steering and brake feel not matching the very best in the group, and the widely criticized complexity of the tech interface, the 296’s allure was undeniable. Vivian 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…”
In conclusion, the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards solidified the 296 GTB’s position as a triumphant return to form for Ferrari, especially when compared to the less impactful SF90 from the previous year. As Sutcliffe noted: “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.” Gallagher concurred: “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.”
Price, Rivals, and the Evolving Supercar Landscape
When a vehicle is laden with such advanced technology, there’s always a risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a sentiment we encountered with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could sometimes feel aloof and difficult to read. The 296 GTB, however, is a different proposition entirely. Its strong performance at the evo Car of the Year 2022 awards, where it achieved a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, underscores its organic feel. Its remarkable blend of prodigious power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect chord, effectively redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-plus price bracket can be. Whispers of a Versione Speciale variant, potentially with even more power and intensity, are circulating, but the hope remains that the standard 296’s uncanny natural feel will be preserved.
It is precisely this aspect – the nuanced driving experience and accessible performance – that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in its development of the hybrid Temerario. Over 900 horsepower is an almost obscene amount of power for a production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm if the rest of the vehicle isn’t meticulously engineered to manage it. Given Lamborghini’s masterful execution with the Revuelto, there is ample reason for optimism that the Temerario will deliver a truly compelling performance. If they succeed, we could be looking at an electrifying twin test of epic proportions, potentially featuring over 1700 horsepower of hybrid supercar rivalry.
Alternatively, we could expand this to a monumental 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S. It might seem almost quaintly underpowered in this company with ‘only’ 740bhp, but its comparatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight ensures a formidable power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and chassis deftness offer a compelling contrast to the comparatively more detached Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Key Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, V6, twin-turbocharged, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry)
Power-to-Weight Ratio: 566bhp/ton
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+ (as of 2025)
The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB represents a bold leap into the future of supercar performance. It masterfully blends electrifying power with an engaging and pure driving experience.
Ready to experience the cutting edge of hybrid supercar innovation firsthand? Discover the unparalleled performance and artistry of the Ferrari 296 GTB by contacting your local authorized Ferrari dealership today to schedule a private consultation and test drive.
The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB: A New Era of Hybrid Supercar Performance and Driving Purity
For over half a century, Ferrari has defined the mid-engined supercar archetype. The roar of a naturally aspirated V12, the precision of a gated shifter, the sheer, unadulterated drama – these were the hallmarks. Then came the 2022 unveiling of the Ferrari 296 GTB, a car that signaled not just an evolution, but a revolution. While it’s been a couple of years since its debut, the impact of this electrifying V6 hybrid supercar continues to resonate, especially as formidable rivals like the anticipated Lamborghini Temerario emerge. The 296 GTB isn’t just another Ferrari; it’s the vanguard of a new, hybrid-powered future for the Prancing Horse, and it’s a future that’s already challenging established norms and setting an exceptionally high bar for its competitors.
The transition from a beloved, award-winning twin-turbo V8 to a new twin-turbocharged V6, augmented by an electric motor, was a bold move. In a supercar segment that’s still in the nascent stages of embracing hybrid technology, the 296 GTB took the lead. Its debut placed it in direct competition with titans like the Lamborghini Huracán, celebrated for its naturally aspirated V10 symphony, and the potent McLaren 720S, a V8-powered benchmark of aerodynamic efficiency and power-to-weight ratio. While the McLaren 750S represents an evolution of that theme, the 903bhp, 10,000rpm hybrid V8 Temerario is clearly Lamborghini’s direct response to Maranello’s 819bhp hybrid Berlinetta.
The Ferrari 296 GTB, however, arrives packing truly staggering firepower. Its all-new, 120-degree, twin-turbo V6 engine, paired with an electric motor driving only the rear wheels (a distinction from the all-wheel-drive SF90), delivers a combined output of 819 horsepower. This configuration didn’t just push boundaries; it fundamentally redefined what a supercar could be. The 296 GTB is the first V6-powered Ferrari road car in history, predating even the iconic Dino 246 GT (which, it’s important to note, never officially wore the Prancing Horse badge during its production). It also marks the debut of Ferrari’s “hot-vee” turbocharger layout and, crucially, its plug-in hybrid capability, offering a respectable EV-only range of approximately 15 miles. This compact V6 unit is mounted low within a bespoke aluminum chassis, featuring a wheelbase reduced by 50mm compared to its V8 predecessors, with occupants positioned slightly further forward for an even more engaging driving posture.
The electric motor itself contributes a substantial 165bhp and 232 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 alone churns out an astonishing 654bhp and 546 lb-ft. Ferrari, in its characteristic style, refrains from quoting a combined peak torque figure, likely due to the complex interplay between the electric motor and the internal combustion engine. Nevertheless, it’s safe to assume this combined torque output is nothing short of immense. Overall, the V6 saves approximately 30kg compared to a Ferrari V8, and it’s mated to a lightning-fast eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The battery pack, a sleek, elongated structure, is discreetly housed behind the seats, ensuring optimal weight distribution and minimizing intrusion into the cabin.
No Ferrari would be complete without an arsenal of sophisticated electronic chassis control systems, and the 296 GTB is no exception. The engineers in Maranello have developed a revolutionary six-axis sensor, dubbed 6w-CDS, capable of precisely measuring acceleration and rotational velocity across the X, Y, and Z planes. This advanced sensor replaces traditional yaw sensors and, working in conjunction with a sensor on the steering rack, provides the car with an unprecedented understanding of driver inputs and real-time grip levels at the tire contact patches. This data is then fed to other systems, such as the renowned Side Slip Control and the active E-diff, to maximize cornering speeds while maintaining unwavering stability and driver confidence. A particularly exciting innovation is the new ABS-evo system, available in RACE mode and above. Leveraging the 296’s brake-by-wire technology, this system not only shortens braking distances but also enhances braking performance during trail braking maneuvers, allowing for more precise corner entry.
For the first time in its history, Ferrari is employing its active aerodynamics not solely to reduce drag, but to generate downforce. The company quotes a remarkable 360kg of downforce at 155mph, with a significant portion – up to 100kg – derived from the deployable rear wing integrated into the car’s tail. The thermal management system is equally impressive, featuring two radiators in the front for engine and gearbox cooling, supplemented by two condensers dedicated to battery cooling. Hot air is strategically expelled underneath the car to avoid disrupting the airflow directed towards the intercoolers along the flanks. The discreet apertures below the headlights are dedicated to cooling the front brakes, while a wing integrated into the roofline creates a ‘virtual’ rear screen, guiding airflow to the rear of the car as if it were flowing over a defined surface. The majority of the 296’s downforce is generated from beneath the car, where meticulous attention has been paid to channeling air, optimizing the rear diffuser, and carefully managing the underbody’s ground clearance to enhance the effectiveness of these downforce-generating surfaces.
The examples of the 296 GTB we sampled on the launch circuit were all equipped with the optional Assetto Fiorano package. This performance-oriented upgrade replaces the standard dampers with advanced Multimatic units, derived from Ferrari’s GT racing endeavors. It also adds further carbon fiber aerodynamic elements to the front, increasing front downforce by an additional 20kg. The cabin benefits from more carbon fiber, including the door panels, and additional exterior carbon components, contributing to a total weight saving of 12kg. This can be extended to 15kg if the optional Lexan rear engine cover is specified. Further enhancing the Assetto Fiorano experience, customers can opt for Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, a step up from the already capable standard Pilot Sport 4S. The Fiorano package also offers an exclusive exterior graphics package, inspired by the legendary 250LM of the 1960s, further cementing the car’s heritage-rich lineage. Visually, the 296 GTB is a striking departure from anything else on the road. It’s a sculpted masterpiece, a testament to modern automotive design that still manages to evoke a sense of timeless elegance, even without the more polarizing graphic options.
To initiate forward motion in the 296 GTB, a simple double-press of the lower button on the steering wheel boss is all that’s required, followed by selecting first gear. The car defaults to Hybrid mode, meaning it will depart silently on electric power alone, unless the driver explicitly selects otherwise via the intuitive haptic driver mode controls on the left side of the steering wheel boss. As long as throttle inputs are kept measured, and the battery has sufficient charge, the 296 will continue its journey on pure electric power. For those seeking an even more dedicated electric experience, a ‘Force EV’ mode can be selected, irrespective of other powertrain demands. Beyond that lie the Performance and Qualifying modes. In Performance mode, both the V6 engine and electric motor work in tandem, with a focus on maintaining battery charge. Qualifying mode, as the name suggests, unleashes the full, unadulterated performance potential, disregarding the battery’s state of charge.
The sheer tranquility of gliding through urban landscapes on electric power is an unexpected pleasure. Furthermore, the sophistication of the damping system ensures a surprisingly comfortable ride, allowing for effortless long-distance cruising. Even the luggage space in the front ‘frunk’ is surprisingly practical, a welcome improvement over the SF90. But let’s be honest, what truly ignites our curiosity is the sensation of unleashing both the V6 engine and the electric motor to their full potential. The immediate surge of power when planting the throttle at low revs in a high gear is astonishing. The 296 bolts forward with such immediacy, it momentarily makes you question the very necessity of gears – such is its raw potency. Yet, with eight gears at its disposal and an engine that readily spins to 8500rpm, the experience of truly winding out the 296 is nothing short of sensational. The acceleration figures speak volumes – a blistering 0-62mph time in the sub-3-second bracket and a top speed exceeding 200mph – resulting in a surge of acceleration that is both exhilarating and, at times, almost overwhelming, verging on the uncomfortable, yet paradoxically addictive. This is a car that delivers serious velocity, and it sounds magnificent doing so, with a captivating blend of turbocharger effects and the tuneful rasp of the V6.
The truly remarkable aspect of the 296 GTB is its chassis responsiveness. Ferrari’s assertion that the car was engineered for pure driving enjoyment is not hyperbole; it’s a tangible reality. The 296 feels incredibly agile without ever becoming nervous or unpredictable. The steering, as is typical of Ferrari, is light and exceptionally quick, but crucially, it’s also communicative, providing a genuine sense of connection to the road. While the grip levels are predictably immense, the car remains delightfully adjustable on the throttle, eliciting grins with every spirited corner exit. It feels significantly lighter than its stated dry weight of 1470kg would suggest. There’s a delightful lack of inertia throughout the entire vehicle, which encourages a more fluid, intuitive driving style, rewarding precise, small inputs and reveling in its accuracy. Engaging CT Off mode offers a tantalizing degree of freedom, with the reassurance that an incredibly sophisticated electronic guardian is still diligently overseeing proceedings. However, even with all electronic aids deactivated, the inherent balance of the 296 allows it to be coaxed into controlled oversteer in a manner one might not expect from a car producing 819bhp.
On a racetrack, the 296 GTB has the uncanny ability to make even the longest straights feel compressed. What becomes even more apparent is its surgical precision. The power is readily available to break rear-wheel traction at numerous points around the circuit, but the 296 is also exceptionally sensitive to braking and steering inputs. Drivers quickly learn that meticulous control translates into the greatest rewards. The turn-in accuracy and immediacy are phenomenal, dramatically shortening the entry phase of every corner. Instead of gradually loading the tires, the 296 settles into its line instantly, aided by the Multimatic dampers and the hyper-quick steering, which complements the enhanced roll support of the Assetto Fiorano setup beautifully. Even for those transitioning from more conventional sports cars, the sheer speed, precision, and agility of the 296 are nothing short of phenomenal, offering a joyous and rewarding experience lap after lap.
The interior architecture of the 296 GTB will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the SF90, as the 296 borrows heavily from its more potent sibling. However, the transition to a fully digital interface and its accompanying haptic switchgear, liberally applied across the steering wheel and traditional Ferrari pods, presents a learning curve. It’s undeniably complex, but then again, there’s a vast amount of information and functionality to manage. The most frustrating aspect can be the occasional need for a second press for simple operations that didn’t register the first time, or the uncertainty as to whether a command has actually been executed. Despite these minor usability quirks, the cabin undeniably exudes a sense of occasion and exclusivity.
evo Car of the Year 2022 Verdict: A Triumph of Hybrid Integration
The feedback from the evo Car of the Year 2022 awards provides compelling insight into the 296 GTB’s exceptional standing. As Peter Tomalin, ecoty 2022, eloquently put it: “Now it gets serious. When the scores were totted up, there wasn’t even the road tester’s legendary fag paper between the Artura and 296 GTB. The judges were perfectly split too: three of us narrowly preferred the Ferrari to the McLaren; three scored the Macca ahead by a whisker.”
The advocates for the Ferrari articulated profound admiration. Jethro, one of the judges, enthusiastically described it as: “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.”
Dickie’s verdict resonated deeply with many: “The first genuinely beautiful Ferrari since the F355.” He further elaborated on 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 Ferrari’s hybridisation was widely lauded for its seamless integration, a notable incident occurred where the battery depleted, leaving the car stranded. Ferrari had indeed provided guidance on preventing such occurrences, but it highlighted a potential vulnerability. As Gallagher observed: “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 for the 296, this occurred after all scoring was complete.
Despite some reservations regarding Ferrari’s signature super-quick steering and brake feel not matching the very best in the group, and the widely criticized complexity of the tech interface, the 296’s allure was undeniable. Vivian 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…”
In conclusion, the 2022 evo Car of the Year awards solidified the 296 GTB’s position as a triumphant return to form for Ferrari, especially when compared to the less impactful SF90 from the previous year. As Sutcliffe noted: “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.” Gallagher concurred: “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.”
Price, Rivals, and the Evolving Supercar Landscape
When a vehicle is laden with such advanced technology, there’s always a risk that it might become less than the sum of its parts. This was a sentiment we encountered with the SF90, which, while dazzling in its power, could sometimes feel aloof and difficult to read. The 296 GTB, however, is a different proposition entirely. Its strong performance at the evo Car of the Year 2022 awards, where it achieved a joint third place alongside the McLaren Artura, underscores its organic feel. Its remarkable blend of prodigious power and engaging dynamics strikes a perfect chord, effectively redefining what a supercar in the £250,000-plus price bracket can be. Whispers of a Versione Speciale variant, potentially with even more power and intensity, are circulating, but the hope remains that the standard 296’s uncanny natural feel will be preserved.
It is precisely this aspect – the nuanced driving experience and accessible performance – that we hope Lamborghini has prioritized in its development of the hybrid Temerario. Over 900 horsepower is an almost obscene amount of power for a production supercar, and it has the potential to overwhelm if the rest of the vehicle isn’t meticulously engineered to manage it. Given Lamborghini’s masterful execution with the Revuelto, there is ample reason for optimism that the Temerario will deliver a truly compelling performance. If they succeed, we could be looking at an electrifying twin test of epic proportions, potentially featuring over 1700 horsepower of hybrid supercar rivalry.
Alternatively, we could expand this to a monumental 2400bhp triple threat, including the McLaren 750S. It might seem almost quaintly underpowered in this company with ‘only’ 740bhp, but its comparatively svelte 1389kg kerb weight ensures a formidable power-to-weight ratio. The McLaren’s inherent rawness, ergonomic perfection, razor-sharp steering, and chassis deftness offer a compelling contrast to the comparatively more detached Ferrari.
Ferrari 296 GTB Key Specifications:
Engine: 2992cc, V6, twin-turbocharged, plus electric motor
Transmission: Eight-speed, dual-clutch, active E-diff
Combined Power: 819bhp @ 8000rpm
Torque: 546lb ft @ 6250rpm
Weight: 1470kg (dry)
Power-to-Weight Ratio: 566bhp/ton
0-62mph: 2.9 seconds
Top Speed: 205mph
Price: £250,000+ (as of 2025)
The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB represents a bold leap into the future of supercar performance. It masterfully blends electrifying power with an engaging and pure driving experience.
Ready to experience the cutting edge of hybrid supercar innovation firsthand? Discover the unparalleled performance and artistry of the Ferrari 296 GTB by contacting your local authorized Ferrari dealership today to schedule a private consultation and test drive.