Ferrari 296 GTB Review: Electrifying Performance Meets Modern Lifestyle

Ferrari 296 GTB Review: Electrifying Performance Meets Modern Lifestyle

Ferrari’s new plug-in V6 is every bit the sportscar you want it to be. And then some.

Rain or Shine? A Wet Launch of the Ferrari 296 GTB

Every time you hear “Ferrari launches happen in the rain?” you’re bought… but it’s a different kind of joke this time. Spain, usually a sunny‑sky paradise, decided to slip the 296 GTB into a storm that would make even the thunderbolt’s gotchas look like a soggy joke.

What Went Down

  • Location: SEVILLE, Spain – the city that’s as famous for flamenco as for traffic.
  • Weather: Torrential rain – yes, a full‑blown downpour.
  • The Star: Ferrari 296 GTB – the latest beast that looks like it was ripped straight out of the future, but keep reading.

Why the Rain was a “No‑No” for Car Showcases

Picture this: a shiny, newly minted Ferrari, unfolding its beauty in the crisp sun, feeling the wind under the hood, and inhaling the scent of fresh leather. Now swap that scene for a rain‑shower that could swallow a whole car. Not exactly a dream backdrop for a grand debut.

But the 296 GTB Still Got Some Down‑falls

Under that transparent engine cover and the cooling cheeks of the turbo heat shield, something truly powerful waits quietly: an 830‑horsepower monster that’s all forwarded to the rear wheels. Think a muscle car in a convertible, but what’s the point?

Well, selling a car is as much emotion as it is engine specs, and when the skies weep, that narrative might just glean a bit of sympathy from the crowd, making the 296 GTB the talk of the town in wet style.

Ferrari’s Bold Move: The 296 GTB Rolls In With a V6 and a Fresh Look!

Forget the F8 Tributo – Ferrari’s new favourite has a V6 engine, a first for the brand, and the company has already closed the book on fresh orders for that old mid‑engine classic. If you’re wondering what the fuss is all about, just read on.

A Clean Break From the Past

While the F8 Tributo still lives in the rear‑view mirror, the 296 GTB pulls a clean visual exit from its predecessor. It shares styling cues more akin to the SF90 than the F8 – think the iconic duck‑bill nose, sultry lights, and that unmistakable “wow” factor.

Front‑End Jazz

  • Low‑slung at the front, giving it a fierce stance.
  • Lines gently climb toward the back, creating a ripple effect.
  • Ends in a voluptuous tail that screams power without the bulk.

The result? A car that feels powerful and mass‑efficient all at once – a new chapter in Ferrari’s grand story. Who needs a predecessor when you can rewrite the playbook?

Retro vibes meet futuristic flair on the new Ferrari 296 GT

Ferrari’s latest gem doesn’t just look like a bullet; it whispers a nostalgic shout‑out to the legendary 250 LM.

Classic DNA in a modern package

Backed by history, the 250 LM’s iconic tube‑shaped air intakes, those tall rear screens, and unmistakable silhouettes have all migrated into the 296 GT’s design. If a 250 LM could be bought at auction, it would cost more than a brisk seven‑figure price tag.

Flavio Manzoni’s nostalgic touch

Not surprisingly, design chief Flavio Manzoni pulls a “nostalgia‑supply‑chain” straight from the 1960s. His latest models flaunt clean, streamlined lines—à la fashion, where the tie is as skinny as the contour.

Still a tech titan

While the 296 GT carries a punch of heritage, it also screams innovation. Bright intake vents near the headlights feed cool air directly to the front brakes—think of it as the car’s own hyper‑efficient cooling system.

So whether you’re a history buff or a tech aficionado, the 296 GT straddles classic and cutting‑edge, making it a bona‑fide legend for both passado and futuro.

Behind the Scenes of the Dynamic Wing System

The Car’s “Light Show”: The ride’s little spoiler is like an over‑eager kid who only unfurls its cape once the speed dial hits 250 km/h. When it finally pops open, it cranks on a solid 100 kg of downforce—think of it as a gentle, behind‑the‑art hug that keeps the car glued to the asphalt.

  • Speed‑triggered activation: Only kicks in when the car really revs.
  • Weight added: A hefty 100 kg of downward pressure.
  • Result: A smoother grip and killer stability.

A small, stealthy roof wing is the secret sauce, silently delivering about 10 % of that rear downforce on its own. Even though it’s not flashy, it plays a pivotal part in the car’s high‑speed theatrics.

Hybrid drive, digital cockpit

Ferrari’s Classic Quirk: Rear‑Wheel Drive & Mid‑Engine Magic

When you think of a Ferrari berlinetta or coupe, a few staples pop up instantly: rear‑wheel drive, a cozy two‑seat cabin, and that legendary mid‑engine layout. These are the goodies that make the brand sound like a reliable old friend.

Enzo’s One‑Time Contrarian

Our founder, Enzo Ferrari, once tossed out the concept of putting the engine behind the driver. He was convinced it made zero sense. But the more the engine sits behind, the more weight shifts onto the driven wheels, resulting in super‑tight traction when you launch out of a corner. That’s why we’re not messing around with front‑wheel design.

The 296 GTB Breaks The Script

Enter the 296 GTB, Ferrari’s latest track‑ready headline. It throws the whole right‑winged horse‑hair behind the most traditional setup—and instead of a pure speed demon, it highlights a new inspection point: emissions. The 296 writes a fresh line where the villain is the petrol’s puff‑poof, not the car’s pivot‑point.

  • Mid‑engine layout = extra grip
  • Rear‑wheel drive = pure Ferrari feel
  • 296 GTB = Emission‑centric story

Ferrari Unveils the 296 GTB: Power Meets Plausible City Parking

In a world that’s turning its back on gasoline, even the legendary name of motorsport has to reinvent itself or risk becoming a relic of the past. Ferrari’s latest masterpiece, the 296 GTB, is a bold leap into this new era.

Why It Matters

Think of it as the racecar that also doubles as a chill out drive for the city. Ferrari can’t just thank the wind— it has to feel the bass in its electric cuff.

Engine & Powertrain Breakdown

  • V6 Combustion Engine: The classic Ferrari soul, still firing away with the same roaring temperament.
  • Electric Motor: Adds 167 horsepower to give the car a turbo‑boost feel, and it’s perfectly balanced with the V6.
  • Battery: 7.45 kWh lithium‑ion pack— small enough to fit in the trunk but powerful enough to make you feel alive.
  • Charging: Plug it in at a standard wallbox charger. Forget charging stations— this beauty’s ready for any EV wall.

Parking with Confidence

Now the 296 GTB can effortlessly slot into an EV‑reserved spot without your swagger getting sidelined. In the past, Ferrari’s brash size has earned jeers, but this model invites you to a more comfortable, eco‑friendly showroom.

So whether you’re zipping past streetlights or simply enjoying a sunset drive, Ferrari’s new hybrid masterpiece shows that speed, style, and sustainability can sometimes share the same lanes—and their can be a slight sense of humor built in. Enjoy the ride, because this isn’t just a car; it’s an invitation to keep the joy of driving alive in a world that’s fast changing.

Ferrari’s New V6 Turns Heads While the Hybrid Follows On the Sidelines

Let’s set aside the plug‑in hybrid chatter for now—today’s headline is all about the combustion engine’s heroic performance.

Design that Keeps the Beast Grounded

Picture a V‑shaped engine spread wide at a 120‑degree angle. This broad stance squashes the centre of gravity, giving the car a rock‑solid pedestal. The twin turbochargers, one per cylinder bank, nest snugly inside the V‑hollow, making the whole unit v‑compact.

Dimensional Brilliance

  • 35 mm slimmer than its V8 predecessor.
  • 86 mm lower overall height.
  • 30 kg lighter—a welcome leaner muscle.

Performance that Tells the Story

Don’t let the smaller 1‑L drop fool you—this V6 is a true belter.

  • 663 hp (just 57 hp shy of the old V8’s roar).
  • It revs 8,500 rpm — that’s 500 rpm higher than the F8’s champ.
  • 740 Nm of peak torque—only 30 Nm below the old V8’s maximum.
How the V6 Plays Its Role

Think of it as the duo that needs a smooth mic‑managed conversation. Reach over to the steering wheel’s e‑manettino touch panel and whisper the commands—this is where the V6 dresses up its power for the driving story.

Unlocking the Beast: 830 Horsepower on Demand

Think of the car like a super‑charged athlete. If you want that 830‑hp sprint, you have to switch into the Qualifying mode. It’s the car’s way of saying, “Give me everything!” The battery goes into overdrive, pumping electrons like a power station, so the engine gets a full‑throttle boost. No other mode can keep the hornots at that level.

Performance Mode – The Everyday Powerhouse

Below the elite Qualifying, Performance mode keeps the engine running 24/7. The battery stays around 95 % charge, giving the motor a generous supply of energy. You’re looking at no less than 790 hp, so it’s still a serious torque machine but more practical for everyday cruising.

Quick Mode Breakdown

  • Qualifying Mode: 830 hp, battery on full blast.
  • Performance Mode: 790+ hp, battery at 95 %. Perfect for regular drives.

So whether you’re sprinting to the finish line or just living life on the edge, your car’s got modes to keep the thrill alive. Just slide the dial in, and let the electrons do their thing—because every good race deserves a little extra horsepower.

Keeping the 296 GTB Feeling Like a Ferrari – Even When It’s Plug‑in Hybrid

When you step on the pedal, most of the time you’ll land in Hybrid mode – think of it as a Ferrari playing second fiddle to a Prius. If you’re craving the pure‑green vibe, hop into eDrive and cruise silently for up to 25 km with zero exhaust fumes.

Electric‑Drive: Not Your Typical Ferrari Experience

Switching to electric in a Ferrari? It’s a whole different ballgame.

  • The high‑octane cockpit of the 296 GTB, complete with bucket seats, feels a bit out of touch with a silent, battery‑powered drive.
  • But hey, the driver’s area borrows heavily from the SF90 – another plug‑in playhorse – so maybe it’s more of a vibe swap than a clash.

Bottom line: the 296 GTB is a slick blend of pure performance and modern efficiency. Just don’t expect the same roar in eDrive; instead, enjoy the quiet, guilt‑free thrill while still keeping that iconic Ferrari swagger in the mix.

My Love‑Hate Relationship with the Digital Cockpit

Picture this: a steering wheel that practically gives you a high‑five whenever you tap a button, and two tiny panels on either side that control everything from the AC to the rear‑view camera. The little display in the middle of the dashboard is a vault of info. Sounds slick, right? But for me, it’s like trying to hula‑hop while wearing a bowl of rice.

Why the “Digital” Look is Irritating

  • Touch‑Sensitive Wheel – If I drag my finger too hard, the system thinks I’m screaming “help!”.
  • Side Panels – A tiny switch for the air‑conditioning, a mud‑slicker for the wing mirrors, a pop‑up for the reverse camera, a button that tells the car to lift the nose… My brain has to go from “usually, that’s just a button” to “does this thing really do anything?”.
  • Dashboard Display – Every single bit of data. If you blink, you miss a new headline, a speed overaster, or a mysterious blue‑tick that my GPS keeps inserting.

Honestly, this setup makes me feel a bit like a fossil. Every time I flip the dials, I think, “Do I accidentally turn the navigation off? Am I meddling with a depth‑charge?”

Trying to Feat the Cabin Air Recycling

I’ve tried sorting out the cabin air recycling feature, but the little pop‑ups are so cryptic I keep wondering if I just hit a secret level in a video game. After half an hour, I’m convinced the car thinks it’s a puzzle and that I’m not cheesy enough to solve it.

Bottom-line: the cockpit screams “cutting edge”, but it also screams “I’m too old for this gadgetry.” Still, I’ll keep rocking it, hoping there’s a secret “help my‑determinant” button somewhere I can just click and feel more in control. Until then, I’m stuck in a digital maze, watching numbers dance while the AC feels like it’s about to implode. Just humbly nodding the engine as it revs.

Revving Up a Ferrari Without the Hassle

Gone are the days of slamming a red button that looks like a slice of blood and watching the engine roar like a firework. Now you simply tap on a sleek haptic panel that wakes the car up, almost like a gentle nudge on a sleepy friend.

Why It’s a Private Experience

  • Instant Buzz: The panel’s subtle click feels more like a secret handshake than a noisy start.
  • Low‑Key Power: The only hint that the 296 GTB is alive is a faint whirr – like the sound of a quiet, high‑tech engine humming in the background.
  • Matte Mystery: Because DJ‑style loudness is replaced with a whisper, letting you feel the thrill without making everyone around you squeal.

Transmission That Talks the Talk

Ferrari’s new electronic gear selector brings a blast from the past – those iconic gear‑shift gates of yesteryear – but with a futuristic twist. It’s as if you’re talking to a smart companion who knows exactly when to shift.

All in all, the 296 GTB’s new startup feels like a quiet, powerful secret, and its gear shift is a nod to heritage with a digital upgrade. It’s premium, it’s precise, and it’s ready to turn heads without shouting about it.

Rolling Forward, Not Backward

There’s no way to turn the world into a reverse‑clock panorama, so I’m just going to ride the wave of digital life with my eyes wide open.

Ferrari? Noises? And a Silent Signal

Picture this: a Ferrari barreling past town roads, but—hold on—silently. It wasn’t a roar that sent the sound waves flying. It was almost a whisper, so quiet that Spanish villagers turned to each other and muttered, “What in the world is that?”

Things to Gawk at:

  • No engine rumble – just the sleek glide.
  • Windows glow – a ghostly shimmer that looked like it’d been painted from the inside.
  • Quiet streets – the kind of peace that makes your ears feel oddly sudden.

The whole scene felt like a mix of a dream and a sci‑fi teaser, which left everyone left and right puzzled. But honestly, if the world’s not turning around, adding a silent Ferrari to the mix is a pretty cool upgrade.

Driving the 296 GTB

A Crossover Between “Hardrock” and “Cuddle”

While you might think a brand‑new GTB feels like a flying spaceship, it’s a bit more “rough‑n‑tumble” than a Tesla’s ultraclean cabin. Even in eDrive, the 296 GTB’s windows let in a little wind‑and‑road soundtrack. But, guess what? You’re not actually blasting a weapon; the dashboard is surprisingly chill when you keep the engine idling.

Slow‑Mo Speed Thrills

The car’s acceleration is… let’s just say, “sincerely leisurely.” No feeling of an imminent rocket launch, no rattles that shout “look at me!” on every bend. Imagine driving in heavy traffic and casually sniffling your nose—no one will notice, because the car is pretty quiet.

Final Verdict

So if you’re looking for a supercoupe that’s calming but not sound‑proof, the 296 GTB’s comfy interior fits the bill. It can’t compete with a Tesla’s noise‑blockage, but it’s mild and mellow enough that you may not even realize you’re in the front seat of a sporty beast.

My Ferrari First Hour: A Wet Adventure

Picture this: I hop into a Ferrari and the first hour feels like a test of my white knuckles and the tightness of my seat. Turns out, the road ain’t exactly a dry runway.

The Scene

  • Narrow, greasy lanes that look like they’ve been dipped in oil.
  • Long stretches of motorway where rain pours down like a curtain.
  • Best defense? Wet mode—the car’s special setting for slippy streets.

Speed: A Double-Edged Sword

Even with Wet mode on, the beast was moody and eager, ready to sneak past 200 km/h with just a flick of the right pedal. That’s not a vibe you want when there’s a puddle eye‑catchingly waiting for you.

What This Means for Drivers

Fast cars in wet conditions = dangerous dance. If you stare at a puddle, the Ferrari’s next move could surprise you. Keep calm, keep traction, or else the road might just steal you away.

Ferrari: The Low‑Profile Supercar That Keeps Calm on the Road

Picture a Ferrari that stays cheerful and steady even as the speedometer climbs higher than a hot‑air balloon. It’s built to feel like a graceful glide, no matter how wild the numbers get.

  • Downforce of 340 kg at 250 km/h – that’s the equivalent of a firm hug from the road.
  • Ignores pitted tarmac and rough country roads, keeping the chassis level while wheels bounce more than a spring-loaded pogo stick.
  • Equipped with magnetic‑fluid dampers that adjust viscosity on the fly, giving it supreme comfort and responsiveness.

So, even when the wheels are doing their own dance, the body feels as if it’s on a smooth‑water craft. That’s the kind of thing that makes you feel like you’re steering a silent, noble beast that just knows how to stay in the groove, no matter what the road throws at it.

Mastering the Ferrari’s Nose – A Recipe for Taboo‑less Thrills

To get that visceral feeling you need to get your compass on the razor‑sharp swerve. The front of the Ferrari drops into corners as hungry as a hawk eyeing a field mouse. It’s a dance of precision, where every turn feels like a ballet move performed in 2000mph.

Speed, but not a reckless loose cannon

  • When the power pack roars, the chassis stays grounded – no wobble, no thump. The “wet to race” switch is like turning your head from a sleepy Sunday drive to a high‑octane chase.
  • Remember: even on a damp track, keep the accelerator in check. Slipping in is the same as driving a hoverboard on a mooring rope – you’ll love the attempt but it might not be the best move.

Tip: Treat the accelerator as a hostage

Don’t let the pedal dictate your path; give it the rights to the road. Test drive that sweet spot between the center and the rear‑end blister to get the smoothest ride possible.

Being a driver of a Ferrari is an art, not a hack – use the steering, respect the speed, and keep the engine in sync with the road. You’ll see that every twist and turn is a perfectly choreographed piece of dramatic racing.

Should you really spend $1.3m on a 296 GTB?

From Rain to Brilliance: Gliding in the 296 GTB

Picture this: the sky clears, the clouds cough up a sigh, and the rain just drops out of the picture. My fingers loosen from the steering wheel not just because the asphalt finally looks dry, but because the 296 GTB feels like a perfectly‑tuned glove on a grandpa’s hands. Even with all that raw power pumping through the rear tyres, this beast is surprisingly approachable.

The Bullish Rocket That Never Squeals

Let’s cut to the chase: the 296 GTB is a staggering fast car. From a standstill, it reaches 200 km/h in a brisk 7.3 seconds. But it doesn’t punch the accelerator like a nervous tennis racket. Instead, the hybrid drivetrain spoon‑feeds power in a steadied, almost jazz‑like flow as the revs climb. What starts as a passionate push for distance turns into a smooth, almost angry surge.

Soundtrack of Speed

And talk about soundtrack! The engineers bragged in the technical briefing about the voice we’ve given the new V6, and after hearing it, I get why they’re proud. Forget the F8 Tributo’s sharp rasp or screeching bark—this engine talks in a low‑bass, richly full tone that lifts into a sophisticated howl, kind of like a choir of tiny hairs on the roof of your throat. At the factory, they call it the “piccolo V12”, and honestly, that’s an apt nickname.

Why It’s the Best‑Sounding Ferrari

Aside from the 812 Superfast (which really does have a V12), the 296 GTB has now become the Ferrari that sounds best on the road. It’s smooth, powerful, and oddly comforting—like a newborn kitten patting your heart. Get ready to feel the roar that turns every drive into an instant therapy session.

Ferrari 296 GTB: A Wild Ride in a Skinny Car

It’s Not Just a Gifted Powerhouse

The 296 GTB packs a “little V12” that revs like a dream, while its ultra‑quick steering puts the driver in the cockpit. You’ll feel a cocktail of pure excitement—and, at times, thrill‑driven nerves—as you cruise down a single‑lane stretch.

Why It’s Guise Broader Than the Rest

  • It’s a wide model, check out how it looks—way wider than a Mercedes S‑Class.
  • The Ferrari F8 Tributo, previously the broadest champ, was supposedly even wider.

Handling That Feels Like a Lean Athlete

Despite the added plug‑in hardware (a battery pack adding 73 kg), the car stays remarkably light. The total weight is 1,470 kg—just 35 kg over the F8 Tributo. That’s a feather in a car that’s a beast.

Key Takeaways

  • Stretched chassis but still squeaky‑sneaky agile.
  • Power versus balance—treat it like a gymnast on a silk road.
  • Battery heavy? Not that heavy. 73 kg of tech, 1,470 kg total stays sharp.

Getting Inside the Ferrari’s Thrill‑Trail

Picture this: the engine roars, the seats tighten a bit, and suddenly you’re racing faster than your own heartbeat. The car propels you like a beast on a highway of paint, so fast that you almost feel like a passenger in a wild carnival ride. Then the brakes hit you with a titanic force that snaps the ride back to crystal‑clear control. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and command—if you stay alert and let the car show you the way.

Balancing Act: No Corner Whichever Way

While the front of the car pulses like a drumbeat, the rear holds its ground just as firm. The entire machine stays in equilibrium, keeping you from feeling like the vehicle is fighting you. Once you hit a few gnarly corners, you’ll start to trust the car’s intelligence as much as your own.

Why You’ll Wish You Were In the Driver’s Seat

If you’re ready to set aside a few tricks for everyday driving in pursuit of something that feels razor‑sharp, there’s the Assetto Fiorano edition waiting for you. It can’t claim any extra horsepower, but it punches up the sheer excitement with:

  • Higher Down‑Force – keeps you glued to the track.
  • Stickier Tires – adds a surprising amount of grip.
  • Lightweight Edge – up to 15 kg lighter for faster responses.
  • Lightning Stripes – guaranteed to shave a solid 0.5 seconds off lap times.

All that comes at a price of S$133,500 on top of the already beastly base model.

Spicing Up the Weekend

Leave the everyday road trips for another day. Dive into the daring world where every gear shift feels like a tender kiss with the steering wheel. The Ferrari invites you to own the rhythm—ready to change the tune of your senses?

Meet the New Ferrari 296 GTB: A Joy Ride for the Modern Driver

So, you’d think a Ferrari is all about speed, right? Guess again. The 296 GTB turns the classic formula on its head by pairing blistering acceleration with surprisingly smooth ride‑ability. It’s like a well‑trained dancer who knows when to dance and when to just glide.

Why This Model Stands Out

  • Lightning Fast – 830 horsepower is no joke. For anyone looking to feel the surge that makes your heart skip a beat, this beast delivers.
  • Balanced as a Zen Master – The car’s handling feels almost like a vacation. Even when you’re pre‑pushed through rush hour traffic on Shenton Way, it behaves like a calm surf rider, keeping you poised and collected.
  • Versatile Power – Whether cruising city streets or aiming for a lap record, the 296 GTB adapts without losing a beat. It’s a true all‑rounder.

The Weather Verdict

After a day of unpredictable weather (because, hey, that’s our life in the city), the 296 GTB proved itself in the great outdoors. The rain washed away any doubt, unveiling a car that’s ready for both the reigning champion of dry tracks and the adrenaline‑filled city streets.

What Makes This Addition a Must‑See

Ferrari decided to bring this masterpiece to the showroom floor for an authentic test drive experience. If you’re curious to feel the turbocharged hum in real life, the 296 GTB is not only inviting but dazzlingly entertaining. It’s proof that the brand’s heritage goes beyond flashy marketing – it’s about enjoying every heartbeat on the road.

Bottom Line

Whether it’s nuggets of sheer speed or balanced serenity that you’re after, the 296 GTB delivers a blend you won’t forget. Trust me – you won’t just drive it, you’ll live it.

Ferrari 296 GTB

Ferrari’s New Powerhouse: The Plug‑in Hybrid Masterpiece

What’s It All About?

Imagine a beast that’s got the raw power of a Ferrari but also the green conscience of a hybrid. That’s the Plug‑in Hybrid Petrol‑Electric we’re talking about.

  • Drivetrain: Plug‑in hybrid petrol‑electric
  • Engine: 2,992 cc V6, turbo‑charged
  • Power: 663 hp @ 8,000 rpm
  • Torque: 740 Nm @ 6,250 rpm
  • Gearbox: 8‑speed automatic
  • Electric Motor: 167 hp, 315 Nm
  • Battery: Lithium‑ion, 7.45 kWh
  • Charging: 1.5 hrs @ 11.4 kW AC
  • Electric Range: 25 km
  • System Power: 830 hp, 900 Nm
  • Top Speed: >330 km/h
  • 0‑100 km/h: 2.9 s
  • Fuel Efficiency: TBA
  • Cost Without COE: $1,240,000
  • Agent: Ital Auto Pte Ltd
  • Availability: Now

Why This Matters

It’s not just about speed; it’s about double‑the thrill, double‑the efficiency. The electric return power keeps the “green” pedal pressed, meaning you can feel clean‑cooking even while sending the gears to the floor.

Who Can Get It?

Dealer: Ital Auto Pte Ltd. Cars enthusiasts should call up quick – the stock is sizzling best‑seller.

Place for More

Originally published by CarBuyer, the page was quickly reshared on CarsSports and CarFerrari forums. Keep an eye out for updates and join the conversation!