Ferrari introduces a new hybrid supercar, the 296 GTB with a V6 engine

The first Ferrari to be powered by a V6 engine was a plug-in hybrid. The 296 GTB, that’s its name, is an 830-horsepower supercar. It joins the SF90 Stradale, equipped with a V8 engine, among Ferrari’s hybrids.

We can’t stop Ferrari, which, like many other luxury manufacturers, is increasing the number of models and variations on their range. The latest addition to the Maranello workshop is called the 296 GTB, referring to its displacement (2992 cc) and number of cylinders (6), followed by the historical abbreviation. Gran Turismo Berlinetta. So it’s a Ferrari with a V6 engine. Firstly if we put aside the products that were produced under the Dino brand.

Compared to Ferrari’s latest production, the 296 GTB has a fairly sober body. However, the brand’s designers have incorporated many details inspired by previous Maranello models. There are inspirations and nods to the 250 LM, especially in the rear, or even the much newer J50.

Despite its smooth lines, the 296 GTB still develops up to 360 kg of aerodynamic downforce at 250 km/h, thanks to the active aerodynamic systems, with the optional Assetto Fiorano package (without 350 kg). It also causes the car to lose 15 kg thanks to the extensive use of lightweight materials and includes adjustable shocks and Michelin Sport Cup 2 R semi-slippery tyres.

Unfathomable Compact Hybrid Mechanism

In the center rear position we find a twin-turbo V6 capable of 8500 rpm. When opened at 120 degrees, it integrates its turbo into its V, for the first time in a Ferrari, as Mercedes-AMG does for example in its V8s. The V6 alone generates 663 hp, or 221 hp/liter of displacement, which is a record for a production car.

However, it appears that Ferrari considered this power insufficient, as the brand’s engineers resorted to hybridization. Thus, the electric motor adds up to 122 kW (167 hp) and a torque of 315 Nm. It alone propels the 296 GTB engine up to 135 km/h and gives it an electric range of 25 km, thanks to a 7.45 kWh battery built into the floor.

Unlike its V8-engined big sister, the SF90 Stradale, which carries two additional electric motors on its front axle, the 296 GTB is hard-wheel drive. So all its power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

The maximum cumulative power reaches 830 hp, for a maximum torque of 740 Nm. Thus, the 296 GTB is placed in the range between the 720 hp of the F8 Tributo (a twin-turbo V8) and the 1,000 hp of the SF90 Stradale (the V8 twin-turbo with rechargeable hybrid). The 296 GTB is also intended to complement the range, and therefore does not replace the F8 Tributo, which was only introduced in 2019. On the competition side, the McLaren Artura, just introduced, uses a plug-in hybrid engine. With twin turbo V6. However, it advertises “only” 680 hp of maximum cumulative power.

McLaren Artura, a luxury hybrid supercar

On the scale, the 296 GTB offers a dry mass of 1,470 kg with the optional Assetto Fiorano package (without 1,485 kg). In addition to the traditional Manettino, which allows you to select your own driving mode, the eManettino allows you to adjust the plug-in hybrid drive. eDrive mode allows you to drive on electric on your own, Hybrid mode is the default driving mode, automatic control of the two powers, Performance mode keeps the petrol engine running constantly, and Qualification mode allows maximum fuel usage. Electric assist, necessarily over a shorter period.

The performances announced are clearly breathtaking, with a top speed of more than 330 km/h, a shot from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, or a time of 1 minute 21 seconds on the Fiorano circuit, which is a mandatory pass. For all new cars. Ferraris. That’s 1.5 seconds shorter than the F8 Tributo and 2 seconds longer than the SF90 Stradale.

clean interior

If we can’t really talk about the revolution since the 458 Italia, Ferrari has changed the interior of its supercars, particularly with the arrival of the SF90 Stradale. Like the latter, the 296 GTB has “digital” hardware and capacitive controls. A head-up display is also available, as is now the case with the traditional passenger display.