The 2022 296 GTB stirs the automotive world up, becoming the first-ever V6-powered car with a Ferrari badge.
Regardless of being two cylinders short of the minimum we normally expect from a Ferrari, the 296 GTB truly does justice to the Italian manufacturer’s reputation. Indeed, it packs a 3.0 liter twin-turbo V6 paired with a plug-in-hybrid system producing a whopping 818 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque delivered to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Such a setup translates to a 0-60 mph time in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 205mph—not bad for a V6, right?
But what’s especially intriguing about the 296 GTB is that it comes with a completely new 120° V6 engine. The twin-turbocharged engine bears no relation to any other unit currently used by Ferrari, but we’ll probably see more of its derivatives soon, potentially on the upcoming Purosangue SUV.
The electric motor is powered by a 7.45-kWh battery, and the 296 GTB can also operate in electric-only mode for up to 16 miles and reach up to 84 miles per hour. Ferrari also offers four distinct driving modes, eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify, each catering to a specific driving style.
Worth mentioning, the 296 GTB’s design bears more than just aesthetic value. Designers and engineers at Ferrari worked around the clock to create an aerodynamic design maximizing stability and downforce at high speed. In fact, the rear spoiler cleverly directs airflow to generate over 700 lbs of downforce at 155 miles per hour. Moreover, despite the addition of a hybrid system, the car only weighs 3200 lb, giving it an excellent power to weight ratio.
To make sure the interior is as impressive as the exterior, Ferrari has also incorporated all the latest technology into the 296 GTB. Gone are the days of analog systems in sportscars as the GTB now features a digital interface and even a sleek digital display on the passenger side. As usual, the steering wheel sports a bold Ferrari logo, multiple buttons, and the ‘eManettino’ switch serving a host of functionalities.
Even though the car’s audio system is a feast to the driver’s ears, the roaring V6 is what really does the talking. And despite its smaller size, Ferrari claims that the V6 emits similar high-frequency notes as a naturally-aspirated V12 found in its line-topping GT models.
Other features include a push-button shifter inspired by the gated shifter’s design and a compartment for storing the ignition key. And of course, despite being a thoroughbred sports car, Ferrari 296 GTB doesn’t fall short on comfort. It comes with tight-hugging sports seats covered in premium quality Italian leather, as one can expect from a luxury carmaker such as Ferrari.
Deliveries of the 2022 296 GTB are expected to start in Europe by early 2022 with prices starting from €269,000.
Ferrari 296 GTB
Ferrari 296 GTB Assetto Fiorano
