Ferrari 296 GTB

The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB features a groundbreaking plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, a first for a Ferrari road car in this segment. At its heart is a new 2.9-litre (2992 cc) twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which alone produces an impressive 654 bhp. This V6 is paired with an electric motor, contributing an additional 165 bhp. The combined system output is a staggering 818 bhp (830 PS) and 740 Nm of torque. This immense power is channeled through an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) to the rear wheels.

The 296 GTB delivers truly electrifying performance, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 kmph in a blistering 2.9 seconds. It can reach 200 kmph in just 7.3 seconds, and its top speed is an impressive 330 kmph. Beyond raw numbers, the hybrid system provides instant torque fill, eliminating any turbo lag and ensuring immediate throttle response. The electric motor also allows for a limited electric-only range of approximately 25 km, enabling silent, emission-free urban driving. The V6 engine produces a unique and captivating soundtrack, reminiscent of classic Ferrari V12s, especially at higher revs. Fuel efficiency is rated at approximately 15.62 kmpl (ARAI combined), remarkable for a car of this performance caliber, thanks to its hybrid nature.

Ride and Handling

The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB is engineered to deliver an unparalleled ride and handling experience, blending track-focused agility with surprising road usability. It features a sophisticated suspension system, often with adaptive dampers, that allows for precise control over body movements and ride comfort. The car's low center of gravity, combined with its compact wheelbase, contributes to exceptional agility and responsiveness.

The electric power steering is incredibly direct and communicative, providing the driver with precise feedback from the road. The advanced electronic systems, including Ferrari's Side Slip Control (SSC) and Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE), work in harmony to optimize grip and handling, allowing drivers to confidently explore the car's limits. The active rear spoiler and sophisticated aerodynamics generate significant downforce, ensuring stability at high speeds. The Manettino dial on the steering wheel offers various driving modes (e.g., eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, Qualify), allowing drivers to tailor the powertrain and chassis settings to their preferences, from a relatively compliant ride for daily driving to a razor-sharp setup for track use.

The interior of the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB is a meticulously crafted, driver-focused cockpit that seamlessly integrates advanced technology with luxurious materials. The design is minimalist and modern, with most controls integrated into digital displays, creating a clean and uncluttered environment. Premium materials such as fine leather, Alcantara, and extensive carbon fiber accents are used throughout the cabin, exuding an air of high performance and luxury.

The centerpiece is the fully digital instrument cluster, which doubles as the primary infotainment screen, providing a customizable array of driving information and vehicle controls. The steering wheel, inspired by Formula 1, features touch-sensitive controls and the iconic Manettino dial for selecting driving modes. The seating position is low and purposeful, with comfortable yet supportive racing seats that provide excellent lateral support during spirited driving. While it is a two-seater, the cabin offers ample space for its occupants, focusing on an immersive driving experience. Boot space is a modest 198 litres, typical for a mid-engined supercar, suitable for a few soft bags.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB is integrated into the 16-inch digital instrument cluster, which serves as the primary display for all vehicle functions and information. This driver-centric approach ensures that all vital data and controls are directly in the driver's line of sight. The system is intuitive, with sharp graphics and a responsive interface.

It supports Apple CarPlay as standard, and Android Auto is available, allowing for seamless smartphone integration. While there isn't a large central touchscreen in the traditional sense, the digital instrument cluster offers comprehensive navigation, media playback, and vehicle settings. Many controls are operated via touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel, requiring a slight learning curve but ultimately providing quick access to functions without taking hands off the wheel. The focus is on a pure driving experience, with technology serving to enhance rather than distract.

The exterior design of the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB is a harmonious blend of aerodynamic efficiency and stunning Italian artistry. Its compact, low-slung silhouette is a fresh take on Ferrari's mid-engined berlinetta tradition, characterized by clean lines and sculpted surfaces. The front fascia features sleek, sharp LED headlights and distinctive air intakes that contribute to its aggressive yet elegant appearance.

A key design element is the "aero bridge" that spans the rear flanks, channeling air over the rear deck for improved downforce without resorting to a large fixed wing. The rear is particularly striking, with a single, centrally mounted exhaust pipe and an active rear spoiler that deploys to generate additional downforce at high speeds. The overall design emphasizes purity and functionality, with every curve and vent serving an aerodynamic purpose. The 296 GTB typically rides on 20-inch alloy wheels, often complemented by carbon ceramic braking systems. Dimensions are approximately 4546 mm in length, 1958 mm in width, and 1187 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2450 mm.

While Ferrari vehicles typically do not undergo independent crash testing by organizations like Euro NCAP or IIHS, the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB is engineered with the highest standards of safety and structural integrity. Its advanced chassis, constructed from lightweight materials, is designed to provide exceptional occupant protection in the event of a collision.

The 296 GTB is equipped with multiple airbags, including front, side, and knee airbags, to enhance passive safety. Active safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), and Hill Start Assist. For enhanced driver awareness and accident prevention, the 296 GTB also incorporates Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. Parking sensors (front and rear) and a reverse camera with guidelines further aid in maneuvering this high-performance machine.

The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB operates in the elite segment of high-performance hybrid supercars in India, facing off against a very exclusive group of rivals.

Its primary competitors include the McLaren 750S and the Lamborghini Temerario. The McLaren 750S offers a similarly focused, lightweight, and powerful driving experience. The Lamborghini Temerario, as a new hybrid supercar, directly competes in the electrified performance segment. The 296 GTB differentiates itself with its unique V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain, its distinctively elegant Italian design, and Ferrari's unparalleled brand heritage.

Other formidable rivals include the McLaren 720S and high-end variants of the Porsche 911. The 296 GTB's blend of groundbreaking hybrid technology, stunning aesthetics, and exhilarating dynamics positions it as a highly desirable and forward-thinking choice for discerning supercar enthusiasts in the Indian market.

The 2025 Ferrari 296 GTB is a revolutionary and deeply impressive supercar that successfully ushers Ferrari into a new era of electrification without sacrificing any of the brand's legendary passion and performance. Its potent V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers astonishing power and instant torque, offering both blistering acceleration and a surprising degree of everyday usability with its electric-only mode. The design is a triumph of elegance and aerodynamic efficiency, while the driver-focused interior is a masterclass in modern Ferrari craftsmanship.

While its price point is in the ultra-luxury segment and practicality is limited to two occupants, the 296 GTB justifies its cost with its cutting-edge technology, razor-sharp dynamics, and the sheer exhilaration it provides. It's a car that offers a glimpse into the future of high-performance motoring, proving that electrification can enhance, rather than diminish, the supercar experience. For enthusiasts in India seeking a truly innovative, incredibly fast, and emotionally engaging Ferrari, the 296 GTB is an outstanding and highly recommended choice.