Ferrari 296 GTB: Brand’s First Rear-Wheel PHEV Road Car To Feature A V6 Engine!

Ferrari has recently unveiled their latest mid-rear-engined two-seater Berlinetta, the 296 GTB, across its social platforms. The PHEV features an extensive list of features that revolve around comfort and performance for everyday driving journeys. 

The car derives its name from the total displacement (2992 l) and the number of cylinders chosen along with the GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) acronym.

A first was introduced to Ferrari’s road cars - an all-new engine featuring the brand’s 120° twin-turbo V6 engine, which produces 654 hp, along with an electric motor capable of delivering an additional 164 hp. Fitted is the same eight-speed wet-dual clutch fitted in the SF90 Stradale, Ferrari Roma, Portofino M and the SF90 Spider. 

This engine combination results in a power delivery of 818 hp at 8,000 rpm and 740 Nm at 6,250 rpm. A total of 2.9 seconds needed to complete a century sprint, with a maximum speed of more than 330 km/h.

Additionally, the MGU-K (Motor Generator Unit, Kinetic) increases the torque to 315 Nm thanks to its dual-rotor single-stator axial flux motor. Located between the engine and gearbox is a TMA (Transition Manager Actuator), which essentially acts as a clutch.

Speaking of V6 engines, the first-ever version featured a 65° architecture. It debuted on the 1957 1500 cc Dino 156 F2 single-seater, followed by bigger displacement versions in 1958 on front-engined prototypes and F1 cars such as the 196 S, 296 S and the title-winning 246 F1. 

The Berlinetta’s PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) allows 25 kilometres using the all-electric drive mode. In addition, the 7.43 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery comprises four fewer cells than the battery on the SF90. 

Measuring at 4,565 mm long, 1,958 mm wide and 1,187 mm tall, with a wheelbase spanning 2,600 mm, the 296 GTB features a compact body frame with a modern look. Inspired by the 1963’s 250 M, it combines ideas and details of the past and present - muscular wings, visor-style windscreen, and a new vertical screen are just elements that make the centrepiece embody sleekness.

Riding on all-new 20-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, a five-spoke forged diamond-cut finish unit is also available as an option. Another carbon-fibre wheel option is also available, which weighs eight kilograms lighter. 

Inspired by the J50 as well as the one-off P80/C, the visor-style windscreen is seen wrapping around the side windows. Similarly, the configuration of the wings and buttresses allows the exterior and interior of the vehicle to merge seamlessly.

Interior-wise, the 296 GTB is fitted with a fully digital interface, with no central screen for the infotainment system. Instead, like the SF90 Stradale, the digital instrument cluster becomes the centrepiece, complemented by individual capacitive touch buttons, two side satellites and air-conditioning vents. 

For customers interested in taking their vehicle up a notch, the Assetto Fiorano package is available: it includes special GT racing-derived adjustable Multimatic shock absorbers, Michelin Sport Cup2R tyres, special livery, high downforce carbon-fibre appendages, a Lexan® rear screen as well as extensive use of lightweight materials for both exterior and interior. 

Reportedly, the Ferrari 296 GTB will be sold starting from 269,000 euro (RM1.33 million) and 302,000 euros (RM1.49 million) for the Assetto Fiorano package. Deliveries expected to begin in the first quarter of 2022.