Ferrari 296 GTB

Ferrari’s decision to move to a V6 layout has resulted in one of the most engaging powertrains the brand has ever created. The Ferrari 296 GTB delivers an experience that feels lighter, more agile and more responsive than many of its V8 predecessors.

City Driving Experience

For city driving scenarios, the 296 GTB is surprisingly easy to control. The plug-in hybrid system allows limited pure-electric driving, making low-speed manoeuvring smoother and quieter. Moreover, the throttle response is immediate but progressive, and the dual-clutch gearbox shifts cleanly without jerks. The ride quality, while firm, is well controlled, especially with the adaptive suspension in its softer setting. For a car with this level of performance, the 296 GTB feels remarkably manageable in city traffic.

Highway Driving Experience

Open stretches of roads is where the 296 GTB feels its true self. The acceleration is ferocious, with 0-100 km/h dispatched in just 2.9 seconds. The electric motor fills torque gaps instantly, making overtakes effortless. As expected, the high-speed stability is exceptional, and the car feels planted even at triple-digit speeds.

The steering is telepathic, the chassis balance is near-perfect and the braking performance inspires absolute confidence. That is something we have experienced for decades with the Ferrari engineering. Despite its extreme capability, the 296 GTB never feels intimidating, which is a rare trait in this segment.

The Ferrari 296 GTB is offered in a single, fully-loaded trim. The buyers can actually give a distinct character to their model, with Ferrari’s extensive personalisation program. To achieve this, the customers can choose from a wide range of exterior colours, carbon-fibre packages, wheel designs, brake calliper finishes and interior trims. The optional Assetto Fiorano package adds lightweight components, enhanced aerodynamics and track-focused suspension tuning for those who want a sharper edge.

For most Indian buyers, the standard 296 GTB configuration offers the ideal balance between performance and usability. Assetto Fiorano is best suited for owners who plan to explore the car’s limits on track days or closed circuits.  

One just can’t talk about a Ferrari without mentioning some performance statistics. Some of the main highlights include:

• 0-100 km/h: 2.9 seconds
• 0-200 km/h: 7.3 seconds
• Top speed: Over 330 km/h

What stands out in real-world Indian conditions is how accessible this performance feels. The hybrid assistance smoothens power delivery, making the car easier to control even when driven hard. Unlike older supercars that demand constant attention, the 296 GTB rewards precision without punishing minor mistakes.

On highways, the car feels effortlessly fast, while on twisty roads it showcases remarkable agility. This balance makes the 296 GTB not just a numbers-driven supercar but one that delivers genuine driving satisfaction.

The design engineers at Ferrari prioritize aerodynamic efficiency over everything else. That is why Ferraris are some of the most distinct looking vehicles in the world. The Ferrari 296 GTB introduces a clean, modern design language inspired by classic mid-engine Ferraris. The short overhangs, compact proportions and sculpted surfaces give it an athletic stance.

At the front, the minimalistic fascia features slim LED headlamps and a clean nose devoid of aggressive vents. The side profile highlights the compact wheelbase and muscular rear haunches, while the rear features an integrated active spoiler that deploys automatically for added downforce.

Aerodynamics play a central role in the design, but Ferrari has ensured that function never overshadows elegance. The result is a supercar that looks contemporary yet timeless, appealing to buyers who value sophistication over visual excess.

All modern cars need to come equipped with the latest tech and convenience amenities to grab the attention of the buyers. However, the 296 GTB combines the modern elements with the iconic design we have all come to appreciate from the past.

Seating & Space

The 296 GTB is a strict two-seater sports car. The seats are deeply bolstered, offering excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable enough for longer journeys. The driving position is low and immersive, placing the driver at the centre of the experience.

Practicality & Storage

Despite being a supercar, the 296 GTB offers usable storage capacity of around 200 litres. This ensures that the two passengers can take some amount of luggage for their weekend journeys.

Technology & Features

The cabin of the Ferrari 296 GTB embodies premium materials and latest tech functionalities. These include 16-inch curved digital instrument cluster HUD (Head-Up Display) with hybrid-specific readouts, Touch-sensitive haptic buttons on the steering wheel, an e-Manettino switch with eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify modes, Premium leather and Alcantara cabin with carbon fibre inserts, Dual-zone climate control, Full LED lighting with DRLs, Keyless entry and go, Rear parking camera with sensors, an adjustable rear spoiler for active aerodynamics, connected car functions, adaptive suspension controls and Ferrari’s latest driving aids.  

Furthermore, the Ferrari 296 GTB comes with loads of active and passive safety amenities. Some of the major highlights are: 6 airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer 2.0, E-Diff and F1-Trac, High-voltage battery safety isolation, Torque vectoring through electric motor, Ferrari Side Slip Control. These systems operate seamlessly in the background, enhancing confidence without dulling the driving experience.

In India, the Ferrari 296 GTB competes with:

• McLaren 750S - The British performance vehicle is well known for its attractive styling and monstrous performance.

• Lamborghini Huracán Tecnica - Traditionally, the prime rival of Ferrari cars have been Lamborghini models and the Huracán Tecnica carries on that rivalry into the modern era.

• Porsche 911 Turbo S - It is not possible to talk about performance sports cars without mentioning a Porsche car. The 911 Turbo S is certainly a legendary moniker in the world of sports cars.

Among these, the 296 GTB stands out for its hybrid performance, compact dimensions and balanced usability.  

All vehicles have their distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here are a few traits of the 296 GTB.

The Ferrari 296 GTB can prove to be an ideal product for those who value the rich heritage associated with the brand, while establishing a strong presence with modern amenities. It combines electrification with pure Ferrari character, delivering a supercar that is thrilling, usable and technologically groundbreaking. If you want a Ferrari that represents the brand’s next chapter, the 296 GTB is one of the finest choices available in India today.