Many moons ago, hybrid cars were all about efficiency, not necessarily smiles per mile. Times are changing, fast. Ferrari fast. Try keeping up with the hybrid 2022 Ferrari 296 GTB, the very evolution of racing heritage refined into a production hybrid sports car. Good luck.
This mid-rear-engine two-seater combines a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine with a plug-in electric motor (PHEV) to create 830 cv. That translates to approximately 818 horsepower. This is a hybrid Prancing Horse indeed.
The combustible part of the equation is a 120° 6-cylinder twin-turbo engine, a first for the legendary Italian automaker. This unique engineering design allows the turbochargers to actually fit inside the V part of the engine design. As a result, Ferrari’s 120° V6 design maximizes the use of space while simultaneously lowering the engine’s center of gravity. This is an engineering win-win.
Just the turbo V6 engine of the 296 GTB creates 663 cv of power, or about 653 hp, by itself. That’s a staggering 221 hp per liter of engine displacement, a new world record for production car output.
As for the electric part of the formula, Ferrari uses a 165 hp electric motor to round out the hybrid experience. Considering there was a time when cars did not even have 165 hp, this is an impressive electric motor.
Yet, what truly defines a Ferrari is the driving experience combined with stylish swag. The 2022 Ferrari 296 GTB offers the kind of driving thrills you expect from a sports car wearing the Prancing Horse badge. It definitely brings the designer Italian bodywork along for the ride as well.
In fact, this is Ferrari’s first V6 car to ever wear the Prancing Horse badge. That is kind of a big deal. Unlike many modern hybrid and even fully electric sports coupes, the 296 GTB does not feature all-wheel drive. This is a pure rear-wheel drive experience.
That is one of the reasons why the new Ferrari hybrid is so much fun to drive. The 296 GTB puts you behind the wheel of an authentic rear-wheel drive hybrid with jaw-dropping power. It is the perfect blend of nostalgic driving where the rear end can kick out a bit if you want it to, along with everything comfortable about modern amenities and features.
With the capability of revving up to 8,500 rpm, you will have plenty of chances to hear the finely-tuned scream of this twin-turbo V6 engine. It sounds incredible, almost like an F1 engine combined with the whir of a jet turbine on the side. You really have to hear it to believe it.
Ferrari is on pace for deliveries in 2022. Chances are if you are not driving the 296 GTB, it is going to be difficult to get close enough for a better look. You might as well stay ahead of the pack by being behind the wheel.
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