After much anticipation, Ferrari has unveiled their newest entry-level supercar intended to be a "triumph of modernity."
This latest Ferrari model is called the 296 GTB and will take its place as the latest mid-engined Ferrari to replace the F8 Tributo, a revision of the 488.
Let's take a closer look at the 2022 Ferrari 296 GTB and what should make this a special ride.
Specifications Of The Ferrari 296 GTB
The 296 GTB breaks from tradition. While the V8 has been common in previous mid-engined Ferraris, this supercar comes with an F1-inspired Turbo V6 Hybrid engine that produces 872 HP and 546 lb/ft of torque. These are incredible numbers, especially when you consider that this V6 offers 100 HP more than the outgoing F8 Tributo. Also, the critically acclaimed 458 only had 570 HP at launch in 2010.
This ride accelerates to 60 MPH in 2.9 seconds and will top out at 205 MPH. Its engine, as is to be expected with the Italian manufacturer, will send the power to the rear wheels. As you can tell, much of the long-standing formula remains the same.
But with this downsizing may come a decrease in theater, but as the Jaguar F-type proved, a V6 engine can be plenty of fun. Weighing in 77 lbs heavier than the F8 Tributo doesn't sound promising, but with this large increase in power, it shouldn't be noticeable.
The B in GTB stands for Berlinetta (Italian for little saloon). The 296 GTB doesn't have much in common with the majority of saloons, however, launching at €269,000 (about $320,800) in Europe. It will compete with the Lamborghini Huracan, Porsche 911 GT3, and McLaren 620R, all of which are excellent rides.
Although it commands a price premium greater than the McLaren Artura, it is the closest competition as an entry-level hybrid supercar. The Artura share the same top speed but is considerably down on power; when both come to market, it will be interesting to see which gains more attention in the press and among buyers.
The Interior Of The Ferrari 296 GTB
Ferrari's latest cars all benefit from coming with the next gen of high-tech interiors. The 296 GTB also takes its design cues from the range-topping SF90 Stradale. It lacks a central display, unlike the Roma, the company's latest grand tourer. Ferrari has drawn inspiration from Audi's virtual cockpit too.
The manettino switch remains on the steering wheel to give the driver maximum control without having to take their hands away from the wheel. All controls for driver comforts such as air conditioning and infotainment are close to the wheel as well.
With a highly angular design, Ferrari is looking to the future, but just as they have made some styling features look to the past on the outside, they have made a few on the inside. Notably, the shifter has been covered in aluminum, an ode to the gated shifters of the past that were lost to dual-clutch transmissions.
All these driver-focused features don't mean that the passenger has been neglected; above the glove box returns the letterbox display that grants control over features such as music and navigation. This display has also come with the capacity to show information from the instrument cluster in previous iterations. Ferrari has said that this display will enable the passenger to act as a "co-driver."
The Rise And Fall And Rise Of The GTB Name
The GTB name has a long history within Ferrari. The 275 GTB acted as the successor to the 250 GTO and stands out from other GTBs as a grand tourer with a front-engined V12. Throughout the brand's history, the abbreviation has returned with models like the 365 GTB and into the '80s with the 308 GTB Turbo, and the 328 GTB.
The 348 was revised as the 348 GTB in 1993; this particular generation is often overshadowed by the spectacular F355. Heading into the 2000s, the GTB name disappeared somewhat, appearing on a special version of the 488 and 599.
Design And Final Thoughts On The Ferrari 296 GTB
Ferrari hasn't forgotten about the historic design of previous GTB models. There is only so much variation that can be done when designing a mid-engined supercar, but the side air intake has clear inspiration from the F355, albeit now placed above the wheel.
The iconic stubby nose side profile remains the same as introduced with the 308. But this does not mean this is a nostalgic or retro-inspired design.
From the front, the car is clearly designed with aerodynamics in mind. This was an issue when it came to the F8 Tributo, which shares some design motifs with the C8 Corvette. Ferrari continues the evolution of its design at the rear also. When they introduced the Roma, it was clear that the iconic four-light rear cluster was being slowly phased-out.
This remains true for the 296 GTB, and the four-light design has become what can best be described as notches in a rear light bar. Beneath this sits one large exhaust.
Having one exit is one way that Ferrari has been able to engineer its way around current regulations to maintain the theatrical presence their vehicles are known for. With a 50mm shorter wheelbase than the outgoing car, it is hoped that what Ferrari may have lost when downsizing the engine, they will make up for in improved handling dynamics and usability.