Ferrari: The Next Chapter

Ballistic new 296 gtb marks a return of the v6, powering this hybrid coupe to a bold new future

- Chris Thompson

FERRARI HAS ITS FOOT firmly on the throttle as it pushes further into a future demanding both lower emissions and higher performance.

The 296 GTB is Maranello’s first return to a six-cylinder engine since the Dino 246 GT was launched back in 1974, but the addition of hybridisation means it’s far removed from an ‘affordable’ entry-level model. With huge outputs and ultra-advanced electronics, it’s a true junior supercar and seems certain to ultimately elbow the F8 out of the Ferrari line-up. It’s also likely to cost about $500,000 when it makes it to Australia in 2022

But back to that F163 twin-turbo V6, which is a genuine benchmark. Making a whopping 163kW per litre – 488kW from 2992cc – it boasts the highest specific output of any production car engine, toppling the AMG A45 S and its 155kW-per-litre M139 2.0-litre turbo.

With the optional Assetto Fiorano package, the 296 GTB is among the fastest horses to ever tackle Fiorano, posting the same lap time as the F12tdf of 1m:21sec. It’s a mere two seconds slower than the demonic SF90 Stradale hybrid.