2022 Ferrari 296GTB
Overview
The 2022 Ferrari 296GTB is an exotic sports car that represents a new era for the Italian automaker, one that revolves around a V-6 engine and hybrid technology. While both features are rare among Ferrari’s long of road cars, they each have been employed in the company’s racing campaigns. On the GTB, which stands for Gran Turismo Berlinetta, a combined 819 horsepower comes from a mid-mounted turbocharged V-6 and an electric motor that’s sandwiched between the engine and the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All that power is sent solely to the rear wheels, which when combined with the 296GTB’s compact size and relatively lightweight construction should make for a hugely entertaining machine. Its beautiful bodywork and fashionable cabin look make it a showstopping piece as well.
What’s New for 2022?
The 2022 296GTB is an all-new, plug-in-hybrid model in Ferrari’s portfolio, which already includes the plug-in SF90 Stradale. Look for the GTB to start the trend of Ferrari models with smaller-displacement engines and hybrid integration as the automotive landscape begins to further embrace electrification.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Behind the cockpit of the 296GTB is a turbocharged V-6 that pairs with a plug-in-hybrid system. Together the gas engine and electric motor combine to produce 819 horsepower that’s sent exclusively to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The GTB is also capable of driving on electricity alone on power drawn from a 7.5-kWh battery pack located under the floor. Ferrari claims that the six-cylinder engine sounds like a “little V-12,” but that remains to be heard. However, its 8500-rpm redline promises a visceral driving experience. The GTB features an active rear spoiler that’s inspired by the LaFerrari and designed to generate extra downforce. With compact dimensions and a short wheelbase, Ferrari says the car’s fun-to-drive factor will be high. Along with four drive modes–eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Qualify–that provide ascending performance characteristics, the 296GTB features electrically assisted power steering and a brake-by-wire system. If you want lighter wheels than the standard twin-spoke forged units, a set of rims made of carbon fiber are available.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Neither the EPA nor Ferrari have said how fuel-efficient the 296GTB will be. However, Ferrari claims that it’ll have an all-electric driving range of approximately 15 miles on a full charge. Once its EPA-rated city, highway, and combined figures are released, we’ll have a better idea of how frugal the super-powerful plug-in hybrid actually is. For more information about the 296GTB’s fuel economy.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the 296GTB is an exercise in elegant minimalism. The dashboard features an entirely digital interface that is derived from the SF90. The passenger is also treated to a digital display that Ferrari says is intended to make them feel like a co-driver. The GTB’s seats and various interior surfaces are covered with Italian leather that showcases the coupe’s luxurious side. The center console contains a push-button shifter inspired by the gated manual Ferrari gearboxes of old. There’s a small compartment for storing the GTB’s ignition key on the center console, too. A head-up display is also discreetly integrated into the top of the dash.
