Combining Ferrari’s first-ever road-going V6 engine in a brutally powerful electric powerplant, the new plug-in hybrid 296 GTB launched at around Rs. 5.4 crore, with all options (ex-showroom) in India this afternoon at the Italian manufacturer’s Mumbai showroom.
For decades, Ferrari refused to release V6 models under their badge, preferring to slap on the ‘Dino’ marque in honour of Enzo Ferrari’s son Alfredo. The last Dino model, the 246 GT, was released back in 1974. Today’s release, on the other hand, is a thoroughly modern beast — capable of jaw-droppingly powerful performance.
At the heart of the 296 GTB lies a V6, supplemented by twin turbochargers and an electric motor. Combined, the supercar delivers 830PS — capable of 0-100 kmph in just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 330 kmph. While the 259 GTB comes with a silent, all-electric driving mode, you’ll want the V6 fired up most of the time — it sounds absolutely glorious, with the uncommon 120º firing order offering a symphony resembling the car’s older V12 siblings. It also sits lower in the engine bay than the average V6, offering better cornering with a lower centre of gravity.
The styling is surprisingly understated and compact, especially compared to Ferrari’s recently launched Daytona SP3, with a short wheelbase around 50mm tighter than Ferrari’s previous mid-engined berlinettas. Under its restrained, elegant lines lie an array of fly-by-wire brakes and magnetically controlled adaptive dampers, mated to a series of six-way dynamic sensors. There’s also an active rear spoiler which pops out of the rear deck and provides 100kg of downforce on its own.
The cabin follows similar styling cues to the SF90 Stradale from 2019, Ferrari’s first plug-in hybrid. This minimalist take on classic Ferrari interiors comes with a few Ferrari trademarks, such as the ‘manettino’ drive mode selector, H-gate shifter, and a driver–focused lighting and instrument cluster package.
Buyers can also slap on a few extras with the ‘Assetto Fiorano’ package, including a livery inspired by Ferrari’s 250 Le Mans classic, a set of Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres, extra carbon fibre trim, GT racing-derived shock absorbers, upgraded panels and a Lexan rear screen, all of which slash off 15 kgs from the car’s already lean 1,470 kg kerb weight.
Most of all, the 296 GTB takes a bold new step in Ferrari’s electrification project — with plans to release the company’s first EV and the plug-in hybrid Purosangue SUV within the next few years.
Lead Image: Ferrari
