Hybrids are no longer for Toyota drivers, they’re for Ferrari fans too.
Overnight the Prancing Horse revealed the new 296 GTB, which has a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a total system output of 610kW.
At its heart is a 3.0-litre turbocharged 120-degree V6 mounted behind the passenger cell making 488kW at 8000rpm and 740Nm at 6250rpm.
It drives the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Sandwiched between the V6 and the transmission is an electric motor rated at 122kW and 315Nm.
According to Ferrari, the 296 GTB is capable of doing the 0-100km/h dash in 2.9 seconds, hitting 200km/h within 7.3 seconds, and has a top speed over 330km/h.
A 7.5kWh battery pack allows the 296 GTB to function as a pure electric vehicle when desired or required.
The 296 GTB rides on 20-inch wheels with 245/35 tyres up front and 305/35 rubber at the rear.
The cabin features a large instrumentation screen that doubles up as the infotainment display for the driver. The steering wheel spokes have capacitive buttons and a mini-thumbpad to control all of the car’s non-essential features.
In addition to this there’s a head-up display, and a disguised display for the passenger.
Buyers who opt for the Assetto Fiorano package will be treated to a car with Multimatic suspension, and lightweight doors that drop the kerb weight by 12kg.
Options for the Assetto Fiorano include a two-tone exterior inspired by the 250 Le Mans, Michelin Cup 2R tyres, and a Lexan rear window that removes a further 3kg from the car.
Buyers can also option lightweight carbon wheels produced by Australian company Carbon Revolution.
Measuring 4565mm long, 1958mm wide, 1187mm tall, and riding on a 2600mm wheelbase, the 296 GTB is 46mm shorter, 21mm narrower, 19mm lower and has a 50mm shorter wheelbase than the F8 Tributo.
The hybrid drivetrain means the 296 GTB’s dry weight is 140kg more than the F8 Tributo, although this is balanced out by the 296’s extra 80kW.
In performance terms, the two cars have identical 0-100km/h times, but the 296 GTB is 0.5s quicker to the double tonne, and is 1.5s quicker around the Fiorano track.
