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 history 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 to 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 and Spider. 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.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 296GTB’s price tag makes it unobtainable to the majority of us. However, if we could afford one, we’d opt for the carbon-fiber wheels as well as the carbon-fiber Daytona seats.

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 6.0-kWh battery pack located under the floor. Its 8500-rpm redline provides a visceral driving experience, as we learned during our first drive. We also experienced its exhilarating acceleration and the ability to easily probe the limits of its lofty performance. 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

The EPA estimates that the 296GTB is good for 47 MPGe with a mix of city and highway driving and its onboard battery is capable of delivering around 8 miles of electric-only motoring. For more information about the 296GTB’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the 296GTB is an exercise in elegant minimalism, except for the steering wheel. Its excessive controls create an ergonomic nightmare. Otherwise, the dashboard features an entirely digital interface that is derived from the SF90. 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.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 296GTB doesn’t have a traditional infotainment system. Instead, functions for the audio and navigation systems are integrated into the digital gauge cluster. Unfortunately, we found the system to be rather clumsy to use. The passenger is also treated to a digital display that Ferrari says is intended to make them feel like a co-driver.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 296GTB is a car that’s made to be driven, so Ferrari hasn’t endowed it with any driver-assistance tech. It does have airbags and a backup camera though. For more information about the 296GTB’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Ferrari’s powertrain warranty is shorter than what many mainstream automakers offer, but it’s competitive with other supercar makers, such as Lamborghini and McLaren. Unlike those two rivals, however, Ferrari also provides an incredible amount of complimentary maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
• Powertrain warranty covers three years and unlimited miles
• Complimentary maintenance covers seven years and unlimited miles

More Features and Specs

Source: www.caranddriver.com