The 2026 Ferrari 296 Speciale redefines mid-engine hybrid performance, boosting the standard 296 GTB’s plug-in powertrain to 868 horsepower while slashing weight and sharpening dynamics to set a new lap-time benchmark for Ferrari road cars. Early testing confirms its Fiorano lap matches the SF90 Stradale, blending V6 ferocity with electric seamlessness for track dominance and road thrill.
Enhanced Hybrid V6 Powertrain
Ferrari ups the ante on the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 to 691 hp (from 654), paired with a stronger 177-hp e-motor for combined 868 hp and 557 lb-ft—up 6% overall. Qualifying mode unlocks full grunt with extra boost past 6,000 rpm, hitting 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds (estimated) and topping 205 mph. The 8-speed DCT shifts with zero lag via electric torque fill, while a 7.45-kWh battery enables 2-3 miles EV-only cruising.
Fuel use sits at 8.9 L/100 km combined, with 218 g/km CO2 under WLTP.
Chassis and Aero Mastery
35 kg lighter than the GTB at 3,108 lbs dry (3,400 curb est.), the Speciale gains 20% more downforce (435 kg at 250 km/h) from an active rear spoiler, optimized diffuser, and front aero tweaks. Multimatic dampers, rear-axle steering, and Michelin Cup 2R tires boost lateral grip 4%, with ABS Evo and SSC 9.0 honing traction for 2.5-second Fiorano gains.
It’s rear-drive only, rewarding skill with playful oversteer.
Driving Dynamics Tested
On track, the Speciale feels telepathic—linear power floods corners, front grip bites early, and e-boost catapults exits. Braking from 124 mph shrinks 20 feet shorter than GTB, with neutral poise inviting rotation. Road manners amaze: compliant in Wet/Comfort for highways, razor-edged in Race. Soundtrack? F1-derived knock control yields a savage V6 scream to 8,500 rpm.
Interior and Everyday Usability
Minimalist cabin prioritizes driver: 10.25-inch digital gauges, central touchscreen with Ferrari OS, and Alcantara/carbon buckets. Trunk holds 5.5 cubic feet; no back seats. Daily refinement shines—quiet EV mode, usable ride—but supercar compromises remain.
296 Speciale vs GTB Key Gains
| Metric | 296 GTB | 296 Speciale |
|---|---|---|
| Total Power | 819 hp | 868 hp |
| Weight (dry) | 3,143 lbs | 3,108 lbs (-35 kg) |
| Downforce @250 km/h | 363 kg | 435 kg (+20%) |
| Fiorano Lap | ~1:21.5 | 1:19 (-2.5 sec) |
| 0-62 mph | 2.9 sec | 2.8 sec |
| Price (est.) | $340K+ | $450K+ |
Benchmark Verdict
The Speciale isn’t just faster—it’s more alive, proving Ferrari’s V6 hybrid pinnacle rivals V12 icons on track while thrilling roads. Limited production cements its status.
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FAQs
Q1 Full EV range?
Minimal—focus on hybrid boost.
Q2 Manual option?
No, DCT only.
Q3 Track tires standard?
Cup 2Rs yes.