Ferrari unveils new 296 GTS with retractable roof, 830-hp hybrid V6

Ferrari is expanding the model range of its latest V6 supercar, the 296 GTB, with the introduction of the new 296 GTS.

Ferrari 296 GTS

GTS stands for Grand Turismo Spider. This means that the model is available with a retractable hardtop (RHT). It can now provide a spirited, open-air driving experience while letting the passengers hear the sounds of the unique Ferrari V6 engine. Let’s take a look at what more the latest addition to the nameplate can offer.

Exterior

The new Ferrari 296 GTS kept most of the sophisticated design of the GTB (Grant Touring Berlinetta) version, with the addition of an RHT as part of its major update, which can be deployed/retracted within 14 seconds. Drivers have to limit the vehicle speed to 45 km/h to operate the new feature.

It rides on 20-inch alloy wheels

To support the new RHT, Ferrari further reinforced the chassis components of the supercar. This improves the torsional rigidity and beam stiffness mainly around the A-pillar, B-pillar, and sills. The only downside is that the retractable roof brings a weight penalty, making the GTS version 70 kg heavier than the 296 GTB.

Interior

Ferrari said that the designers developed the interior layout around the digital interface concept inside the 1,000-hp Ferrari SF90. But to create a distinction from its hybrid sibling, the 296 GTS’ cabin layout favors sophisticated and plush details instead of the advanced-looking cockpit finish of the SF90.

Inspired by the Ferrari SF90

As a result, the new Italian Spider exudes a ‘minimalistic connotation characterized by a powerful elegance that perfectly mirrors the design of the exterior.’

Tech & Safety

The driver side gets a fully digital instrument cluster, while the passenger gets a co-driver-styled instrumentation screen on the dashboard which displays various information such as the vehicle speed. And of course, a ‘296 GTS’ badge is embedded right above the passenger’s screen.

A hybrid powertrain is the go-to for the 296 GTS

An ABS EVO controller is installed to ensure more consistent braking than before, even under repeated heavy braking. This feature is complemented by the 6-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor (6w-CDS), providing data to the ABS EVO controller for a safer drive.

Engine & Powertrain

The Ferrari 296 GTS is still powered by the same 2.9-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor and a 7.45-kWh battery pack. Overall, the hybrid powertrain is capable of generating 830 horsepower and 740 Nm of torque. It sends power exclusively to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The Ferrari 296 GTS with the track-ready Assetto Fiorano

Despite the additional weight of the RHT system, Ferrari claims that the new 296 GTS can still run from zero to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds, the same acceleration time as the lighter 296 GTB. The powertrain can shift to an all-electric mode which allows drivers to achieve a maximum range of 25 km.

Pricing

No official pricing has been disclosed just yet. But interested individuals can expect a higher price tag than the 296 GTB mainly due to the integration of an RHT. The Ferrari 296 GTS is expected to go on sale later this year.

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