August 21, 2025 – Ferrari unveiled the V6 PHEV special version model, the 296 Speciale, at the Ferrari Banpo Showroom on Thursday, August 21.

Based on Ferrari’s existing berlinetta(coupé) or spider(open-top) models, special series models are designed to set a new benchmark in driving thrills and engagement by taking performance, weight-saving solutions, aerodynamics, and design to extreme new levels. The Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale, and 488 Pista are part of the exclusive lineage of special versions, and the newly launched 296 Speciale is derived from the 296 GTB. 

The 296 Speciale is designed to set a new benchmark in terms of ‘driving thrills,’ accentuating the dynamic capabilities while maintaining the elegant design of the 296 GTB. The powertrain delivers a combined power output of 880 cv, 50 more than the 296 GTB, through enhancements to both the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. The overall weight has been reduced by 60 kg by using a wide range of racing-proven lightweight materials, including carbon fibre and titanium. The resulting weight/power ratio, which is directly linked to driving emotion, is just 1.60 kg/cv, a record for a rear-wheel-drive Ferrari berlinetta. Thanks to the innovative aerodynamic solutions, the 296 Speciale generates 435 kg of downforce in total at 250 km/h, which is 20% more than the 296 GTB.

The engine of the 296 Speciale was inspired by the 499P, which won the 2023 ~2025 editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, as well as its extensive experience in motorsports. The hybrid powertrain of the 296 Speciale combines a V6 engine with 700 cv and the electric motor delivering 180 cv. The electric motor is also used to charge the high-voltage battery and provide a full-electric driving mode with a range of up to 25 km. Combustion chamber pressure has been raised by 7% compared to the 296 GTB’s engine and strengthened pistons and the same titanium connecting rods as the F80 were adopted to withstand the increased combustion chamber pressures. The new extra boost function, which is only available in the ‘Qualify’ eManettino setting, delivers up to 315 Nm of torque and 180 cv of power when exiting corners, helping reduce lap times. This represents an increase of 13 cv over the 296 GTB.

The development of the new model also incorporates aerodynamic solutions derived from the 296 GT3 and 296 Challenge. At the rear of the car, there are side wings featured on the FXX-K and the new active spoiler of the 296 Challenge. The spoiler is now managed by a new actuator control strategy that not only shortens the transition time to High Downforce (HD) configurations but also introduces a new Medium Downforce (MD) configuration, which improves rear-end stability at high speeds. The aero damper concept and front louvres borrowed from the 296 GT3 were adapted to the front of the car to reduce pressure in the wheel housing and improve driving stability.

The engine sound of the 296 Speciale takes the acclaimed sound concept of the 296 GTB to the new heights, further enhancing the distinctive character of the ‘piccolo V12.’ New acoustic ducts were designed for this car with sophisticated 3D acoustic simulation systems: the 296 Speciale features twice as many of these ducts as the 296 GTB, while their positions have been redefined to hone the spatial quality of the sound. Moreover, the engine sound of the V6 during both upshifts and downshifts has been recalibrated and accentuated to offer an even more thrilling driving experience.

The 296 Speciale features the latest ABS Evo controller system which uses parameters acquired from the 6D sensor to optimise brake force distribution more effectively. The suspension adopts Multimatic® single-rate shock absorbers derived from the 296 GT3 and titanium springs, achieving both agility and weight saving. A dedicated version of the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyre has been developed for this car, with increased tyre wall stiffness and a new tread compound that improves both yaw control and response times.

Ferrari defines the concept of driving thrills through five quantifiable parameters: ▲lateral and ▲longitudinal acceleration, ▲shifting, ▲braking and ▲sound. Lateral acceleration refers to response to steering input – such as the sensation of turn-in speed and of a firmly planted rear end – coupled with how easy it is to drive at the limit. Longitudinal acceleration, on the other hand, indicates the car’s response to throttle input and seamless power that continues to build as engine speed rises. Shifting feel has been meticulously calibrated, down to the sensation at the driver’s fingertips. In terms of braking, it has improved the brake pedal feels and response to guarantee consistent braking performance. The quality of the engine sound has been designed to build progressively in volume in the cockpit with rising engine speed.

Kwang Chul Kim, CEO of FMK said “It is an honor to introduce Ferrari’s latest special series model, the 296 Speciale, in Korea, nearly six years after the launch of the 488 Pista in 2019. The new model embodies the essence of motorsports and the finest expression of Ferrari’s engineering and is expected to provide an exclusive driving experiences to Korean clients.”