New Ferrari 296 GTS plug-in hybrid convertible supercar revealed

Ferrari has taken a tin opener to its entry-level, plug-in hybrid supercar and created Maranello’s latest drop-top supercar: the new 296 GTS. 

Effectively a convertible ‘Spider’ version of the 296 GTB coupe we drove earlier this year, the new GTS features a novel retractable hardtop that can be raised or lowered in just 14 seconds and at speeds of up to 28mph. With the roof stowed, the interior and rear deck are separated by an adjustable glass screen that is claimed to reduce buffeting from the wind at high speeds. Due to that folding hard top, GTS tips the scales at 1,540kg, which is slightly more than the coupe’s 1,470kg dry weight. 

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In all other respects, the GTS is identical to the fixed roof GTB, which means it uses the same plug-in powertrain that combines a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine with a single 161bhp electric motor that’s sandwiched between the engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. This combines in a spectacular combined output of 819bhp and 740Nm of torque, which allows the  mid-engined drop-top supercar to sprint from 0-62mph in the same 2.9 seconds as the GTB. Top speed stands at over 205mph as well.

The hybrid powertrain’s relatively small 7.45kWh battery means that the 296 GTS’ pure-electric driving range in its eDrive mode is limited to 15 miles, plus it can travel at speeds of up to 84mph. The other three modes on the eManettino switch for the powertrain are Hybrid, Performance and Qualify. There’s also traditional steering-wheel mounted Manettino control for the other driving modes, while the car's traction control features the latest version of Ferrari’s Side Slip Control system that allows drivers to drift the 296 GTS with the assistance and reassurance of the electronic safety systems.

Like the GTB, the 296 GTS is also available with the optional Assetto Fiorano package, which adds racing-derived adjustable shock absorbers, carbon-fibre trim and a new front splitter for increased downforce. Plus, a unique livery inspired by the Ferrari 250 Le Mans race cars from the 1960s.

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Inside, the 296 GTS features the same driver-focused cockpit design that made its debut in the SF90 Stradale. That includes a H-pattern gear selector and no central infotainment screen. Instead, the driver gets a large digital display, with the option of adding a smaller screen in the dashboard for your passenger.

Ferrari has not yet announced the UK price tag for its new plug-in hybrid convertible, but we expect it’ll command a significant price jump over 296 GTB which starts from over £240,000. That could mean a starting price of around £260,000-£270,000 for the 296 GTS, while adding the Assetto Fiorano package is likely to increase the Ferrari's price tag to nearly £300,000.

The 296 twins aren’t the first hybrid road cars Ferrari has produced, as they follow in the footsteps of the coupe and open-top variants of the LaFerrari and SF90 Stradale. However, the company isn't stopping at plug-in hybrids; company chairman John Elkann revealed in 2021 that a fully electric model bearing the Prancing Horse badge will be unveiled in 2025.