30-04-2025
Ferrari Unleashes the 296 Speciale for 2026 with Blistering Power
Ferrari has officially pulled the wraps off the 296 Speciale and its convertible twin, the 296 Speciale A, in the brand's legendary hometown of Maranello. That's where our colleague, Saheb Shashaa, got an exclusive look at the latest chapter in Ferrari's hybrid supercar saga.
Set to arrive as a 2026 model, the Ferrari 296 Speciale is a mid-engine hybrid coupe that redefines dynamic driving in Maranello's current lineup and across its class. Building on the foundation of the 296 GTB, the Speciale elevates output to a staggering 880 horsepower—700 hp from its twin-turbo V6 and another 180 hp from a plug-in hybrid system—marking a 50 hp increase over the GTB. With a weight reduction of 60 kg, Ferrari has achieved a class-leading 1.60 kg/hp power-to-weight ratio, the best yet for a rear-engined coupé from the brand.
Thanks to active aerodynamic solutions like an air brake and sculpted side winglets, downforce has been boosted by 20%, reaching 435 kg at 250 km/h. Handling is sharpened with a bespoke suspension setup, the latest generation ABS Evo, and grippy Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
The V6 powerplant is enhanced with motorsport-grade upgrades including titanium connecting rods and a lighter crankshaft. It's paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for razor-sharp gear changes.
Visually, the Speciale takes heavy inspiration from Ferrari's racing DNA. A prominent front splitter and aggressive rear wing define its exterior presence. It rides on staggered 20-inch wheels—245/35 ZR20 at the front (J9.0) and 305/35 ZR20 at the rear (J11.0)—wrapped in track-ready Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 rubber.
Key Dimensions and Weight
Length: 4625 mm
Width: 1968 mm
Height: 1181 mm
Wheelbase: 2600 mm
Dry Weight: 1410 kg
Weight Distribution: 40% front / 60% rear
Fuel Tank: 65 liters (with 10-liter reserve)
Front Luggage Compartment: 169 liters
Rear Storage: 112 liters
Powertrain & Hybrid System Under the hood lies a 2992cc twin-turbo V6 producing 700 hp at 8000 rpm and 755 Nm at 6000 rpm, mated to an eight-speed F1-style DCT. Supplementing the combustion unit is an electric motor powered by a 7.45 kWh battery, generating an additional 154 hp. It allows for up to 25 km of electric-only driving at speeds not exceeding 135 km/h. Combined, the hybrid system delivers a total output of 880 hp.
Performance Stats
Top Speed: Over 330 km/h
0–100 km/h: 2.8 seconds
0–200 km/h: 7.0 seconds
Fiorano Lap Time: 1 minute 19 seconds
Acoustic Engineering While rooted in the signature sound of the 296 GTB, the Speciale takes audio immersion to the next level. The engine's acoustics benefit from less restrictive design, richer high-frequency tones, and enhanced volume. Ferrari also developed new audio pathways and integrated advanced 3D sound simulation. The drop-top variant doubles the number of internal sound channels compared to the GTB, with redesigned positioning for a more spatially refined auditory experience. A specially developed piping system delivers raw V6 engine noise directly into the cabin.
Interior Philosophy Inside, the 296 Speciale follows Ferrari's modern Speciale blueprint—stripped-down yet refined. Compared to the GTB, the cabin is simplified with fewer individual elements, contributing to weight savings. Extensive carbon fiber and Alcantara use give it a motorsport-focused ambiance. Even the aluminum trim and component layout are optimized to align with the car's lightweight ethos.
With this launch, Ferrari adds another icon to its Speciale lineage—one that blends power, precision, and emotional engagement like no other.
