2026 Ferrari 296 GTS: Exclusive First Drive with David Russell
Andrew van Leeuwen for Wheels Magazine | June 10, 2026
For most automotive enthusiasts, the dream of piloting a Ferrari remains just that—a dream. Yet, for a fortunate few, the dream becomes a tangible reality. I recently had the privilege of experiencing the allure of the Prancing Horse firsthand, driving the 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS from Adelaide to The Bend Motorsport Park. This wasn’t just a drive; it was an immersion into a world of automotive perfection, a journey made even more memorable by the realization that this was my very first time behind the wheel of a Ferrari.
The moment I settled into the 296 GTS—finished in the striking Rosso Imola red—the significance of the occasion became crystal clear. As I carefully navigated the luxury sportscar, every detail amplified the experience: the substantial weight of the key, the low-slung seating position that connects you intrinsically to the road, and the very essence of performance that radiates from the steering wheel. This was more than a test drive; it was a pilgrimage to the heart of automotive passion.
Exploring the Ferrari Lifestyle
Steering the 296 GTS through the Australian landscape was an exploration of Ferrari’s unique lifestyle. While the interior lacks the practicality of a daily driver—don’t even think about finding a designated spot for your water bottle, and packing more than a backpack is an exercise in futility—it doesn’t matter. This is a two-seater Ferrari supercar, equipped with “qualifying mode.” For drivers who demand ultimate performance, the amenities are irrelevant. The only thing that matters is the drive, the power, and the unmistakable thrill of piloting one of the world’s most iconic automobiles.
Our journey was deeply rooted in Ferrari’s motorsport heritage. The primary reason for this expedition was the official launch of the Ferrari Challenge Australasia racing series, which was scheduled to kick off in 2025. Experiencing the road-going 296 GTS en route to The Bend was a bonus—a unique opportunity to savor the essence of the brand before diving into the intensity of the race track.
Navigating the Roads with Modern Ferrari Technology
Driving the 296 GTS on public roads necessitated strict adherence to traffic laws, a stark contrast to the untamed performance capabilities of the car. Modern supercars, however, feature advanced technology that mitigates the brutality of aggressive engine tuning, stiff clutches, and high-performance gearboxes—elements that once made low-speed driving in these machines challenging.
The 296 GTS features a hybrid system that allows for electric-only driving in traffic, offering plenty of power and a smooth, quiet ride. Once the throttle is applied, the twin-turbo V6 bursts to life, delivering its power with silken grace. While the automatic switch from electric to ICE is a fun party trick, I found myself longing for the raw power of the V6, as the experience of driving a Ferrari is not about smooth rides; it’s about performance.
Unlocking the Power of the Ferrari 296 GTS
With the traffic cleared, the focus shifted to enjoying the twin-turbo V6—responsibly, of course. The 296 GTS boasts a peak output of 830 horsepower in qualifying mode, combining internal combustion and electric power.
Spoiler alert: it’s incredibly fun. Even at lower speeds, the performance is exhilarating, offering the full turbo experience with aggressive engine notes that will delight any automotive enthusiast.
Fortunately, the sanitization of the low-speed driving experience doesn’t detract from the true nature of the car. On faster, bumpier roads, the 296 GTS reminds you that you are driving a Ferrari. You feel every bump, every nuance of the road surface. For a purist with a racing background, the experience is nothing short of incredible.
One word of caution: when they say the steering is direct, they mean it. While the handling is manageable on the open road, be extremely cautious when avoiding potholes on the highway. A small twitch of the wheel can send the car into another lane very quickly.
Ferrari Challenge Australasia: The Next Level of Competition
At Ferrari, the experience is paramount. This philosophy is clearly reflected in the new Ferrari Challenge series. Ferrari Challenge Australasia is an extension of the Club Challenge program that has been running in Australia since 2022.
Club Challenge gives customers the chance to purchase a Challenge race car—historically, mostly the 488 Evo—and participate in track days with expert coaching and technical support. The program also offers the level of hospitality that Ferrari customers expect.
Similar to Ferrari’s existing client programs in Europe, North America, the UK, and Japan, Australia now has access to the next tier of Ferrari’s competitive series—a dedicated one-make racing series. Rather than targeting professional racing drivers, like GT World Challenge Australia or Carrera Cup, Ferrari aims to attract new drivers to the market.
The 296 Challenge: A Blend of Performance and Refinement
The carrot for new drivers is the brand new 296 Challenge, a stunning race car that represents the third generation of the Challenge line, following the 458 and 488. The key to the 296 Challenge’s success lies in its refinement.
While previous V8-powered versions suffered from understeer, typical for amateur race cars, Ferrari has improved the aerodynamics with an s-duct at the front and swan-neck mounts on the rear wing. This design boosts overall downforce and shifts the balance forward, increasing grip without making the car too difficult for amateur drivers to handle.
A Modern Racing Machine
The 296 Challenge features a new braking package with a wider operating window, and the removal of the hybrid system allowed Ferrari to incorporate an effective air conditioning unit, improving driver comfort during long racing sessions.
While the first V6-powered Challenge car may lack the hybrid assistance of its road-going counterpart, it still produces 700 horsepower, more than 30 bhp above the isolated ICE horsepower of the road car.
The overall outcome is a race car that is significantly quicker than the 488 Challenge. The older model will remain eligible for Ferrari Challenge Australasia but will compete in a separate class due to the performance deficit.
Ferrari Challenge Australasia Calendar
Ferrari Challenge has announced its 2025 calendar, which includes five rounds. The series kicks off as a support category at the Bathurst 12 Hour and then joins the new SRO series at Phillip Island, Sydney Motorsport Park, and The Bend. Another Sydney Motorsport Park event will be hosted by Ferrari itself.
The Financial Reality of Ferrari Ownership
Owning a Ferrari is a significant financial commitment. The cost of the 296 Challenge is not publicly disclosed, as Ferrari only shares this information with potential buyers.
Interestingly, the race car is cheaper than its road-going counterpart because it is not taxed like a registered vehicle. However, this doesn’t mean it’s affordable. Budgets for a racing season can be substantial, making the Ferrari Challenge accessible primarily to amateur drivers rather than professionals. Ferrari expects 18-20 cars to be on the grid in 2025, with most positions already filled.
What This Means for You
For those who dream of owning a Ferrari, the 2026 296 GTS represents the pinnacle of modern automotive engineering. Its hybrid system allows for a refined driving experience in traffic, while the twin-turbo V6 delivers the raw power that defines the Ferrari brand. The 296 Challenge offers a unique opportunity for amateur drivers to compete in a dedicated racing series, following in the footsteps of professional racers like David Russell.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest?
The decision to purchase a Ferrari is a significant one. The 296 GTS is an aspirational vehicle, and its price reflects its exclusivity and performance. If you are considering a purchase, be sure to consult with a Ferrari dealer to understand the full cost of ownership. If you are interested in racing, the 296 Challenge offers a unique opportunity to compete in a dedicated series with expert support.
Best Financial Strategies Right Now (2026)
If you are looking to invest in a Ferrari, the 2026 296 GTS is a compelling option. The 296 Challenge series offers a unique opportunity for amateur drivers to compete in a dedicated racing series with expert support.
Cost Breakdown / Pricing Impact (if applicable)
The cost of the 296 GTS is not publicly disclosed, as Ferrari only shares this information with potential buyers. The 296 Challenge is cheaper than its road-going counterpart, but budgets for a racing season can be substantial.
Mistakes to Avoid That Could Cost You Money
Owning a Ferrari is a significant financial commitment. Be sure to understand the full cost of ownership before purchasing a Ferrari. If you are interested in racing, be sure to consult with a Ferrari dealer to understand the full cost of ownership.
Final Thoughts
Driving the 296 GTS was an unforgettable experience. The car is a masterpiece of engineering, and the Ferrari Challenge series offers a unique opportunity for amateur drivers to compete in a dedicated racing series with expert support. If you are looking to invest in a Ferrari, the 2026 296 GTS is a compelling option.
Ready to Experience the Thrill of Ferrari?
If you are considering purchasing a Ferrari or participating in the Ferrari Challenge series, be sure to consult with a Ferrari dealer to understand the full cost of ownership. Our team of experts is here to help
