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Experiencing the Ferrari 296 GTS: A Deep Dive into Handling, Technology, and the Drive to The Bend
There is a rare opportunity that comes along in the automotive world—one that truly separates the enthusiast from the spectator. Driving a Ferrari is often on the bucket list, but the privilege of getting behind the wheel is reserved for only the most dedicated customers or invited journalists. In September 2026, I was granted one such chance: to experience the formidable Ferrari 296 GTS firsthand in South Australia, with a secondary mission to witness the launch of the new Ferrari Challenge Australasia racing series.
My journey to The Bend Motorsport Park was a study in contrasts. Here was a road-going supercar—a 296 GTS painted in the striking Rosso Imola—that I had only briefly seen and admired. The realisation that I had, in fact, never driven a Ferrari before hit me as I carefully settled into the low cockpit. It was a moment of quiet reverence; the heavy, substantial key in my hand, the aggressive seating position, and the instantly recognisable scream of the performance steering wheel combined into a potent sensory experience that amplified every detail of the journey.
Technology Meets Tradition: A Hybrid Driving Experience
The drive to the track was conducted entirely under open road conditions, demanding strict adherence to Australian driving laws. However, one of the most significant developments in modern hypercars—and particularly within the Ferrari lineup—is the masterful integration of technology to ease the burden of everyday driving. The Ferrari 296 GTS leverages its advanced hybrid system to deliver substantial electric power, allowing for operation in heavy traffic without the brutal intensity that traditionally defined such vehicles.
Transitioning from electric stealth to combustion power is seamless. The twin-turbo V6 engine, when engaged, provides a silky-smooth delivery. The switch from the silent hum of battery power to the thunderous roar of the internal combustion engine (ICE) is a remarkable technical feat. It is the ultimate party trick for a Ferrari, though my personal preference leaned towards utilizing the ICE for the full sensory experience. I hadn’t driven a Ferrari to experience quiet comfort; I had driven one for the exhilaration that only raw power can provide.
Performance, Precision, and Safety
With traffic cleared, the focus shifted to exploring the full capabilities of the 296’s twin-turbo V6. The car produces a staggering 830 horsepower when both the ICE and the electric motor work in tandem under Qualifying mode. It is a tremendous amount of power, and the delivery is exhilarating. Even backing off the throttle reveals the satisfying surge of the turbos, a treat for drivers who appreciate the aggressive sound of forced induction.
Yet, Ferrari has managed to sanitise the driving experience in the areas that matter most for road use, such as low-speed handling and comfort. On faster, more technical roads, the raw connection to the tarmac remains undeniable. You feel every undulation of the road, every subtle change in grip—a visceral connection that even seasoned enthusiasts crave.
This precision, however, comes with a critical caveat: the steering. When Ferrari engineers speak of “direct steering,” they mean it absolutely. Out on the open road, the car is highly responsive and manageable. However, approaching a pothole requires absolute precision. A careless movement of the wheel on the highway can send the car into an adjacent lane faster than expected. This is a characteristic of high-performance vehicles that demand focused attention from the driver, a reminder that while technology makes the 296 manageable, it is still a race-bred machine masquerading as a luxury sports car.
The Ferrari Challenge: A New Era for Client Competition
The journey was punctuated by the official launch of the Ferrari Challenge Australasia racing series, scheduled to commence in 2025. This series represents the next logical step in Ferrari’s commitment to its loyal customer base, known as ‘clienti’. The Challenge program builds upon the foundation laid by the Club Challenge initiative, which has allowed Australian customers to purchase dedicated race cars—traditionally the 488 Evo model—for track days.
The Club Challenge provides an unparalleled level of support, including expert coaching and technical assistance, all delivered with the hallmark hospitality that Ferrari customers expect. This expansion of the Challenge program brings Australia into alignment with established networks in Europe, North America, the UK, and Japan. Unlike other racing categories in Australia, such as GT World Challenge Australasia or Carrera Cup, which target existing professional racers, Ferrari aims to attract a new generation of drivers to motorsport.
The incentive for drivers to join this new series is the brand-new 296 Challenge—a vehicle that mirrors the stunning design of its road-going counterpart. As the third generation of Ferrari Challenge car, following the 458 and 488, the key to the 296’s success lies in its refinement.
Ferrari engineers have addressed the understeer that plagued earlier V8-powered versions—a common issue for cars built for amateur drivers. Through the implementation of an s-duct at the front and swan neck mounting for the rear wing, Ferrari has significantly boosted overall downforce and shifted the aerodynamic balance forward. This enhances grip without making the car overly difficult to handle, a crucial development for amateur competitors.
Technical Refinements and Performance Enhancements
The 296 Challenge features a new braking package designed for a much wider operating window. Furthermore, the removal of the hybrid system allowed for the installation of a highly effective air conditioning unit, improving driver comfort during intense racing conditions.
Although the first V6-powered Challenge car is lighter without the electric hybrid boost, it still delivers impressive performance. Through revised exhaust tuning and other enhancements, the car produces 700 horsepower—nearly 30 horsepower more than the isolated ICE output of the road-going 296.
The result is a race car that is significantly quicker than the 488 Challenge. While the older model will remain eligible for the Ferrari Challenge Australasia, it will compete in a separate class to account for the performance deficit.
Dealer Alignment and Racing Support
The Ferrari Challenge series is entirely dealer-aligned. Customers interested in racing purchase their 296 Challenge from their local Ferrari agent. The dealership then partners with an approved Ferrari racing team, which collaborates closely with both AF Corse in Italy and Motokinetic in Australia.
While owners are permitted to take their 296 Challenge home, the full racing experience is delivered turnkey. The dealer-aligned team, guided by the Italian and Australian partners, handles the running of the car, providing a dedicated engineer, mechanics, and a driver coach. Attendees at The Bend witnessed first-hand the premium experience offered, with access to top-tier hospitality and amenities throughout the racing event.
Cost Considerations and Market Strategy
When inquired about the cost, Ferrari remains discreet, revealing figures only to potential buyers who show serious commitment to racing. It is worth noting that the race car is priced lower than its road-going counterpart, as it is not subject to the same registration taxes. However, this does not imply affordability; market rumours suggest that the budget required for a full season is substantial.
The investment in both the car and the racing program targets amateur drivers rather than professional racers found in categories like Carrera Cup. Ferrari anticipates fielding 18 to 20 cars on the grid for the inaugural 2025 season and indicates that a majority of these positions are already filled.
The five-round calendar is impressive, kicking off as a support category at the Bathurst 12 Hour endurance race. The series then joins the new SRO series at Phillip Island, Sydney Motorsport Park, and The Bend. A fifth event, organised independently by Ferrari, will also be held at Sydney Motorsport Park.
Should You Buy, Wait, or Rent/Invest?
For the individual considering a Ferrari in 2026, the decision is often less about practicality and more about passion. The 296 GTS is a benchmark in modern hybrid performance, bridging the gap between road-going luxury and track-level capability. However, the cost of ownership is significant—not just the purchase price, but the ongoing maintenance and specialised servicing required for such a high-performance vehicle.
Investing in a Ferrari is often seen as a luxury asset rather than a traditional investment. While early models like the 488 have seen appreciation, the market is volatile. Buyers should consider how the car aligns with their lifestyle and passion, as appreciation is not guaranteed. For those looking for a long-term passive investment, more traditional markets often offer a safer and more liquid option.
Should you buy or wait? The market is currently shaped by the transition to electric and hybrid drivetrains. While the 296 GTS is a pinnacle of this technology, older V8 models may see depreciation as the market shifts towards newer offerings. If you are targeting the most exclusive models, acquiring a Ferrari should be seen as acquiring a limited-edition collector’s item.
Cost Analysis: The price for a Ferrari 296 GTS starts in the region of $750,000 AUD, depending on optional extras and market demand. Financing options are available through Ferrari Financial Services, but interest rates and deposit requirements vary based on the buyer’s credit history and the specific loan terms. Buyers should consult with their local dealership for the most accurate pricing and financing options.
