2022 looks to be an exciting year for Ferrari fans with the revealing of two models taking place, the Purosangue SUV later this year and the 296 GTS, the reveal of which happened this morning.
As is often the case with drop-top Ferrari’s, very little has changed in the way of styling on the 296 GTB’s topless counterpart, styling revisions being limited chiefly to minor changes in order to accommodate the opening roof. The silhouettes of the 296 siblings are nigh on identical with the folding hardtop much akin to that of the SF90 Aperta’s. This means that the roof is stowed in a new bay within the engine compartment, just behind the seats.
For the 296 GTS, the 296’s rear buttresses have been resculptured somewhat and there is now a more prominent step between the roof and aerobridge spanning the width of the Berlinetta. Additionally, there is a new window at the bottom of the engine cover and the rear screen is adjustable, too, ensuring cabin comfort at high speeds when the roof is stowed away.
In terms of aerodynamics, Ferrari’s engineers have done their utmost to ensure that the airflow impact of the wing and buttresses is replicated. The tail still houses an active rear spoiler which increases downforce and stability at speed.
14 seconds is all it takes for the 296 GTS’ roof to open or close, and this can be done at speeds of up to 45 km/h. The roof essentially splits into two sections which then fold over the front of the engine – “thus maintaining the engine bay’s thermal dissipation characteristics and the balance of the overall design”.
The 296 GTS’ powertrain remains unchanged from that of it roofed sibling, the 481 kW 3,0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 and rear-mounted, 122 kW electric motor combining for a total output of 610 kW and 740 N.m. These impressive power figures result in a 0-100 km/h time of 2,9 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h, identical to the GTB, despite the additional 70 kg for a total dry weight of 1 540 kg.
The GTS can be had with the Assetto Fiorano package – a more track focused setup – which adds Multimatic adjustable shock absorbers, carbon fibre aero and trim elements and myriad weight-saving measures, along with high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres.
No pricing has been announced yet, but it goes without saying that the 296 GTB’s drafty sibling will command a premium over the coupé.
