The power-retractable hardtop lives on with the new Ferrari 296 GTS.
According to Ferrari, the folding hardtop can be electronically raised or lowered in 14 seconds and be operated at speeds up to 45km/h.
The folding roof splits into two parts, and resides just ahead of the engine when down. Because of this, the engine cover now includes a window.
A height-adjustable rear glass screen helps to keep buffeting to a minimum when the top is down.
Like the 296 GTB, the GTS is powered by Ferrari’s new 3.0-litre turbocharged 120-degree V6 making 488kW at 8000rpm and 740Nm at 6250rpm.
The mid-mounted V6 is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, and sandwiched between these two items is a 122kW/315Nm electric motor.
In total the hybrid drivetrain makes a total of 610kW, and thanks to its 7.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack located on the floor behind the seats, the 296 GTS is capable of up to 25km of emissions-free motoring.
The coupe and convertible share the same 0-100km/h time of 2.9 seconds, but the GTS requires 7.6 seconds to hit the 200km/h barrier, a full 0.3s more than the GTB coupe. Top speed is said to be over 330km/h.
There are four drive modes available to the driver: the default Hybrid mode, pure electric eDrive which works at speeds up to 135km/h, Performance which keeps the V6 engine on at all times, and Qualify that provides the maximum level of performance at the expense of lower battery recharging.
The GTS rides on 20-inch alloy wheels matched with 245/35 tyres up front, and fat 305/35 rubber at the rear.
296 GTS Assetto Fiorano
As with the 296 GTB coupe, the 296 GTS is available with Assetto Fiorano package, which includes adjustable Multimatic shocks, carbon-fibre additions to the front bumper that generate an extra 10kg of downforce, and various carbon-fibre parts, including a new door panel, to reduce weight.
Assetto Fiorano buyers can also option Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2R track tyres, and an exclusive livery package inspired by the 250 Le Mans.
Keyword: 2023 Ferrari 296 GTS revealed