Looking for the perfect mix of exhilaration, performance and style? The new Ferrari 296 GTS has all the answers

Muscat: The Middle East sports car market is thriving. Which is why, at times, buyers can feel a little overwhelmed. Especially in the popular sweet spot – the mid-rear-engine, two-seater convertible.

The trick is to choose a model that combines the concept of fun behind the wheel yet guarantees pure emotions not just when pushing the car to its limits, but in practical, everyday life. Sounds perfect, right?

Which brings us neatly to the latest evolution of Maranello’s two-seater Berlinetta spider – the Ferrari 296 GTS.  This latest offering from Maranello has all the above, and more.

Its new 663 cv 120° V6, coupled with an electric motor capable of delivering a further 122 kW (167 cv), is the first 6-cylinder engine installed on a road-going spider sporting the Prancing Horse badge, and ushers in a new V6 era that has deep roots in the marque’s unrivalled 75-year history.

Unleashing its class-leading 830 cv total power output to deliver previously unthinkable performance levels and an innovative, exhilarating and unique soundtrack – the 296 GTS sounds even more magnificent with the top down.

The 296 GTS’s plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system guarantees an incredibly usable car and cuts pedal response times to zero, while delivering a 25km range in all-electric eDrive mode. Its RHT (retractable hard top) take a mere 14 seconds to retract or deploy at speeds up to 45km/h. With the roof stowed it features a sleek, sporty design and with the roof up, the silhouette remains similar to the 296 GTB.

Sound-wise, the V6 engine creates a sense of unprecedented involvement even with the roof off, and marking the turning of a new page in Maranello’s berlinetta history.  The 296 GTS’s cabin raises the concept of the formal purity of the functional elements to new heights. Exclusive Italian leather trim to the seats and trim is further enhanced by the noble technical materials used on the functional components.

And of course, for the more competitive, race-minded owners, the 296 GTS is also available with the Assetto Fiorano package, which includes lightweight features and aero modifications.

Finally, for peace of mind, an extended seven-year maintenance programme is offered with the Ferrari 296 GTS and covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years or 120,000 km of the car’s life – added value that you don’t find with many premium automotive brands.