Ferrari 296 GT3 EVO Unveiled: Enhanced Aero, Reliability, and Performance for 2025

Maranello, Italy – Ferrari has announced the 296 GT3 EVO, a significant evolution of its triumphant GT racing car, set to debut in 2026. The new iteration focuses on enhanced aerodynamic efficiency, improved reliability, and optimized performance to maintain its competitive edge in the GT3 class. The 296 GT3 EVO addresses key areas identified after its initial debut in 2023, ensuring it remains a top contender in endurance races and championships worldwide.

Key Enhancements in the 296 GT3 EVO

The Ferrari 296 GT3 EVO incorporates several crucial improvements over its predecessor,targeting both performance and usability. These enhancements aim to provide a more competitive and user-friendly experience for both professional and amateur drivers.

• Aerodynamic Efficiency: Redesigned aero layout to improve downforce and reduce sensitivity to traffic.
• Reliability: Upgrades to cooling systems for intake air, gearbox, and engine compartment.
• Serviceability: Optimized quick closures for easier maintenance and faster repairs.
• Performance: Fine-tuned suspension and kinematics to accommodate various tire options.

Did You Know? The GT3 class is a set of regulations for grand tourer racing cars, as defined by the Fédération Internationale de l’automobile (FIA). These regulations aim to create a level playing field, allowing various manufacturers to compete with balanced performance.

Aerodynamic Overhaul for Enhanced Stability

A primary focus of the 296 GT3 EVO is its redesigned aerodynamic package. The front fascia features considerably larger flics in a double-storey arrangement, along with a flap to better channel lateral airflow. These changes aim to increase downforce and reduce the “Aero-Washout” affect, which caused a loss of downforce and increased tire wear in the previous model. According to Ferrari, this aero sensitivity particularly affected amateur drivers.

Benedicte Prioul, head of GT racing car development at Ferrari, emphasized the importance of aero stability, stating that the adjustments aim to “increase output and performance, and optimize the balance between the front and rear axles.” The new aero layout ensures more consistent performance, even in heavy traffic conditions.

Improved Serviceability and Maintenance

Ferrari has also prioritized improving the serviceability and maintenance of the 296 GT3 EVO. The EVO version incorporates optimized quick closures for all attachments, including the rear diffuser. This allows mechanics to quickly change parts, such as the rear diffuser after contact, improving service and maintenance efficiency. These enhancements reduce downtime during races and make the car more practical for customer teams.

Pro Tip: Quick closures are essential in endurance racing, where every second counts. Efficient maintenance and repair processes can significantly impact a team’s overall performance and race outcome.

Mechanical and Cooling System upgrades

In addition to the aerodynamic and serviceability improvements, the 296 GT3 EVO features several mechanical upgrades. The suspension and kinematics have been fine-tuned to accommodate different tire options from various providers. This allows customer teams to quickly find the optimal setup for different racetracks and conditions.

Cooling system upgrades address critical temperature issues experienced in hot conditions. Improvements have been made to the cooling of the intake air, gearbox, engine compartment ventilation, and power steering. These enhancements ensure consistent performance and reliability, even in demanding racing environments.

engine Remains Unchanged,Focus on Drivability

The 296 GT3 EVO retains the same V6 biturbo engine with nearly three liters of displacement and a 120-degree bank angle. though, new gear and axle translations have been introduced for specific racetracks, such as Daytona and Le Mans, to better balance high speeds and top-end performance. Moreover, driving comfort has been improved with optimized air circulation in the cockpit and simplified switch operations.

Availability and pricing

The Ferrari 296 GT3 EVO will be available as a complete car or as an upgrade kit for existing 296 GT3 models. While the current GT3 model was priced around 650,000 euros plus taxes, the EVO version is expected to be priced at well over 700,000 euros. The price for the upgrade kit has not yet been disclosed. The EVO version is scheduled to make its debut in 2026, likely at the IMSA season opener in Daytona in late January.

Ferrari’s GT Racing Success

Ferrari’s GT racing program has achieved significant success, with over 200 racing vehicles delivered within three years and numerous championship titles and victories, including the 24-hour classics at the Nürburgring and Daytona. According to sports director Antonello Coletta, the 296 GT3 is the most successful customer sports car in Ferrari’s history, with around 140 victories in three years.

What aspects of the Ferrari 296 GT3 EVO do you find most appealing? How do you think these improvements will impact Ferrari’s competitiveness in GT racing?

Share your thoughts on the Ferrari 296 GT3 EVO in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this article with fellow racing enthusiasts.