First inveiled at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show and arriving just months after the new Quattroporte, the Ghibli represents Maserati’s first ever four-door saloon model. A short while ago, Prestige had a up-close-and-personal encounter with this magnificent car.
When it comes to my ideal car, I’ve always pictured something that I can drive every day, but at the same time, I also imagined something that would cater to my playful side in terms of just a bit of speed. The appearance has to be dynamic – not too sporty, though – and has that elegant touch that makes it perfect for any moment and any occasion. In short, something that offers remarkable driving experience and gracious design. It goes without saying by now, that those two qualities are the mainstays of the Maserati Ghibli.
I’ve heard about the Maserati Ghibli several times before and never had I thought that I would actually ride one – until last month, that is. The first impression that I got was that it looks smaller and shorter than the flagship Quattroporte. The body reflects a coupe-like philosophy through the four-door saloon concept, and there are strong feline hints found on the grille and headlights. I was told the design team was challenged to produce a saloon that emphasised its more dynamic driving characteristics through a more aggressive visual personality, yet still maintained discernible visual links with the Quattroporte.
Going inside, my eyes caught the unique dashboard design that perfectly matches its sportier and more youthful character without losing any of the luxury one would expect from a Maserati. At the same time, there’s a strong sporty design combined with spaciousness, as expected from an executive saloon. The company’s traditional craftsmanship is translated into the interior design thanks to the Poltrona Frau leather interior, combined with cutting-edge hi-tech additions. Luxury features added to enhance the driving experience include the Maserati Touch Control screen, reversing camera, and the 15-speaker Bowes & Wilkins audio system, as well as WLAN-based WiFi.
Though it is smaller and lighter than the flagship Quattroporte, the Ghibli delivers an arguably more focused, dynamic performance. Powered by a turbo-diesel V6 producing all the sound, refinement, and driving pleasure typical of Maserati while delivering fuel consumption over 47mpg (below 6 l/100km) on the NEDC combined cycle, ensured sensational experience as I drove around the city. It’s also noteworthy that the Ghibli is the first car in Maserati’s near-100 year history to use a diesel power unit. In keeping with Maserati traditions, it is the most powerful single-turbo 3-litre engine on the market, producing 275 Hp and 600 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm. Not only is it more powerful nad more exciting to drive, it is also more eco-friendly than ever.
Moving on, the eight-speed automatic transmission provides seamless comfort with fast gear shifting for hard acceleration. All the Ghibli models also deliver exquisite handling thanks to their perfectly balanced weight distribution, a double-wishbone front suspension, and a state-of-the-art five-link rear suspension. The car also bosts added security and all-weather assurance of all-wheel drive as well.
Time flew fast when you are behind the wheel, and as the journey neared its end, I would say that I was totally convinced that the Maserati Ghibli is made for those who love to celebrate everyday excitement. Because every journey, every ride may not be the same.
