2019 Maserati Ghibli

Maserati relaunches the Ghibli MY18 with a subtle restyling and a rich array of additional hi-tech features. Two distinctive trims are included in the model range, each using their own distinctive voice to bring out the luxurious elegance and race-bred performance unique to Maserati.     

After four years of remarkable success in the international markets, the Ghibli’s exterior has been respectfully restyled to emphasize both its elegance and its sportiness - the pillars of its Maserati signature personality. Faithful to its DNA, the Ghibli MY18 range offers unmistakable class, top-quality performance and a stylish yet comfortable driving experience.

Since its debut in 2014, the Italian sports sedan has been delivered to more than 70,000 customers in 70 countries (up to and including the first semester of 2017), making it the best-selling Maserati vehicle in history. With the new Ghibli, which makes its World Premiere at the 2017 Frankfurt Motorshow, this success story can continue on well into the future. 

The Ghibli shares its core architecture – chassis, suspension layout, V6 engines and eight-speed ZF automatic transmission – with the flagship Quattroporte, but is 293 mm shorter and 50 kg lighter.

The car’s perfect weight distribution, front double-wishbone/rear multi-link suspension and standard Limited-Slip Differential (LSD), guarantee the razor-sharp road handling for which genuine Maserati models are famed. The five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and integrated Advanced Driving Assistance Systems ensure total peace of mind for both driver and passengers. 

The new trim strategy, already introduced by the Quattroporte in 2017, enriches the existing Ghibli range with two distinctive trims, GranLusso and GranSport. Both are available as an upgrade of all powertrain versions - Ghibli 350 hp, Diesel, S and S Q4 - and will be priced at the same level across the range.

Ghibli GranLusso and GranSport are immediately recognisable thanks to their distinct exterior features and exclusive interiors. The exterior design stands out for its coupé-like attitude as well as for several unique features: the distinctive C-pillar bearing the iconic Saetta logo, the frameless doors, the pronounced grille that resembles iconic Maserati cars of the ‘50s, and the range-standard quadruple chromium-plated exhaust pipes.

The addition of the Ghibli GranLusso and GranSport to the range drove the Design Centre in Turin to give each trim a clear identity, primarily by restyling the front and rear bumpers. While visually discreet, this aerodynamically optimised changes accentuate the original’s sporty yet luxurious style.

The aerodynamic efficiency of the restyled Ghibli has improved by 7%, reducing the drag coefficient to 0.29 from 0.31 in 2017.   

All petrol versions of the Ghibli were manufactured by Ferrari in Maranello and feature the acclaimed Euro 6 homologated Twin Turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine with Auto Start-Stop, in conjunction with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

The top-range Ghibli S and S Q4 versions now deliver 430 hp and 580 Nm peak torque, 20 hp and 30 Nm more than the MY17 car. The increased power output gives the Maserati sports sedan a top speed of 286 km/h and better acceleration. The new Ghibli S accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds (MY17: 5.0 seconds), while the Ghibli S Q4, with the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, needs only 4.7 seconds (previously 4.8 seconds). 

The Ghibli Diesel with its Euro 6-compliant 3.0-litre V6 engine – exclusively developed by Maserati in collaboration with VM Motori – produces a power output of 275 hp, among the best in its class.

Ghibli and Quattroporte are the first Maserati models to adopt the Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC) system by Bosch, which helps to prevent (rather than simply correct) vehicle instability, providing enhanced active safety, improved driving dynamics and an even more thrilling performance.

The introduction of Electric Power Steering (EPS) is another first for Maserati. This improves the car’s handling and comfort, better supports the driving modes and enables the newly-introduced active functions of the Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS), while retaining the classically Maserati razor-sharp steering feel.

A new ADAS package is optionally available in the restyled Ghibli. In addition to the existing features, it includes functions like Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition.

GranLusso & GranSport: two distinct souls of Ghibli

The baseline Ghibli and the new Ghibli GranLusso share the same design features while the Ghibli GranSport boasts a subtly different exterior that underlines its sportier character.

The front bumper incorporates a larger grille with a ‘sharknose’ profile and integrated chrome bars. This concave grille is inspired by the Alfieri Concept and adds a three-dimensional effect to the car’s frontal aspect.

The air duct has also been restyled for MY18. Wide open and more linear on the Ghibli and Ghibli GranLusso, it features a sportier layout on the Ghibli GranSport with two wings virtually supporting the grille, separating the central splitter from the side air ducts. This design visually accentuates the width of the car, conveying an extra sense of stability from the front.

The headlights have maintained the same contour. The Ghibli GranLusso and GranSport utilise Adaptive full LED headlights developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, while the baseline model uses Bi-Xenon technology.

The new Ghibli GranLusso reinterprets the concept of luxury in a sports sedan by enhancing the exterior finish and improving on-board comfort for both driver and passengers. This most elegant expression of the Ghibli uses exclusive materials and special features in the finest tradition of Italian craftsmanship. Externally, it is distinguished by its Adaptive full LED headlights, chrome inserts on the front bumper, GranLusso badge at the base of the front wing, body-colour side skirts, black brake calipers and 19” Poseidone alloy wheels.

The Ermenegildo Zegna Silk interior features patented mulberry silk inserts on the seats, doors panels, roof lining and ceiling light fixture. The tailored seat details and the label on the sun visors, complemented by a Radica open-pore wood trim and wood-finished leather steering wheel, make this trim unique and exclusive, beautifully epitomising the GranLusso soul.

This uniquely luxurious trim includes Comfort seats with extensive 12-way power adjustment as standard, as well as power-adjustable steering wheel and foot pedals, parking sensors, an electrically lockable passenger glove box and new Soft Close Doors.

The Ghibli GranSport takes its inspiration from the legendary racing heritage of Maserati. This specific trim was conceived to meet the needs of customers seeking a sportier expression of a high-end sedan in the segment.

Externally, the GranSport features Adaptive full LED headlights and is also recognisable for the Black Piano inserts on the front bumper, the GranSport badge on the front wing, body-colour side skirts, blue inserts on all Trident and Saetta logos, red brake calipers and, last but not least, the 20” machine-polished Urano alloy wheels.

The Sport 12-way power full leather seats and Sport steering wheel create an inspiring mix for the driving aficionado. The interior of the Ghibli GranSport also features standard gearshift paddles and Inox sport foot pedals. The Ghibli and Ghibli GranSport can be further customised with an Exterior Carbon Package for an even more emphatic message about Ghibli’s racing heritage. It covers the external door mirrors, B- and C-pillar covers and door handles on the base trim, as well as the front splitter and rear spoiler on the GranSport. 

New Maserati Ghibli

The exterior restyling of the Ghibli underlines the clear distinction between the new GranLusso and GranSport while improving the aerodynamic efficiency.    

The Ghibli looks as elegant and sporty, fresh and extraordinary as the day it made its World Premiere in the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show. Its design is a real statement in the premium sedan segment, combining a coupé-like philosophy with interior comfort second to none. The Maserati Design Centre took all this into consideration, before beginning the restyle.

The designers in Turin interpreted the restyling of the new GranLusso and GranSport trims separately for each one. “We wanted to distinguish between luxury and sportiness more clearly, and to give a double soul to the exterior of the car”, says Giovanni Ribotta, Maserati Head of Exterior Design.

The restyling was focused mainly on the front and the rear of the car. The new front bumper embraces a larger grille with a ‘shark nose’ profile, chrome bars and a chrome insert on the upper side. The concave grille is clearly inspired by the Alfieri Concept, adding a three-dimensional effect to the frontal view of the car.

The front bumper’s lower panel has been restyled to underline the character of each of the two new trim levels. The air duct is wide open and more linear on the Ghibli and Ghibli GranLusso, emphasising their luxurious style.

The Ghibli GranSport presents a sportier, more exaggerated design that is in line with the restyling on the MY18 GranTurismo. Its central splitter is embraced by two diagonally arranged wings that virtually support the grille, separating the splitter from the air ducts on both sides. The specific design of the Ghibli GranSport bumper visually accentuates the width of the car, conveying a sense of augmented stability.

The rear bumper is elegantly redesigned to give a sharper look to the new Ghibli compared to that of the previous model year. The baseline model and the GranLusso share the same structure that better supports the central diffuser, providing an extra sense of stability.

The Ghibli GranSport’s sportier new rear bumper opens wider towards its sides, visually accentuating the width of the car. The lower part is less linear, highlighting in the cutouts that accommodate the Ghibli’s double exhaust tips. 

Ghibli’s design isn’t just about looks. The restyling contributed to a substantial improvement of the car’s aerodynamic efficiency. The new drag coefficient of the latest Ghibli is as low as 0.29 - a 7% improvement on the 0.31 value of the MY17 car.   

Adaptive full LED headlights 

The new Ghibli GranLusso and Ghibli GranSport now feature Adaptive full LED headlights as standard for low and high beam, parking and turn lights and Daytime Running Lights (DRL), alongside Static Bending Lights and automatic height regulation.

Compared to Bi-Xenon headlamps, LED technology offers 20% better visibility, 32% cooler light and headlights that last twice as long. The full LED headlights illuminate the road as far as 195 metres ahead – 55 metres further than equivalent Bi-Xenon lights.

The Adaptive full LED headlights, fitted as standard on the Ghibli GranLusso and Ghibli GranSport, include a front camera that supports the Matrix-adaptive High Beam. This function can create light ‘tunnels’ by deactivating individual LEDs in the relevant zone, ‘cutting out’ the area around the vehicles and allowing Ghibli drivers to keep high beam on without dazzling oncoming drivers.

Ghibli’s Adaptive full LED headlights include the Adaptive Front Lighting System, which interacts with different vehicle parameters and activates one of four lighting scenarios: ‘Town’ (< 50km/h), ‘Country’ (50-110km/h), ‘Motorway’ mode (>110 km/h) and Weather mode.

The Adaptive full LED headlights subtly revamp the exterior look of the new Ghibli, thanks to the restyled Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and a three-blade design inspired by the wing air ducts, a Maserati signature.

The Adaptive full LED headlights fitted in the new Ghibli have been developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting.

GranLusso, GranSport and optional packages

The new Ghibli GranLusso stands apart thanks to its Adaptive full LED headlights, chrome front bumper inserts, GranLusso badge at the base of the front wing, body-colour side skirts, black brake calipers and 19” Poseidone alloy wheels.

Celebrating Maserati’s racing heritage, the Ghibli GranSport also features Adaptive full LED headlights, but is distinguished by its sportier front and rear bumper design with Black Piano inserts, GranSport front wing badges, body-colour side skirts, blue inserts on all Trident and Saetta logos, red brake calipers and 20” machine-polished Urano alloy wheels.

Ten aluminium rims in eight different designs, ranging from 18 to 21-inch, are available for the Ghibli range. 

Zegna silk or cockpit-like interior  

The elegant interiors of the new Ghibli GranLusso and Ghibli GranSport can be upgraded with features that are even further tailored to individual tastes.

The Ghibli entered the High-End E-segment in 2013 with its tangibly superior cabin craftsmanship. It also set itself apart with a unique, cockpit-inspired dashboard design that perfectly matched its driver-orientated character, without compromising on refinement and sophistication.

With the introduction of the GranLusso and GranSport, the interior of the Ghibli has been adapted to emphasise either luxury or racing performance, the two essential elements in the DNA of every Maserati.

The Ghibli’s interior is built around an intuitive driver interface that is uncluttered and user-friendly. The instrument panel features large analogue gauges for the tachometer and speedometer, alongside a 7” TFT display. The central console incorporates the driving modes’ buttons alongside the gearshift, while other on-board settings can be adjusted via the Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC+) at the centre of the dashboard, or on the steering wheel controls for the 7" TFT display.

The infotainment system of the Ghibli, introduced in the MY17, is based on a high resolution 8.4” capacitive touch screen and offers compatibility with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mirroring functions. The central lower console’s rotary knob is a high quality forged aluminium component offering intuitive control of audio volume and other infotainment system functions. The lid and the smartphone storage compartment have a simple, user-friendly design.

The Ghibli provides class-leading front legroom and, despite its coupé-like silhouette, comfortable head and leg room for all occupants.

The interior packaging also incorporates 60/40 folding rear seats and 500 litres of luggage capacity alongside the practical, climate-controlled central console compartment, large door pockets and an electrically lockable passenger glove box.

A large central console between the front seats features two cupholders, a 12V power socket, USB and aux-in sockets and a compartment for mobile phones.

The driver’s seat in the Ghibli offers 6-way electric adjustment, while the GranLusso and GranSport trims both have standard 12-way power front seats.

The rear seats can accommodate three people, providing optimised lateral support and guaranteed comfort even on longer journeys. The foldable central armrest houses two cup holders and a storage box, while the rear seats are equipped with ISOFIX fittings to securely anchor child seats.

GranLusso featuring Ermenegildo Zegna Silk interiors

The interior of the GranLusso trim, an upgrade for all powertrain versions of the Ghibli, is further enhanced by the exclusive Ermenegildo Zegna Silk, with its mulberry silk inserts, Radica open-pore wood trim on the dashboard and the wood-finished leather steering wheel. The trim includes a Harman Kardon Premium Sound system, power-adjustable foot pedals and steering wheel, an electric rear sunblind, the newly-introduced Soft Close Doors and an electrically lockable passenger glove box.

The Ermenegildo Zegna Silk interior combines fine-grain leather with 100% natural fibre mulberry silk inserts on the seats, door panels, roof lining, sunshades and ceiling light fixture. The silk, always anthracite in colour, can be combined with three different shades of luxurious fine leather: black, tan, or red.

The silk, an inherently sophisticated material, is further accentuated here by the hand-stitched Maserati macro-chevron weave. On the door panel, the matching salt-and-pepper silk jersey material is enhanced by alternating rib embroidery.

As for the seating, the extra fine-grain leather with contrasting light grey stitching has a central silk insert with a micro-chevron weave of vertical rolls on the central seat and backrest area, within which the central roll, with leather tapes on the sides, incorporates a special macro-chevron weave. This creates a three-dimensional feel and technical look.

On the door panels, the central parts are covered with Zegna silk jersey and embellished by a diagonal roll pattern, with tone-on-tone ornamental stitching and alternating rib embroideries. The same fabric is used to cover the car's roof lining and sunshades.

The interior’s sophisticated, luxury finish is also apparent in the headrests, which feature an embroidered Trident emblem and contrast stitching. This unique and exclusive silk is made by the Zegna wool mill in Trivero, Italy, using a patented process.

GranSport: a reflection of Maserati’s racing heritage

The Ghibli GranSport authentically reflects the legendary racing heritage of Maserati. The interior immediately transmits a sense of passion through an array of exclusive elements, like the 12-way power Sport leather seats, the Sport steering wheel fitted with aluminium gearshift paddles, and the Inox Sport pedals. The dashboard’s wood trim is finished in high-gloss Black Piano.

The 12-way power-adjustable Sport seats with integrated anti-whiplash headrests come as standard exclusively in the GranSport, ensuring better body support in dynamic driving. 

The Interior Carbon Package, which is optionally available for the baseline and GranSport trims, gives the Ghibli interior the feel of an exclusive, lightweight racing cockpit. It includes a Sport steering wheel with carbon inserts, carbon gearshift paddles and carbon trims and door sills. 

State-of-the art infotainment system

Ghibli’s infotainment system includes a high resolution 8.4” multi touch screen and a user-friendly rotary knob in the central console.

A high resolution 8.4” screen with multi-touch function is the dominant element in the central dashboard, featuring a clean, floating design. Embraced by the central air ducts with cut-off chrome inserts, the head unit bezel bears a Ghibli logo. The Maserati Touch Control Plus (MTC+) infotainment system offers great interaction as well as compatibility with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring functions.

The 8.4” high-resolution capacitive touch screen gives the user full control of almost all on-board equipment, including the radio and optional navigation system, simply and intuitively. It also has a standard Bluetooth connection for external sources like mobile phones and Apple devices.

The DVD reader is replaced by a phone storage compartment containing an SD card reader, USB socket and aux-in port, with which the user can play music, watch films or even view images. The menus, which are always available from the icons displayed at the bottom of the screen, allow you to configure the car's main settings.

The DVD reader is replaced by a phone storage compartment containing an SD card reader, USB socket and aux-in port, with which the user can play music, watch films or even view images. The menus, which are always available from the icons displayed at the bottom of the screen, allow you to configure the car's main settings.

The central, lower console features a forged aluminium rotary knob that provides intuitive control of the audio volume and the infotainment system’s other functions.

SIRI (Apple® function) Smart Personal Assistant

Thanks to the Apple chip contained in MTC+, the SIRI Smart Personal Assistant can be used in all Ghibli models. Based on Bluetooth technology, SIRI allows users to perform iOS-connected device tasks and make requests using voice commands. For this in-car application and for related safety reasons, responses that contain visual information or require user interaction will be blocked while driving and SIRI will only respond with suitable audio feedback and voice commands.

Harman Kardon Premium Sound System

A standard 8-speaker, 280 W audio system by Harman Kardon is available on the baseline Ghibli and the Ghibli GranSport.

The luxury-orientated Ghibli GranLusso S and S Q4 have adopted the Harman Kardon Premium Sound System with 10 speakers and a 900 W amplifier.

The extra 300 watts compared to the standard system, the black-finish grille pattern on the door’s woofer accentuated by the Harman Kardon logo, and the new 12-channel amplifier, together with a high-performance subwoofer, represent the best trade-off between sound clarity and performance.

Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System

For those who insist on the finest hi-fi equipment, Maserati offers the Bowers & Wilkins Premium Surround Sound System, with 15 speakers, a 1280 W amplifier and perfectly-configured QuantumLogic™ Surround.

The Bowers & Wilkins Premium Surround Sound System features a central 100 mm Kevlar cone for midrange sound and three 25 mm tweeters at the centre and sides of the dashboard. The front doors house a 165 mm woofer and 100 mm Kevlar cone midrange speaker, while the rear doors each carry a 165 mm Kevlar woofer and 25 mm tweeter. The rear shelf has two 100 mm Kevlar midranges and a 315x200 mm subwoofer.

The technical Clari-Fi function, exclusive to the Bowers & Wilkins system, is an advanced solution capable of restoring the artistic details lost in digitally-compressed songs. Clari-Fi scans all types of compressed audio files for lost music details. It supports MP3, AAC, Satellite Radio, Playback and Streaming Music Services, and intelligently corrects waveform deficiencies based on existing music information and audio source quality.

The system perfectly reproduces every nuance of the sound with the utmost dynamic purity.

As the QuantumLogic™ Surround Sound system processes each track, individual elements such as musical instruments, voices and the interior's reverb are identified, separated and processed into a surround sound field which is exceptionally realistic, precise and creates a perfectly defined audio image.

Wi-Fi vehicle hotspot

The Ghibli can contain optional WLAN technology that effectively turns the car into a Wi-Fi hotspot. Owners can place a SIM card into the WLAN router to receive Internet signals, which can be resent around the car as a wireless Internet signal. Up to three devices can be connected simultaneously.

Climate control with Air Quality Sensor

The Ghibli is equipped with Air Quality Sensor, a feature that substantially improves the comfort of both the driver and passenger. The system combines an intelligent sensor and a signal analysis system that calculates the external pollution levels and prevents polluted air and toxic gases from entering the cabin.

Keyless Entry

In the world of Maserati, small details are everything - right down to the design of the aluminium key, which reflects the Ghibli style and incorporates Keyless Go technology. The standard Keyless Entry function enables you to open the doors or boot via the handles, without touching the key fob. Once inside the car, all it takes is a press of the ignition button to bring the engine to rousing life.

Soft Close Doors

Soft Close Doors are optionally available on the new Ghibli and come as standard on the GranLusso. They quietly draw each of the four doors to a close when left slightly open.

The system uses an electric actuator and a sensor that detects when the door is ajar. Once a door is within millimetres of the lock, the system closes it securely and quietly. This increases the car’s safety and comfort, particularly for children in the back seat. It is also activated whenever the door is manually closed, ensuring it is properly shut.

Electrically lockable passenger glovebox

A Valet Mode* is available on the touch screen menu that electrically locks the glovebox on the passenger’s side. While in Valet Mode, the glovebox is only accessible by inserting a four-digit PIN. 

Power boot lid with hands-free mode

This feature, optional on the GranLusso models, makes the travel experience in your Ghibli even easier. Thanks to electric actuators and a motorised latch, it’s possible to open or close the lightweight boot lid automatically. This is done either via the key fob, pressing a button on the interior door panel or by simply moving your foot under the rear bumper. Accessing the boot this way is particularly welcome when your hands are full. To ensure security, it only works when the system detects the presence of your key.

* available only on left hand drive cars 

Power upgrade to 430 hp

Maranello built V6 Twin Turbo petrol engines

The two Maserati V6 Twin Turbo engines, featuring the latest GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) technology, form the beating heart of the Ghibli.

The V6 petrol engines, designed by Maserati Powertrain, are manufactured by Ferrari in Maranello exclusively for Maserati. These latest-generation engines are powerful, exciting to drive and eco-friendly, thanks to the Auto Start-Stop technology and Euro 6 homologation.

The 2979 cc V6 petrol engine shares part of its technology with the 3.0-litre V6 engine available on the Quattroporte. It uses the same cylinder architecture, GDI and combustion technology, along with two low-inertia parallel turbochargers and four continuous camshaft phasers.

A characteristic feature of this Maserati engine family is the 200 bar direct fuel injection system. This very high pressure helps atomise the fuel, thus improving the fuel-air mixture and optimising combustion at higher engine speeds.

The Ghibli has two intercoolers – one to feed each of the turbochargers – mounted low on either side of the main radiator to catch a constant supply of fresh, cool air.

Maserati Powertrain has implemented on-demand ancillaries, with a variable-displacement oil pump that works under electrical control for improved consumption and performance.

The Ghibli also features an ICE (Increased Control & Efficiency) mode, aimed at reducing consumption, emissions and noise. It delivers softer pedal response for smooth driving, cancels the turbocharger’s over-boost function and keeps the exhaust’s Sport flaps closed up to 5,000 rpm. It also adjusts the gear changes to make them softer and slower, and reduces torque at each gear’s take-up point. 

Maserati Soundtrack

In the best Maserati tradition, the sound and performance of the Ghibli’s exhaust system are controlled by pneumatic valves in the pipes emerging from each bank to maintain the rich aural tradition of the brand.

In Normal mode, the bypass valves are closed up to 3,000 rpm to give a comfortable and discreet engine sound, which emerges through four sport exhaust tips.

With Sport mode active – which also sharpens the vehicle’s handling parameters – the valves open, providing the shortest, highest-energy route for the exhaust gases. The result is optimised engine performance and that unmistakably resonant, spine-tingling sound.

Ghibli S and S Q4 - 430 hp V6 Twin Turbo

The range-topping Ghibli S and S Q4 versions deliver 430 hp and 580 Nm peak torque, respectively 20 hp and 30 Nm more than in the MY17 cars. The maximum engine speed is 6,500 rpm, yet it delivers its peak torque between 2,250 rpm and 4,000 rpm.

The increased power output gives the Maserati sports sedan a top speed of 286 km/h and better acceleration: the new Ghibli S makes it to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds (MY17 in 5.0 seconds) and the Ghibli S Q4, with the intelligent Q4 All-Wheel Drive system, in just 4.7 seconds (previously 4.8 seconds).

The power increase has not affected the fuel consumption of the top Ghibli versions: average consumption is 9.6 litres/100 km for the Ghibli S and 9.7 litres/100 km for the Ghibli S Q4 in the New European Combined Cycle.   

Ghibli - 350 hp V6 Twin Turbo

The turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine available on the Ghibli delivers 350 hp at 5,000 rpm and 500 Nm torque from 1,750-4,500 rpm in over-boost mode. Fuel consumption is just 8.9lt/100 km and CO2 emissions are just 207 g/km. The 350 hp Ghibli is capable of accelerating to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 267 km/h.

Ghibli Diesel - 275 hp V6

The first diesel engine in Maserati history is a 3.0-litre V6 with Common-Rail direct injection exclusively developed by Maserati in collaboration with VM Motori. The Euro 6 homologated unit includes AdBlue technology and Auto Start-Stop to reduce overall fuel and CO2 emissions by up to 6%. An Active Sound System gives the V6 engine a thrilling exhaust growl.

This engine produces best-in-class power output of 275 hp, while still achieving a CO2 emissions of 158 g/km. Combined fuel consumption of 5.9 litres/100 km and a 70-litre tank ensure a long range of over 1,000 kilometres, making the Ghibli Diesel a car that really serves customer needs for long-distance travel in style and comfort.

The Ghibli Diesel boasts a maximum torque of 600 Nm between 2,000 and 2,600 rpm with over-boost turbocharging. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h.

The state-of-the-art engine includes AdBlue technology and Euro 6 homologation, as well as a Common-Rail direct injection with system pressure of up to 2,000 bar.

Multiple injections reduce fuel consumption and noise levels while also improving responsiveness and agility. In addition, the variable geometry turbocharger with variable-nozzle turbine allows the engine to deliver both high output and high torque from low revolutions.

The Auto Start-Stop system generates overall fuel and CO2 emission efficiencies of up to 6%. This function is automatically deactivated in Sport mode and when the driver turns the stability control off. It can also be deactivated from the cluster display controls using the steering wheel buttons.

Active Sound System

Thanks to Maserati Active Sound, the Ghibli Diesel sounds just as good as the famed Maserati petrol engines. Two sound actuators, fitted near the exhaust tailpipes, accentuate the engine’s most distinctive tones and modulate them according to the current driving style. The actuator transforms the exhaust tones into an unmistakable sound, full-bodied yet restrained in Normal mode, while much more aggressive in Sport mode. 

Eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive

All versions of the Ghibli are fitted with the same eight-speed ZF automatic transmission used on the Quattroporte and Levante models. 

The transmission caters for all demands, from comfort to fast gear shifting, and from minimised fuel consumption to low noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). There are five dedicated shift modes: Auto Normal, Auto Sport, Manual Normal, Manual Sport and ICE mode.

Auto Normal provides smooth gearshifts at low revs to maximise ride comfort and minimise fuel consumption. When a sportier style of driving is recognised, upshifts automatically take place at higher engine speeds. In Auto Sport mode, gearshifts are take place in under 100 milliseconds and occur at higher revs. This guarantees a near-seamless flow of exhilarating high power and a far more sporty driving style.

The car also recognizes a variety of conditions, such as uphill or downhill driving, hard braking or driving through a corner, and selects the optimal gear and the most suitable gearshift style accordingly. The transmission can also be controlled manually by selecting the M button on the transmission tunnel.

Manual Normal mode allows the driver to change gear using the optional paddles behind the steering wheel or the lever on the central tunnel. The system automatically shifts up a gear as the red line approaches, and shifts down in the same way.

In Manual Sport mode, the driver takes full control of the transmission: the overboost function is activated for maximum performance, gearshifts are quicker and sharper, and the engine can be pushed to the limit without the system intervening. The only automatic feature is downshifting if the revs drop too low.

I.C.E. mode (Increased Control & Efficiency) ensures better control in all weather conditions, the most comfortable and quietest engine response, and minimal fuel consumption.

Manual Normal mode allows the driver to change gear using the optional paddles behind the steering wheel or the lever on the central tunnel. The system automatically shifts up a gear as the red line approaches, and shifts down in the same way.

In Manual Sport mode, the driver takes full control of the transmission: the overboost function is activated for maximum performance, gearshifts are quicker and sharper, and the engine can be pushed to the limit without the system intervening. The only automatic feature is downshifting if the revs drop too low.

I.C.E. mode (Increased Control & Efficiency) ensures better control in all weather conditions, the most comfortable and quietest engine response, and minimal fuel consumption.

Ghibli S Q4: AWD the Maserati way

As an option, the Ghibli S can be fitted with Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive to maximise traction on every surface and give the sports sedan genuine all-weather capability. The Ghibli S Q4 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds, slightly faster than the rear-wheel drive Ghibli S, while maintaining almost identical fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Its top speed is 286 km/h.

Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive has been conceived to convey a typical Maserati rear-wheel driving experience, even on low grip road conditions. The system architecture is based on an electronically-controlled multi-plate wet clutch, installed into a transfer case linked by a drive shaft to the front axle.

The system acts by transferring traction to the front wheels on demand and with an immediate response. In normal driving conditions, it provides 100% of the engine torque to the rear wheels; this also optimises fuel consumption and emissions. In low-grip driving conditions or in the case of a loss of grip at the rear axle (acceleration from zero or very high cornering speed) the system reacts instantaneously, transferring the necessary traction to the front wheels.

If traction is lost due to excessively fast cornering, sudden acceleration or very low grip on the rear axle, the system is capable of altering the torque split from 100% rear-wheel drive to equal distribution (50%-50%) between the front and rear wheels in a mere 150 milliseconds.

When conditions require it, Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, with its variable torque control, is activated constantly and continuously. While the change in torque split is imperceptible, for the keenest drivers a monitoring system is integrated in the 7” colour information cluster display which shows the front-to-rear distribution in real time.

While driving, a sophisticated algorithm specifically developed by Maserati is capable of monitoring an extensive range of dynamic vehicle parameters in real time. These include wheel speed, steering and yaw angle, power output, speed, braking action and EPS, as well as wheel grip versus driving style.

By processing all this data, Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive can maximise a dedicated grip profile for each individual wheel, creating the optimal vehicle dynamic management to suit any given road condition, at any time. This strategy has the sole objective of optimising the balance between driving pleasure and safety.

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)

The Ghibli is the only car in its class to use a standard mechanical LSD in all of its versions to deliver the best inherent traction in every driving situation. The bevel-drive asymmetric unit offers 35% lock-up under power and 45% under release.

The rear differential is driven via a two-piece, 80 mm-thick light-weight steel prop shaft with two constant velocity joints and a head rubber coupling, which runs through a cross member-mounted rubber bearing for lower NVH levels without compromising rigidity.

Grand touring in absolute comfort

The Ghibli chassis shares its core architecture with the Quattroporte and has been precisely designed to meet the demands of high-power performance and luxurious comfort from Maserati buyers while allowing for safety aspects.

Based around a rigid and extremely secure steel cell, it uses an array of different steel and aluminium alloys, each given a precise task to maximise strength, minimise weight and retain the sports sedan’s perfect 50:50 weight distribution (51:49 front/rear for Ghibli Diesel and S Q4).

The front of the chassis features an aluminium casting with a reinforced cross-strut which helps deliver outstanding rigidity in every direction, while the rear is made from rolled steel. Accordingly, all four doors and the bonnet are made of aluminium. Ultra-light weight magnesium is used in the dashboard’s cross strut.

Front Double-Wishbone / Rear Multi-Link Suspension

Double-wishbone suspension layouts are a race-bred tradition at Maserati. The Ghibli continues with this heritage but also incorporates some new technologies. Utilising a suspension layout and software system that has already proven its qualities in the Quattroporte, the Ghibli features high-mounted all-aluminium double wishbones at the front to guarantee light and precise handling characteristics.

The system’s geometry has delivered a quadrilateral architecture, which has enabled Maserati’s handling team to deliver steering that is precise, communicative and comfortable.

The rear suspension employs a five-bar multi-link system with four aluminium suspension arms, and has achieved the conflicting targets of executive ride comfort and sports performance. The Ghibli’s suspension package is based around a fixed-rate damping system to control the movement of its steel springs and anti-roll bars.

The Ghibli is also available with the option of the Skyhook suspension system, where all four dampers can now be electronically controlled independently of each other.

The default mode for Skyhook prioritises comfort, becoming more athletic if the driver presses the suspension button. This extra damping stiffness, which was developed in both extreme test scenarios and on the racetrack, pushes the Ghibli’s handling to even higher levels.  

Essentially, it drastically reduces both longitudinal and lateral load transfers and minimises body roll to bring out the sportiest side of the car’s character. The computer system in control of the Skyhook dampers monitors an enormous array of parameters, including speed and lateral and longitudinal acceleration, individual wheel movements, body movement and damper dynamics. Adjusting to suit the suspension mode chosen by the driver, the system delivers the perfect damping mode for each wheel almost instantly. Skyhook suspension is included as standard in all the new GranSport versions.

Brembo Dual Cast Brakes

The 350 hp Ghibli and the Ghibli Diesel cars feature four-piston brakes with fixed alloy Brembo calipers and 345x28 mm ventilated discs at the front. Floating calipers with 330x22 mm ventilated discs brake the rear.

All four Ghibli GranSport versions are fitted with Dual Cast 360x32 mm ventilated and cross-drilled brake discs with six-piston fixed alloy Brembo calipers on the front axle, while the rear axle is fitted with four-piston fixed alloy 345x28 mm Brembo calipers. In the EU Market, all Ghibli S and Ghibli S Q4 versions are equipped with Dual Cast Brembo Braking System.

Dual Cast technology, pioneered by Maserati, combines the strength of cast iron with the lightness of aluminium to reduce unsprung mass and, therefore, increase handling prowess.

These brakes have a large swept area, highly efficient cooling and are designed for consistent performance in sports driving situations.

From 100 km/h, the Ghibli S and S Q4 can reach a standstill in 35 metres. Since high-performance stopping power is only one measure of overall braking performance, the collaboration with Brembo also concentrated on optimising the acoustic comfort of the Ghibli’s braking systems.

Besides being powerful, the Maserati brake calipers have also always added a significant touch of style. Ghibli and Ghibli Diesel have standard matt-grey calipers while the Ghibli S & S Q4 calipers are matt black. The Ghibli GranLusso calipers stand out for their striking black paint, while the rousing passion of the GranSport versions is captured by their red-paint finish. The calipers are also available in blue, painted silver and polished silver. 

Electric Power Steering (EPS)

Newly introduced in the Ghibli and Quattroporte models, EPS improves the car’s handling and comfort while better supporting the driving modes and enabling the new Advanced Driving Assistance Systems that are optionally available in the new Ghibli range. 

Compared to hydraulic power steering, EPS is lighter, simpler, lower-maintenance and easier to fine-tune – without affecting engine power. Electric Power Steering retains the razor-sharp handling typical of every Maserati while offering improved filtering of road irregularities and peace of mind while parking or carrying out low-speed manoeuvres.

With an electronically-controlled electric actuator on the rack and pinion steering, EPS has better overall response and its functionality can be tuned accurately to exceed any requirement.  

New Advanced Driving Assistance Systems

The new, active ADAS, optionally available on all Ghibli versions, allow Maserati to offer Level 2 driving automation technology, adopted by only a narrow selection of top-end competitors. It means even greater peace of mind, whether you’re on an exclusive grand your or a dash through the city.

Level 2 ADAS, which includes Highway Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition, marks a major step toward semi-autonomous driving. 

Although ADAS are valuable assets for ensuring a safer driving experience, Maserati also remains faithful to its core philosophy as a manufacturer of race-bred grand touring cars with superior dynamics capable of offering unparalleled driving experiences. The introduction of the Active ADAS package in the Ghibli range makes the car even safer in a variety of traffic conditions, but the driver remains 100% in control at all times.         

Highway Assist

Highway Assist is intended for use on highways or limited access freeways at speeds up to 145 km/h with the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) activated. It reduces driver fatigue and consequently enhances active safety by allowing the car to keep itself centred in its lane and to adapt its speed – pre-selected by the driver from the ACC - in full autonomy.

The system employs the same hardware used by Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist - a radar unit on the front grille and a forward-looking camera in the interior rear-view mirror - and works with the EPS to control the direction of the car.

The radar uses the same algorithms as ACC and Forward Collision Warning Plus (FCW Plus), as well as lateral and longitudinal control and object recognition algorithms, which determine the car’s direction in the event that lane markings are invisible. The multi-function camera detects horizontal road markings and calculates the distance and speed of the vehicle in front. Highway Assist includes a radio that provides road information, and a ‘hands on wheel’ detection system.

HAS is a ‘hands-on’ function meaning that the driver is required to stay engaged in driving and in control of the car at all times. The driver can override the system at any time.

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)

LKA keeps the car centred in its lane. In comparison to the MY17 Lane Departure Warning system, it features new graphics on the instrument panel and radio settings, and replaces the acoustic chime signal with direct input to the EPS.

The instrument panel display shows the specific status. White lines on either side of the vehicle image indicate that it is safely in lane. One yellow line indicates that the Ghibli is moving off-centre, right or left. And one flashing yellow line warns of lane departure. At that point, when the Visual & Haptic box is selected in the touchscreen display, LKA actively steps in with corrective steering torque.

If the driver begins changing lane involuntarily, LKA will communicate with EPS to issue warning vibrations and ultimately alter the steering wheel angle to keep the car in lane. When the indicators are on, LKA is deactivated.     

LKA uses a forward-looking camera that detects lane markers to determine the car’s position, as well as a radar for data processing, which is fundamental in defining the system’s logic and EPS interaction. The system works at speeds between 60 km/h and 180 km/h. 

Active Blind Spot Assist

Active Blind Spot Assist is a system that attempts to prevent a collision during lane change, an active upgrade of the previous Blind Spot Alert system. It monitors blind spot areas using two radar-based sensors located inside the rear bumper.

As well as providing an LED and acoustic warning, the system can communicate with the EPS to intervene with steering torque and prevent a possible collision. Active Blind Spot Assist uses a radar in the front grille and a forward-looking camera to determine the car’s position in the lane. It works at speeds between 60 km/h and 180 km/h.  

Traffic Sign Recognition

Essentially, Traffic Sign Recognition prevents unintended speeding, providing the driver with real time information on the instrument panel about the current speed limit. When the system is activated, the forward-looking camera in the interior rear-view mirror begins to identify speed limits and other road signs, such as ‘no overtaking’.*

Traffic Sign Recognition identifies speed limits for specific conditions, such as rain, fog or hour-specific limits, and uses map data from the navigation system to inform the driver in case actual signs are non-existent, invisible or not recognisable by the camera system.

*not available in USA and Canada       

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go function

When activated (between 30 and 210 km/h), ACC constantly monitors the space between the Ghibli and the vehicle ahead, maintaining a safe pre-set distance. If traffic slows or another vehicle moves in front, it slows the car down by making it coast or by engaging the brakes.

Conversely, when the vehicle ahead speeds up or moves into another lane, the system accelerates up to the pre-set speed. If the ACC is automatically braking, the stoplights are activated.

Thanks to the integrated Stop & Go function, the car will adjust to the target vehicle’s speed until it comes to a complete stop and will set off automatically if the stop is less than two seconds.

Forward Collision Warning Plus (FCW Plus) and Advanced Brake Assist system (ABA)

FCW Plus monitors vehicles ahead by means of a camera and warns the driver through visual and acoustic alerts when they are in danger of a possible rear-end collision.

If the driver brakes and the system determines that they have not applied sufficient brake force, ABA will compensate for this and provide the appropriate amount of additional braking.

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

AEB is an active system designed to avoid collision or minimise damage. A potential collision is identified by the ACC radar and a forward-looking camera. The driver is provided with visual and acoustic alerts as an early warning to start braking. If they do not take action, the system will brake autonomously to help slow the vehicle down and minimise the impact.

Rear-view camera with dynamic lines

Located above the number plate, the camera turns on automatically when the reverse gear is selected and shows the area behind the car on the new high resolution 8.4” display.

The camera utilises the rear parking sensors to alert the driver both visually and acoustically about potential obstructions. The dynamic grid lines represent the maximum width of the car and its projected path based on the steering angle signal.

Optional Surround View Camera

The Surround View Camera system uses four cameras in total – two lateral cameras housed underneath the side mirrors, as well as a forward- and rear-looking camera – to provide a clear 360° bird’s eye view of the car on the high-resolution display. It is activated automatically in reverse gear or manually via the soft button on the 8.4” display and provides five selectable views. It also shows open doors and parking guide lines.

Rear Cross Path

This function issues alerts when reversing out of a parking space. It is intended to help drivers reverse out of parking spaces when their view of oncoming vehicles is blocked. Using sensors located on either side of the rear bumper, it detects any vehicles or objects moving towards the side of the vehicle at speeds between approximately 1 km/h and 16 km/h.

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

TPMS, available as standard on all Ghibli versions, continuously monitors tyre pressure with a sensor mounted inside the rim as part of the valve. The pressure can then be read off the display on the dashboard. In the event of a puncture or a change in tyre pressure, the system notifies the driver with visual and acoustic warnings.

Active Speed Limiter

This function, available on all* Ghibli versions, allows the driver to set a maximum speed limit using a button on the steering wheel. If the driver decides to override the limit, they just have to ‘kick down’ and thus exceed the set speed.

* not available in the US market 

Active and Passive safety

Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC)

Ghibli and Quattroporte are the first Maserati cars to adopt IVC, a new function using Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) software that brings aerospace technology to public roads.

By preventing - instead of simply correcting - a loss of car control, IVC, which has been developed in collaboration with Bosch, provides enhanced active safety and driving dynamics, better performance and a more enjoyable experience for the driver.

IVC uses a smart, feed-forward controller that predicts driving situations in advance and adapts the engine speed and brakes accordingly. IVC intervenes more smoothly and with less noise than a traditional ESP, ensures better car balance and traction at the limits of the car’s dynamics and employs intelligent torque vectoring to optimise lateral dynamics in a natural way even when ESP is off.

In dynamic test manoeuvres, IVC has demonstrated higher drive-through speed (for example, slalom and lane change) and improved racetrack lap times.

Maserati Stability Program (MSP)

Developed in the most extreme test conditions, the MSP uses a wide array of sensors for early detection and intervention. If skidding is detected, the system reduces the engine’s torque output and may activate the brakes with finely varied inputs to restore the car’s stability within milliseconds. MSP includes the following key systems:

Passive Safety Systems

The Ghibli’s passive safety equipment has been designed for maximum peace of mind. The Ghibli has achieved a 5-star score in the Euro NCAP crash tests without compromising its weight or fuel consumption.

Maserati has balanced these conflicting demands by using hot-formed steels in critical areas of the passenger compartment for added safety, while using aluminium in other areas to save weight.

In particular, the front of the passenger compartment features hot-moulded steel components, with a magnesium dashboard strut to save weight, while the rear is stiffened with high-strength steel. The crash bars at the front and rear of the car are made of extruded aluminium, while the doors and bonnet are in aluminium.

Maserati’s engineers added a third crash-load path to the front structure of the car to help dissipate load and distribute the forces on the car to guarantee the stability of the body structure in frontal impacts.

Seven airbags

The Ghibli is equipped seven airbags and anti-whiplash front headrests. At the front, two-stage airbags are concealed inside the steering wheel and dashboard to protect the head in frontal impact crashes, while a knee airbag protects the driver’s legs and reduces femur load in an impact.

The driver’s and front passenger’s chest and hips are further protected by the side airbags beneath the seat leather. The sides of their heads are protected by two head curtain airbags mounted in the roof of the car, next to the B-pillar. The curtain airbag protects the heads of the front and rear occupants against lateral impact.

Ghibli development and testing

The Ghibli is built on the same production line as the Quattroporte at the Avv. Giovanni Agnelli plant (AGAP) in Grugliasco, near Turin. The plant is home to state-of-the-art technologies and production processes, in line with the latest quality standards at the very top of the industry.

Every single Ghibli is put through a quality assurance test at the end of the production line.

Additionally, a long and rigorous programme of reliability tests was conducted in the testing programme during the model’s development, including: