Maserati Ghibli

EXTERIOR

It is hard to ignore a Ghibli on road not because it has a huge stance but it possesses a well defined road presence that makes you have another look at it. Appearing to be stronger from the front, Ghibli gets leaner towards the rear, balancing the sketch well. The hood is unusually wide which in turn renders it an assertive semblance. The hood lines and creases up front on the bonnet grants aggression. Front apron is petite, but what makes it noticeable is the smooth transition of the bonnet into the nose bearing swept back head lights and multiple slat (placed vertically) grille with chrome surrounding.

The bi-xenon head lamps get incorporated LED daytime running lights and integrated LED turn indicators. The concave vertical fillets featuring matte black finish in the front radiator grille are afflated by the GranTurismo and A6 GCS Berlinetta. Just beneath the front upper grille, a honey-comb lower grille has been placed followed by an air-dam which serves the dual purpose of improved aerodynamics and rendering a sporty tinge to the front apron. The narrow windows embellished by the chrome garnishing, plush chrome treated outside door handles, sporty multi-spoke alloys and defined character lines accentuate the side profile. While the rear is somewhat tapered, it gets LED tail lights and dual chrome exhaust pipes fitted.

INTERIOR

Interiors offer generous space all thanks to the long wheelbase; interior styling has been done elegantly. The premium leather seat covers and use of leather on dashboard along with doors appears endearing. Also, the contrast colour stitching evident on the leather upholstery lends sporty flair.

Dual themed colour scheme with hint of chrome garnishing inside looks perfect. Although, the centre console and instrument cluster do appear a tad cluttered. There is enough space for storage inside, like bottle holders on doors and several cubbyholes. An 8.4 inch display of the Maserati Touch Control allows easy access to the car’s infotainment system.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE

Driving Ghibli is the mighty 3.0 litre, V6 diesel engine featuring the latest diesel engine technology. Power generated is massive, the engine churns out top power of 275 HP at 4000 RPM along with peak torque of 600 Nm between 2000 to 2600 RPM. ZF’s next generation lightweight eight speed automatic transmission vouches high performance and is controlled by an auto-adaptive software that enables the vehicle to adapt to the road condition and automatically alters driving style by changing gear mode. That said, the transmission offers five driving modes including auto normal, auto sport, manual normal, manual sport and I.C.E (increased control efficiency).

BRAKING AND SAFETY

Braking system and safety features on this model is superior; Ghibli has been awarded with five stars EuroNCAP rating and Top safety pick.

CONCLUSION

Maserati has spun off diesel powered Ghibli for the Indian customers, it sits at the beginning of the company’s range of models for domestic market. Engine underneath the hood is powerful and offers massive power, performance offered is appreciative too. Exteriors are crafted carefully and make it stand apart amid competition. Interiors are spacious; however it could have been styled more elegantly. Standard equipment option is limited which means this pricey machine is not very well equipped with features. Yes, it is pricey and demands high maintenance, though considering performance on offer it is worth every penny for luxury enthusiasts.