DIESEL POWER EXTENDS APPEAL OF MASERATI’S EXECUTIVE CLASS CONTENDER

Even with the addition of a diesel powertrain to the range, a Maserati Ghibli will remain a rare sight. And that’s just how Ghibli owners like it. Not for them the ubiquitous three-pointed star, four interlocking rings or blue and white propeller badges. Instead they get an Italian thoroughbred with that evocative trident badge whose distinctive features include a snarling grille flanked by Bi-Xenon headlights, together with a sensual profile, tapering waistline and muscular rear haunches.

Inside, you’re greeted by a spacious, elegantly-arranged interior where the driver and front passenger are separated by a raised console, creating a cockpit-like ambience. The dash features a large, 8.4″ touchscreen while the driver’s field of vision includes a three-spoke, leather-clad steering wheel and hooded, twin-binnacle instrument panel with a TFT display. The soft leather used for the seating can also extend to the dashboard and doors for a sense of cosseting luxury, with the option of a two-tone finish and contrast stitching. Whether you’re driving or relaxing in one of the passenger seats, the inside of a Ghibli is packed with the feel-good factor.

GranLusso and GranSport trim options now available:
With the GranLusso, the style is focused on luxury. With the GranSport, it’s more about engaging driving dynamics.

The Ghibli Diesel is the first diesel-powered car in Maserati’s 101-year history, and the company’s engineers have managed to combine efficiency and performance with a touch of Italian soul. The standard 0-62mph dash takes just 6.3 seconds, yet it also achieves 47.9mpg on the combined cycle, with emissions of 158 g/km. For business car drivers, those figures will be enough to put the Ghibli on the shortlist.

The 275HP 3-litre diesel V6 is mated to an eight-speed ZF transmission for smooth, seamless shifts, with a choice of five transmission modes from Auto Normal to Manual Sport. Features like Stop&Start help keep emissions and fuel consumption down while the Maserati Active Sound exhaust ensures aural entertainment at a touch of the Sport button.

Other executive class diesels might shade the Ghibli by a fraction on mpg or emissions figures, yet none can match its combination of efficiency, distinction and charisma. For many owners, that will prove to be the clinching argument.