Anyone looking for a powerful, well-equipped executive saloon is spoiled for choice in today’s market, with all the prestige brands offering a wide range of models.

So it’s a good to welcome a rather more exotic contender – especially when it’s as practical and as appealing as Maserati’s Ghibli. A real game-changer for the company’s centenary year.

The Ghibli couldn’t be anything other than a Maserati. Even if you ignore the distinctive trident in the centre of that snarling grille there’s something about the sensual profile, tapering waistline and muscular rear haunches that set it apart. Inside, there’s a simple but striking instrument panel ahead of the three-spoke steering wheel, with rpm, speed and a dividing TFT information panel.

The two front seats, each trimmed in soft leather, are separated by a raised console for a cockpit-like ambience while the rear seats will accommodate three in comfort. Two-tone leather colour combinations and the distinctive hand-stitching of the upholstery strengthen the feeling that you’re travelling first class.

The V6 is mated to a smooth, next-generation 8-speed ZF transmission that recognises your driving style and road conditions and adapts accordingly. Drivers can choose from five operating modes: Auto Normal, Auto Sport, Manual Normal, Manual Sport and I.C.E. (Increased Control and Efficiency).For the chassis, the double-wishbone front and five-arm multilink rear suspension manage to reconcile business-class ride comfort with the kind of agile handling one would expect of a car carrying the Maserati badge.