[Auto] Maserati Ghibli Hybrid: Electricity reaches the trident, albeit with a trick

[#Steeven.™]

If there is an adjective with which we can explain the Italian design concept, it is beauty. It is rare for a firm with a transalpine passport to present a model that can be considered ugly or that is not very original. One of the best exponents of this philosophy is the Maserati Ghibli, the access saloon of the trident's house. Now, when it has been on the market for seven years, it receives a very special version and a slight aesthetic update.

We are referring, as you all know, to the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid. With all of you, here is the first electrified model in the 106-year history of the Italian brand. When we have seen it, we have had mixed feelings, since we all expected that the courage of the FCA Group would be greater. In summary: they have presented a model that serves as a preview for what is to come and that, in essence, continues to be at a high level.

The sporty elegance of the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid does not change one iota

On an aesthetic level, the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid maintains its essence. The proof is that the Centro Stile Maserati combines like few other sports lines with superb elegance. However, as it is a special version, which hopes to capture a wider audience, it receives a series of touch-ups that improve its imprint. First of all, we have a grill with chrome slats that simulate being small tuning forks.

The main light groups receive LED technology and a renewed interior configuration. If we make the jump to the side view, we also see changes. After the previous wheel arch we have three small air intakes that are adorned with blue inserts. This same tone, in reference to the electricity that is present in its mechanics, can be seen in the brake calipers. Finally, we have the logo beam located on the "C" pillar.

The last aspect to review in the aesthetics of the Ghibli Hybrid is behind. Those responsible for design have updated their optical groups by modifying their exterior and interior format. Now they include a boomerang-like profile that is by no means casual. According to its creators, it is inspired by the Maserati 3200 GT and the latest Alfieri Concept. All in all, and despite its seniority, the trident saloon is one of the most beautiful on the market.

 

The interior improves in materials, technology and connectivity

If the exterior of the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid can be considered as timeless, inside we can consider it as sober. The basic lines of design do not change, but new elements arrive that refresh its imprint, especially at the technological level. Thus, the central touch screen grows in size to reach 10.1 inches and offer more current and easier to read graphics. In addition, it presents more intuitive and attractive menus.

Thanks to this monitor, the latest generation Maserati Intelligent Assistant multimedia system comes to life. It is based on digital inputs from Android Automotive, a software that offers an innovative and fully customizable user experience according to the personal preferences of the driver. But in addition, we also have a new instrument cluster with digital devices and new graphics.

Nor can we overlook the Maserati Connect program. Thanks to it, the mobile connection is constant, facilitating the exchange of information to improve the services offered to the driver. But it also updates the software by carrying out checks on the car and monitoring the security and emergency services. Finally, mention that the blue hue of the exterior is spread across the seats or rugs.

 

The 48-volt hybridization of the Ghibli seems unambitious to us

On a technical level, we expected the technicians and engineers at the Maserati Innovation Laboratory in Modena to be more ambitious. We all expected that the first hybrid of the Italian house was pure or a plug-in hybrid. However, we must settle for a mild hybrid system with a 48-volt secondary power grid. Still, and looking little, we must say that the result promises.

The thermal part is entrusted to a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline block. Attached to it we have an alternator and starter motor (BSG) and a small battery that stores the energy recovered in the braking phases. In addition to all this arsenal, the motor equips an electric compressor called e-Booster. Altogether, this system offers a final performance of 330 CV and 450 Nm of maximum torque.

According to Maserati, this technical solution is unique in its segment. Thanks to it, they can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 25% compared to the six-cylinder gasoline block and the same to diesel. In addition, the weight of the Ghibli Hybrid is 80 kilos less than diesel, improving driving dynamics. This can be seen in the benefits, with an acceleration of 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 255 kilometers per hour.

As a climax to this update, the exhaust system has been optimized. Now it includes resonators specially designed to deliver an intoxicating and sporty sound.

 

When will the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid hit the market?

The commercial launch of the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid is scheduled for next September. In any case, the first units will not arrive at dealerships until October. It is for this reason that they have not yet announced the official price list or the final equipment possibilities. What we do know are the future plans of the trident's signature.

This model represents the first step in Maserati electrification. It will be assembled at the Avvocato Giovanni Agnelli (AGAP) plant located in Grugliasco (Turin), but it will not be the only one. Next year the arrival of the fully electric GranTurismo and GranCabrio is planned and after them the rest of the models that make up the brand's range. We will be very attentive to the news that may come.