Maserati Ghibli Hybrid.
Maserati’s has introduced its first electrified model, the Ghibli Hybrid. Like other European carmakers, Maserati has also adopted a 48-volt mild hybrid system to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
Unlike a full hybrid model, a 48-volt mild hybrid is less complex than a full hybrid model. The latter would require a larger battery pack and an electric drivetrain in addition to the internal combustion one.
MASERATI GHIBLI HYBRID: UNIQUE STYLING CUES
The Maserati Ghibli Hybrid features several new and unique design elements.
There’s a new front grille, which depending on the trim specification, is finished in either chrome (GranLusso) or Black Piano (GranSport). The light clusters feature three-colour lenses, which were produced with 3k injection-moulding technology.
Emphasising the saloon’s electrified character are the dark blue-coloured Brembo brake callipers and the trio of air ducts found just behind the front fenders. Dark Blue has been adopted as the hue representing clean mobility.
Maserati Ghibli Hybrid models in Europe are presented in a “high-tech grey shade with blue overtones”, which the manufacturer calls Grigio Evoluzione.
MORE BLUE CUES, ENHANCED TECH
The dark blue accents can also be found on the contrast stitching and trident logos on the seats, which are upholstered in Pieno Fiore leather.
In GranLusso-trim, the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid will have features that include Ermenegildo Zegna mulberry silk inserts and electrically adjustable foot pedals. Meanwhile, the GranSport option will include features such as Inox pedals and aluminium paddle shifters.
New to the cabin is the upgraded Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA), which is powered by Android Automotive. It features a new high-resolution display that now measures 10.1 inches instead of 8.4 inches.
An eight-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system is standard. Optionally available are the 10-speaker Harman/Kardon premium system and 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins unit with a 1280-watt amplifier.
48-VOLT ELECTRIFIED DRIVETRAIN
Under the bonnet of the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid is a turbocharged 2-litre 4-cylinder that produces 333hp and 450Nm. It is paired to a ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox.
It is the smallest displacement engine ever fitted to the current-generation Ghibli, which was previously only available with a 3-litre V6 petrol or diesel. This motor is also the first electrified one from the brand, and is equipped with a 48-volt mild hybrid system.
The 48-volt mild hybrid consists of four parts: a belt starter-generator (BSG), e-Booster, battery and DC/DC converter. The BSG performs the duties of an alternator, recovers energy during braking/deceleration and stores it in the battery located in the boot.
This stored energy is used to power the e-Booster, an electrically driven supercharger that backs up and complements the turbocharger. It sustains the engine’s outputs at lower rpms.
The Maserati Ghibli Hybrid sprints from rest to 100km/h in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 255km/h. Maserati claims a combined fuel consumption between 8.5 and 9.6 litres/100km (11.8km/L to 10.4km/L), according to the WLTP cycle.
AVAILABILITY
According to official agent Tridente Automobili, the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid is expected to reach Singapore in the first quarter of 2021.
Check out our previous Maserati Ghibli review here
Read our review of the Maserati Levante Trofeo here
Click here for our Group Test featuring the Maserati Levante S, Porsche Cayenne S and Jaguar F-Pace
