MASERATI GHIBLI HYBRID TO LEAD BRAND’S ELECTRIFICATION

Maserati has announced plans for its first electrified model as it adds a hybrid drivetrain to its Ghibli luxury saloon.

The new model replaces the V6 diesel in the Ghibli line-up and comes ahead of the launch of all-electric versions of the Grant ur is mo and gr an cab rio, scheduled for 2021.

Maserati describes the Ghibli hybrid’s drivetrain as the perfect trade-off between performance, efficiency and drivingpleasure. unlike other models in theGhiblil in e-up which use at win-turbov6s, the hybrid features a single-turbo 2.0-litre petrol, This is mated to a mild hybrid setup featuring a 48V alternator and ebooster “electric supercharger”. It uses energy harvested from braking and deceleration to offer a torque boost when required and means the Ghibli hybrid produces 325bhp and 331lb ft from just 1,500pm. Zero to 62mph takes just 5.7 seconds and the Ghibli has a top speed of 158mph.

The hybrid car is 80kg lighter than the V6 diesel which it replaces and Maserati says it will offer comparable CO2 emissions of 192g/km – 25 per cent lower than the V6 petrol – and economy of 33.2mpg.

Despite being a four-cylinder, the Ghibli will, apparently, retain Maserati’s characteristic sound thanks to some clever exhaust resonators.

The hybrid is part of a refreshed Ghibli line-up but gets unique styling elements to mark it out from other models.all new models get a revised grille and new“boomerang” tail lights that echo the famous rear clusters of the 3200GT and the Alfieri concept car.

Ghibli hybrids get an exclusive blue finish to the triple side air ducts, brake calipers and the trident badge on the C pillar. The colour is carried on inside in contrast stitching on the seats. The same blue cues will be used across all maser at i’ s future hybrid models, expected to include Quattroporte and Levante models.

All new Ghiblis come with the latest Maserati Intelligent Assistant multimedia system which uses Android Automotive to power its 10.1- inch touch screen–up from the old model’ s 8.4 inches. A new instrument panel with digital devices and new graphics is also introduced.

Production will begin in September and the Ghibli hybrid is open for order now in Gransport and Granlusso trims.