Maserati Ghibli 2021: sports sedan gets updated look, new tech

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The 2021 Maserati Ghibli super-sedan has been given a refresh as the Italian brand attempts to build a more cohesive and updated model range.

A bespoke rival to performance four-doors like the BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C63 S, the Ghibli scores a larger front grille for 2021 with a tooth-like design said to be based on Maserati’s familiar trident badge that sits prominently in the centre,

Sitting at each corner of the Ghibli are a set of boomerang-shaped LED headlights and taillights that are slightly more striking than the 2020 model. Buyers can opt for a darker shade of lights with the ‘Black Pack trim’ or go even lighter if they select the GranLusso trim level.

Maserati has given the style-focused Ghibli GranLusso a series of chrome inserts around the front bumper while a set of 19-inch Poseidone alloy wheels sit at all four corners.

While those who opt for the Ghibli GranSport will instead gain stealthier piano black inserts into the front bumper, with larger 20-inch Urano polished alloy wheels.

Maserati has thrown out the old 8.4-inch touchscreen with a 4:3 ratio for a frameless 10.1-inch screen with a more landscape ratio at 16:10, echoing similar designs seen on Mercedes-Benz and Genesis models.

The Maserati Intelligent Assistant software on the multi-touch display is now an android-based product that features a new graphics interface that is said to be more intuitive for the driver to use.

The adaptive cruise control system was previously only available at general highway speed but has now been upgraded for around-town use. The system is semi-autonomous in that it uses a lane-keeping assist function but still requires both hands on the wheel at all times. 

The Ghibli powertrain has remained the same for 2021, with all models are powered by a twin-turbo three-litre V6 that is put through an eight-speed torque converter automatic and sends power to the rear wheels only.

The standard Ghibli, along with the base GranSport and GranLusso, puts out 257kW of power and 500Nm of torque while the GranSport S and GranLusso S turn up the wick to 321kW/580Nm.

Maserati has increased the price of the Ghibli by $5,000 for the entry-level and base variant and the GranSport/GranLusso models, but the S variants have had their prices slashed by $9,990. 

Later this year The Ghibli will be joined by both a hybrid and a high-performance Trofeo variant to entice more buyers to the growing range.

The Ghibli Hybrid pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system making a combined 246kW/450Nm while using between 8.5-9.6L/100km, according to WLTP.

Maserati will also bring the Ghibli Trofeo to Australia that packs a twin-turbo 3.8-litre V8 making 433kW/730Nm with all that power going to the rear wheels. The Ghibli Trofeo doesn’t struggle for acceleration though, with a 0-100km/h time of 4.3 seconds.

Maserati Ghibli 2021: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• Ghibli: $144,990
• Ghibli GranSport: $168,990
• Ghibli GranLusso: $168,990
• Ghibli GranSport S: $175,000
• Ghibli GranLusso S: $175,000