Brand new Maserati Ghibli sports executive sedan appeals to the head

Dubai International Motor Show saw the premiers of three highly anticipated models, the Maserati Ghibli, The Maserati GranCabrio MC and GranTurismo MC Stradale; which including the sixth generation Quattroporte totals four new models brought to the region by Maserati this year alone.

Focus fell on Maserati’s exciting entrance into the E-segment of the sports premium market: The Maserati Ghibli is an entirely new model for the Italian car manufacturer and provides a cornerstone in the Marque’s plan to build 50,000 cars a year by 2015, with the Middle East forming a key market to reach this eightfold rise in production.

The sports executive sedan combines fascinating design with exceptional handling and outstanding performance. Both versions of the petrol range, Ghibli and Ghibli S, feature a new-generation twin turbo-charged 3.0-litre V6 engine. With its power output of 410 hp the Ghibli S races to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 285 km/h. The Ghibli delivers 330 hp, a top speed of 263 km/h and an acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.

The new Ghibli shares much of its core architecture, its chassis, its suspension architecture, the V6 engine and the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission with the flagship limousine Quattroporte, though it is 50 kg lighter, 173 mm shorter in the wheel base and 291 mm shorter overall. It is the second model after the flagship to be manufactured to new benchmark quality standards in Maserati’s new state-of-the-art production facilities in Grugliasco close to Turin.

Dynamic and precise handling is guaranteed by the car’s perfectly balanced 50:50 weight distribution while the sophisticated Maserati Skyhook suspension system and limited slip differential, novel in its class, make every ride even more enjoyable. Achieving five stars on the Euro NCAP crash test, the Ghibli provides peace of mind for all occupants.

While the Ghibli maintains a strong visual link to the Quattroporte, its design emphasizes a more determined personality and muscular lines. The pronounced grille draws a line back to the iconic A6 GCS of the 1950s. The headlights add noticeable feline hints to the front, while their shape converges onto the Trident symbol, with every angle designed to attract the eye to Maserati’s legendary marque.

The distinctive C-pillar delivers much of the Ghibli’s coupé-like stance and hosts the classical Saetta Maserati logo. The side profile is dominated by a character line that emerges from the three unmistakable Maserati air vents behind the front wheels and finishes in the rear lights themselves.

With its elongated wheelbase, a total length of 4.97m and wide tracks, the Ghibli demonstrates a perfect blend of sportiness and elegance that is second to none in its class.

The Ghibli enters the market with a tangible advantage in cabin craftsmanship and detailing. It also sets itself apart with a unique, cockpit-inspired dashboard design that perfectly matches its sporty and youthful character without compromising on the highest level of refinement and sophistication. Key elements such as the 8.4″ Maserati Touch Control and the fine Poltrona Frau® leather finish underline the cabin’s timeless sporting character. Optional features include the 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkes high end audio system, WLAN based WiFi and a wide range of customization options that cater for the most demanding individuals.

Making inspirational motoring more accessible the Ghibli will be available in the UAE with a starting price of 285,000 AED / $77,000 USD.

The GranTurismo MC Stradale and the GranCabrio MC also made their regional debuts at Dubai Motorshow.

The new four-seater GranTurismo MC Stradale takes its inspiration from the racing version which competes in the Maserati Trofeo Championship, offering the perfect combination of sportiness, luxury and elegance, comfort and style,  functionality and dynamism that can now be enjoyed by four people. The new aesthetic exterior features, with their clear racing edge, are highlighted by the new carbon fibre bonnet which frames an central air intake and two rear extractors.

The GranTurismo MC Stradale is powered by Maserati’s acclaimed 4.7 litre 460 hp V8 engine. Combined with a MC Race Shift 6-speed electro actuated gearbox, the car ensures thrilling high performance -and a top speed of 303 km/h, which can be enjoyed in the new four passenger configuration.

For those who prefer the open top drive with a thrill, Maserati presented the stunning new GranCabrio MC.  The four-seater embodies muscular performance blended with the lifestyle, charm and design of the acclaimed convertible. The athletic look of the GranCabrio MC can be seen in each design element in its bodywork, which blends sportiness, dynamism, aerodynamic functionality, elegance and style.

Starting from 595,000 AED / $162,000 the GranCabrio MC also boasts 460 hp and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in swift 4.9 seconds.

Underlining the importance of the occasion, Maserati’s Global Head of Design, Mr Lorenzo Ramaciotti had the honour of unveiling the stunning line up to an expectant press cordon. He commented, “It is my honour to be here at Dubai International Motor Show to unveil the new Maserati Ghibli. Inspired by the iconic concept of the legendary Tipo 60, also known as ‘the Birdcage’, the Ghibli design went back to the very core of Maserati’s 100-year heritage. With harmony, dynamism and purity, all captured in the sleek lines and proportions, the Ghibli successfully creates the bridge between the spaciousness of a sedan and the sportiness of a coupe.”

Umberto Cini, Managing Director for Maserati General Overseas Markets commented at the launch, “On the eve of its centennial celebration, the Maserati has successfully laid the foundations for an unparalleled strategic and industrial. In 2013 alone we have launched four new models, three of them to the region here at Dubai Motor Show, undoubtedly highlighting the Middle East’s importance to Maserati’s future growth.”

The Maserati stand was presented by Al Tayer Motors, Maserati’s exclusive importing partner in the UAE. Speaking at the press conference Hossam Hosni, General Manager – Luxury Auto, Al Tayer Motors , said: “Maserati began the year with the launch of the all-new Quattroporte and today three cars, the MC Stradale, the GranCabrio MC and the all-new Ghibli, make their regional debut strengthening its product portfolio in the Middle East. This is a prelude to more exciting product announcements to come from the Trident marque over the next couple of years.”