Introduction
When many of us think of luxury cars, options like BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, or Audi A6 often come to mind. However, the Italians have a different perspective, exemplified by the Maserati Ghibli. Let’s delve deeper into the 2019 Maserati Ghibli and see how it compares to its German rivals in terms of exterior and interior design as well as driving dynamics.
Exterior Design
The Maserati Ghibli is one of the most stunning cars in its class, potentially among the most beautiful vehicles on the road today. With its sleek curves, low front end, and iconic Maserati grille featuring the company’s prominent logo, it offers a design that nears perfection.
Ghibli GranLusso Version
The Ghibli GranLusso variant stands out from the GranSport with its unique turbo cooling vents and chrome accents. It also features:
- Fully LED headlights with adaptive daytime running lights
- 20-inch wheels with perforated brake discs
- The name "GranLusso" displayed on the side
- Three ventilation openings on the side of the car
To enhance the sense of luxury, the GranLusso comes with frameless windows and doors that open smoothly, unlike other cars that only open at specific points. At the rear, it boasts an impressive exhaust system with four outlets.
Interior Design
Upon entering the GranLusso’s cabin, the first thing you’ll notice is the blend of fabric, leather, and black piano wood throughout the interior. Some may wonder how the GranLusso, designed to be more luxurious, incorporates fabric, but knowing this material was specially crafted for Maserati by Zenga, one of the leading Italian fashion houses, highlights the Ghibli GranLusso’s unique luxury in this segment.
Features
While the 2019 Ghibli GranLusso may not outshine its German competitors regarding equipment, it offers impressive specifications suitable for a luxury car, including:
- 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Control settings via the screen or dials
- Dual-zone climate control
- Heated and cooled electric seats
- Navigation system
- Bluetooth connectivity with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support
- Bowers & Wilkins audio system with 15 speakers and a 1280-watt amplifier
Additionally, there’s a 360-degree camera view from four cameras, front and rear sensors, blind-spot monitoring, speed limiter, adaptive cruise control, a 7-inch information display in the instrument cluster, and a small sunroof.
One feature I appreciated in the storage areas is a dedicated mobile phone compartment beneath the dashboard, finished in velvet, along with a cooled compartment in the center console with cup holders.
However, in the rear, the Ghibli falls short compared to its competitors regarding space for rear passengers, even with air conditioning vents, heated seats, and controls for the rear window shade.
Driving Experience
Driving the Ghibli GranLusso in "Normal" mode provides a smooth and easy experience, which is expected in this class. However, the car doesn’t just have paddle shifters behind the steering wheel for show; they are designed to deliver an outstanding performance you won't find in any other car within this segment.
To enjoy driving this exceptional vehicle to the fullest, follow these steps:
- Switch the driving mode to "Sport"
- Adjust the suspension system to sport mode
- Change the gear shift to "Manual" mode
Then, revel in the 3-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, producing 350 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, allowing you to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds. Despite the cabin being designed for complete tranquility, you’ll still enjoy the wonderful Italian melody from the quad exhaust.
Driving the Ghibli GranLusso is not just about the specs mentioned, but also about the passion instilled by Maserati engineers in crafting this car to fulfill the joy of driving; every moment behind the wheel of the Ghibli brings a unique feeling to any driving enthusiast.
Conclusion
With the starting price of the 2019 Ghibli GranLusso in the UAE at 369,000 AED, you could purchase a German car in the same class that offers more interior space and refined German technology. While you would likely be satisfied with that option, no other competitor can match the passion and driving pleasure that this remarkable Maserati provides, which is something that many consider priceless.
Engine Options
Test Drive: Maserati GranCabrio Sport 2018
Test Drive: Maserati Levante S 2018
