Maserati previews all new Ghibli on local shores

Hong Seh Motors has unveiled the latest member to the family of tridents - the Maserati Ghibli. First shown at the Shanghai Motor Show, the sedan marks many firsts for the Italian marque, such as the first time a second four-door model is offered concurrently in its stable. 

The full-sized luxury sedan is also the first in the company's history to sport a diesel powerplant.

Being shorter and smaller than the flagship Quattroporte, the Ghibli aims to deliver a more dynamic performance and driver-focused experience. It also bears the marque's ambition to expand and build 50,000 cars annually by 2015. 

To ensure a sportier handling characteristic, the Ghibli utilises a 50:50 weight distribution. The suspension system comprises of a double wishbone at the front, which is adopted from the marque's racing pedigree. The Ghibli also has a firmer version of the five-link suspension found in the Quattroporte.

Two engine variants will be offered at launch - a 330bhp 'base model' and a 410bhp Ghibli S, both credit of a twin-turbo V6 engine. The top-of-range Ghibli S is available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, allowing the sedan to launch to 100km/h in 5.0 seconds and 4.8 seconds respectively. 

In addition, a diesel variant is in the pipelines, and is likely due to reach our shores in the future. The diesel drivetrain promises the same level of refinement, without compromising on the performance and driving pleasure which the marque has grown synonymous with.

To do this, it comes with a 3.0-litre powerplant which puts out 275bhp and 600Nm of torque from 2,000 rpm - the most powerful diesel engine in its segment. To enhance the aural experience, the Ghibli diesel will come with an Active Sound system, which uses two sound actuators positioned near the exhaust pipes to amplify the engine's most distinctive tone. 

Continuing its luxurious traits, the Ghibli's cabin is finished in fine Poltrona Frau leather, with two trimming options available for the dashboard. The interior will feature WiFi WLAN hotspot, an 8.4-inch touch screen display and a 15-speaker Bowers and Wilkens entertainment system.

The Ghibli is slated to reach local shores in the fourth quarter of 2013.