This is the new Maserati Ghibli Hybrid, a car that represents a number of firsts for the brand. It's the first 2.0-litre engine found in a Maserati, as well as the first electrified model that strives to deliver the same dynamic performance while reducing emissions.

A hybrid, eh?

Well, let's get this out of the way - this isn't really a hybrid, at least not in the typical sense. The Ghibli doesn't have a full-on hybrid system that allows you to drive in all-electric mode. What you get in the Ghibli Hybrid is a 48V hybrid system consisting of four parts - a Belt Starter Generator, a battery, an eBooster and a DC/DC converter. So, this is really a mild hybrid rather than a full hybrid.

So yes, there's that. Maserati is calling it the Ghibli Hybrid, so we'll go with that name.

What's the point, then? Well, Maserati as a brand builds a combination of big V6 and V8 engines of both petrol and diesel variants. Moving forward, as stricter emissions standards are introduced, that's just not going to be sustainable. To meet fleet emission demands, a car like this is basically needed.

The Ghibli Hybrid uses a 2.0-litre engine that is capable of delivering 326bhp and 450Nm of torque. The V6 petrol engine produces 350bhp and 500Nm of torque, so this 2.0-litre mild hybrid engine is really not that far off performance-wise. 

On the road, that is evident enough. Despite the car being fairly heavy (almost two tonnes), acceleration is brisk, and when you get hard on the throttle the car still picks up speed really quickly. Maserati's mild hybrid system has an eBooster that, like the name suggests, can provide an extra boost of electric power. 0-100km/h takes 5.7 seconds, which is just 0.1 seconds tardier than the V6. 

The Ghibli retains its brisk dynamism. The ride is on the firmer side, but as a result body control is good, and the well-judged steering means that the Ghibli is prompt through corners.

It looks kinda different, too?

Elsewhere, the Ghibli Hybrid gets some very subtle detailing to highlight its new electric approach. You will find blue trim on the three traditional air ducts on the front mudguard, and the thunderbolt on the pillar Maserati logo is blue as well.

The Ghibli Hybrid also debuts a new front grille, as well as a new light cluster at the rear. These changes will be found on all MY21 Ghiblis, so the Ghibli Hybrid is just the first model that features these changes.

Inside, the Ghibli remains a classy and elegant vehicle. New for MY21 is a larger 10.1-inch infotainment system running a new generation interface. This new system also allows wireless Apple CarPlay, which is a really handy feature. Also new for MY21 is wireless charging, accessed via a smartphone compartment that can be pushed to pop out the tray on which you place your smartphone.

Beyond that, the Ghibli retains all the qualities that you expect from a Maserati. There's a high level of craftsmanship, as well as generous use of luxurious materials throughout the cabin, including plush leather and elegant wood trimming, and a Harmon Kardon sound system as standard.

What's the difference?

If it's sheer fuel savings you are after, this Ghibli Hybrid isn't it. Maserati says that this new powerplant offers a 20% fuel saving compared to the V6 petrol engine. That's quite believable, but at the same time that's not really saying a lot. Maseratis aren't exactly known to be very fuel efficient cars in the first place. And considering the rather high state of tune of the 2.0-litre engine, don't expect miracles as far as fuel economy is concerned.

Against the competition, the Ghibli Hybrid will also struggle on the efficiency front. BMW and Mercedes-Benz both produces plug-in hybrid executive saloons that are much more efficient, and notably cheaper too.

This new model isn't likely going to draw in many new customers. It's still very much going to be a car that will appeal to fans of the brand - individuals who want the keen styling, lavish interior and relative exclusivity of owning a Maserati here in Singapore.

On that front, the Ghibli Hybrid delivers. It's still one of the prettiest-looking cars in its segment, the interior is lavish and comfortable, and the updates for MY21 help elevate the overall experience. Does it really matter that it's a mild hybrid? To the brand, most certainly. This new powertrain will help it meet stricter emissions standards. To the typical Maserati consumer? Probably not. It's still a Maserati, through and through.