Maserati Ghibli (2013–2022): The Italian sedan that charms, growls, and occasionally surprises
I’ve spent enough time with the Maserati Ghibli—most recently a 2019 Ghibli S Q4—to know it’s not the safe, spreadsheet pick. It’s the emotional one. The one you choose because the driveway deserves a bit of theatre and your morning commute needs a soundtrack. From its 2013 debut to its 2022 farewell tour, the Maserati Ghibli remained that rare luxury sedan with character baked in: sharp steering, a genuinely soulful engine note, and styling that makes your neighbor’s executive saloon look like office furniture.
The Maserati Ghibli story (2013–2022): What changed and why it mattered
When the Maserati Ghibli landed in 2013, it aimed squarely at the German establishment. Under the hood sat Ferrari-assembled twin-turbo V6s—one of the Ghibli’s enduring calling cards. Early cars offered around 345 hp (Ghibli) or about 404 hp (Ghibli S), later rising to roughly 424 hp in the S. Rear-drive or Q4 all-wheel drive, a snappy 8-speed automatic, and that unmistakable snarl when you prod it past 3,000 rpm.
Updates came steadily. A 2017 refresh sharpened the design and polished the cabin; driver aids expanded around 2018. By 2021, the Ghibli gained a new 10.1-inch infotainment setup and, in some markets, a mild-hybrid four-cylinder option. And then—because Maserati does flair—the final act: the Ghibli Trofeo with a twin-turbo V8 and a straight-face 580 hp. That one’s a proper curtain call.
Performance and feel: The Maserati Ghibli at its best
Specs never tell the full story, but for context:
- Ghibli V6 (approx. 345 hp): 0–60 mph in the mid-5-second range.
- Ghibli S / S Q4 (up to ~424 hp): 0–60 mph in the high 4s.
- Ghibli Trofeo V8 (~580 hp): 0–60 mph around 3.7 seconds. Yes, it’ll make you grin.
- Fuel economy: generally low-to-mid 20s mpg combined for V6 models if you behave—no promises if you don’t.
Numbers aside, what I noticed right away was the steering. It’s quick and feelsome, with a satisfying weight that makes city corners and fast sweepers equally engaging. The ride, on 20-inch wheels, can thud over sharp bumps—switch to 19s and adaptive dampers if your local roads resemble a lunar surface. Brakes are strong but can feel a touch grabby at low speed. Small quirks, big personality.
Inside the Maserati Ghibli: Craft, comfort, and a few quirks
Slip in and you’re greeted by rich materials—Poltrona Frau leather, optional Zegna silk inserts—and a driving position that feels set up for, well, driving. The front seats are spot on for long stints; the rear bench is adequate for adults on a dinner run, less so for a cross-country trek if your friends play center in the NBA. Trunk space is usable for a golf weekend, and the cabin hush at 70 mph is impressive enough to hear your kids argue about who called shotgun first.
Tech evolved across the run. Earlier cars used an FCA-derived 8.4-inch system; it worked fine but had the occasional stutter and dated graphics. From 2021, the new 10.1-inch interface felt modern, faster, and finally worthy of the badge. Driver aids such as adaptive cruise and lane-centric helpers arrived too, and they’re tuned to be more discreet than fussy—thank you, Maserati.
Maserati Ghibli vs the usual suspects
If you’re cross-shopping, here’s the quick-and-dirty snapshot I keep in my notebook. Consider the vibe as much as the numbers.
| Model | Power (approx.) | 0–60 mph (approx.) | What stands out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maserati Ghibli S Q4 | 424 hp V6 TT | 4.7–4.9 s | Steering feel, soundtrack, design drama |
| Porsche Panamera 4 | 325 hp V6 TT | ~5.3 s | Pinpoint chassis, polished tech |
| BMW M550i xDrive | 523 hp V8 TT | ~3.6 s | Brutal speed, killer value in the used market |
| Mercedes-AMG E 53 | 429 hp I6 MHEV | ~4.4 s | Slick interior, refined powertrain |
| Audi A6 55 TFSI | 335 hp V6 | ~5.1 s | Quiet confidence, tech-first cabin |
Maserati Ghibli ownership notes: Costs, care, and common questions
- Maintenance: Annual service is a good idea even on low miles. Tires and brakes aren’t cheap—budget accordingly.
- Reliability: A few owners mentioned minor electrical gremlins on early cars and occasional infotainment hiccups; later cars improved. Keep service history tidy and software current.
- Ride and noise: The cabin is properly quiet at speed. Big wheels look ace but amplify sharp impacts—spec smart if you live with rough roads.
Personal favorite spec for the Maserati Ghibli
Ghibli S Q4, 19-inch wheels, adaptive dampers, Bowers & Wilkins audio, driver-assist pack, and a bold exterior color (Blu Emozione with a tan cabin if you’re asking). Perfect for Friday night dinners and Sunday morning canyon runs. And yes, it does the airport run with drama—just enough to make valet smile.
Protecting your Ghibli’s cabin: AutoWin floor mats that actually fit
When I tried a set of custom mats on a 2018 Ghibli S, the difference was instant—no sliding, no odd gaps around the pedals, and they caught winter slush like a pro. If you want plug-and-play protection, the tailored options below are worth a look.
At AutoWin, you’ll find options tailored for the Maserati Ghibli (2013–2022). From durable all-weather sets to premium finishes, they’re designed to take the daily abuse—coffee runs, beach sand, snow boots—without spoiling the aesthetic.
- Tailored fit for 2013–2022 Ghibli models
- Materials from hard-wearing synthetics to Alcantara accents
- Easy to clean, anti-slip backing, OEM-style anchoring
- Color and stitching options to match your interior
Is the Maserati Ghibli right for you?
If you want a luxury sedan that feels special every single time you drive it, the Maserati Ghibli belongs on your shortlist. It’s not the quietest kid at the back of the class. It’s the one telling better stories. From 2013 to 2022, the Ghibli stayed true to its brief: a premium, emotive Italian alternative to the usual suspects. And that, honestly, is the whole point.
FAQ: Maserati Ghibli (2013–2022)
- Is the Maserati Ghibli reliable? With proper maintenance and up-to-date software, many owners report solid experiences. Earlier cars can have minor electrical or infotainment gremlins; later models improved. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is smart.
- What does a used Maserati Ghibli cost? Prices vary by year, mileage, spec, and condition. The S and Trofeo command premiums. For exact figures, check local listings or contact a Maserati dealer.
- Does the Maserati Ghibli use a Ferrari engine? The V6 (and V8 in the Trofeo) were assembled by Ferrari for Maserati, and you can hear the lineage every time you press the starter.
- How fast is the Maserati Ghibli? A Ghibli S Q4 can dip under 5 seconds 0–60 mph, while the Trofeo hammers to 60 mph in the high-3s. The base V6 is no slouch either.
- What are must-have options on a Ghibli? Adaptive dampers, upgraded audio (Bowers & Wilkins), driver-assist pack, and if you value comfort, 19-inch wheels over 20s for nicer ride quality.
