Maserati Ghibli review - Interior, design and technology

Not many cars look as dramatic as the Ghibli. The low snout takes inspiration from the GranTurismo coupe, while the distinctive trident badge (restyled for the 2021 model year) and small headlights provide a menacing look. Its front wings rise over the wheels and behind the arches is a set of three false air vents – a typical Maserati design touch – while the low roof and small glass area add to the sporty feel.

The Ghibli isn’t quite as well resolved at the rear, despite a light refresh in 2020. Maserati badges on the C-pillars are a traditional touch, but the narrow rear screen, rounded bootlid and small LED lights give it a bit of a dumpy look. Still, the quad exhausts do bring a little excitement.

There’s plenty of luxury and leather, but interior quality doesn’t feel quite on a par with its rivals. The leather-topped dashboard adds a touch of class, but the switchgear is a let-down. The hard plastic buttons aren’t very nice to use, while the window switches on the driver’s door look like poor copies of Mercedes items. The centre console gets a textured natural wood finish, but if that’s not to your taste, gloss and carbon fibre finishes are available.

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Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment

The Ghibli benefits from technology updates introduced in 2020. The driver instruments now incorporate some new digital tech, with a driver information display between the speed and rev dials.

The central touchscreen has grown to 10.1-inches and features a new user interface with updated graphics. The Ghibli is also compatible with Maserati Connect. This allows owners to control certain vehicle functions remotely via a smartphone app.

Although Apple CarPlay is standard, Maserati offers either the Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins audio systems at extra cost.