The new Maserati Ghibli Hybrid is a buzzing new riff on the OG Ghibli

After a hundred years, Maserati is switching gears. The storied Italian marque unveiled its first electric car on Thursday and kick-started its green agenda.

The Maserati Ghibli Hybrid is a buzzing new riff on the classic sports sedan (the OG Ghibli) that was first introduced to the public as concept at the Shanghai Motor Show in 2013. Now a reality, the next-gen model has been treated to a minor facelift and fitted with a hybrid powertrain.

The setup sees a turbocharged two-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt alternator and a small battery that’s mounted at the back. Combined, this produces 330hp and 450Nm of torque, which will launch the Ghibli Hybrid from zero to 100 km/hr in 5.7 seconds and allow it to reach a top speed of 255 km/hr.

While its petrol-only predecessor had 345 horses thanks to its twin-turbo three-litre V6, Ghibli 2.0 promises to be more fuel-efficient and better to the Earth. In fact, it will emit 25 per cent less CO₂ than its counterpart and it’s also 80kg lighter. Still, the automaker has ensured that the car will have that renowned Maserati roar.

Outward signs of this Ghibli’s hybrid nature are hard to come by, though we suspect that was entirely the point

In any case, despite the increased electrification and decreased cylinder count, Maserati promises the Ghibli Hybrid will still sound like a proper Maserati

In keeping with the modern theme, its cabin has also received some new screen tech

The blue accents on the signature Maserati ‘gills’ are a surefire giveaway of its hybrid drivetrain

Looks-wise, it’s not a drastic departure from the OG Ghibli, but it feels fresher. The rear end features revamped, boomerang-shaped taillights inspired by the 3200 GT and Alfieri concept, while the front received an updated grille and new headlights.

Maserati selected blue to represent its eco-friendly electric cars moving forward, and the hue can be found on the exterior accents, including the air ducts, brake calipers and the logo on the rear pillar. The colour is also used in the interior where blue seams are juxtaposed with black leather trim.

The infotainment system has also been treated to a modern revamp. The screen has grown in size to 10.1 inches and now runs on the latest Android Automotive operating system. The old-school analog gauges have been replaced by fully digital alternatives.

The Ghibli Hybrid may not be the boldest EV design on the market, but it’s a major milestone for Maserati – one that presages the marque’s future. Next year, the automaker is planning to deliver two new electric vehicles, the GranTurismo and GranCabrio. The MC20 sports car is also scheduled to debut later this year and will likely include hybrid and electric variants.

Maserati