Maserati Ghibli review - can the Italian exec live with the German elite? - Interior and tech
Charismatic, good looking and distinctive - but lacking in substance compared to German rivals
Interior and tech
The interior received a subtle, but worthwhile upgrade for the 2017 model year, getting an upgraded infotainment system, redesigned climate controls and a new center console. The result is an interior which, although more distinctive than most rivals, is still lacking in many areas.
The first issue is the relative lack of space. Cars in this class have grown quite rapidly in recent years, which means if you plan on often carrying passengers in the back, the admittedly vast Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5-series will be more adept.
Quality is mostly good, although the E-Class and Volvo S90 really take executive interior ambiance to the next level, and don’t forget that Audi’s forthcoming all-new A6 will also likely have something to contribute. One area that rivals can’t match though is when you spec it just right, oh does it feel special.
The optional Zegna silk upholstery trim is an inspired and typically Italian move, while the smooth leather upholstered dash and typical Maserati clock help raise the interior beyond looking like a well-appointed mission control and more like a classic high-end Maserati.
Some material choices on lower parts of the interior are best ignored, and overall build quality is still shy of class leaders, but few executive interiors will make you feel so special. The issue here is that most of what makes the interior feel special are expensive optional extras such as the circa £5k Zegna package.
