Introducing New Trim Lines

Maserati's three models have been updated to their 2018 versions and were unveiled simultaneously.

There are three common points for the three models announced this time. First, two trim options, "GranLusso" and "GranSport," have been set (already available for theQuattroportealready). Second, the advanced driver-assistance system "ADAS" has evolved to ADAS 2, with the adoption of electric power steering. Finally, soft-close doors (auto-closing doors) have been equipped.

GranLusso emphasizes Maserati's luxury even further. GranSport, as the name suggests, emphasizes a sportier image. In addition to these trim options, a standard specification is also available, allowing for a total of three specifications to choose from.

Maserati Ghibli GranLusso

Maserati Ghibli GranSport

Ghibli: Further Evolved with Two Trim Options and ADAS 2

The most significant changes this time are to the four-door sedan, theGhibli. With the adoption of two trim options, the front and rear bumper shapes have been changed. This has improved the Cd value from 0.31 to 0.29, simultaneously enhancing fuel efficiency.

In the GranSport trim option, the grille is black and the bumper shape has been altered to give a sportier impression. Furthermore, the rear combination lamps have also been changed, and a GranSport logo has been placed below the front fenders.

The interior features sports seats, sports pedals, and a sports steering wheel with paddle shifters, further enhancing the sporty impression.

Maserati Ghibli GranSport

In contrast, the GranLusso's front grille features chrome accents, and the front bumper shape has been modified for a more elegant design. The sides are similarly equipped with GranLusso badges. The shape of the taillights has been updated to a new design, similar to the GranSport.

The interior, like the Quattroporte, comes standard with seats combining silk and leather, a collaboration with Ermenegildo Zegna, along with wood trim and a Harman Kardon premium sound system, further emphasizing Maserati's elegance.

Driving Assistance Systems Evolved

The engines introduced for the 2018 model year are diesel and gasoline engines, with two types of gasoline engines. One of them, the V6 engine in the "SQ4," has been upgraded from 410ps to 430ps, with an additional 30Nm of torque. There are no changes to the drivetrain, which remains FR and AWD (gasoline only). The 8-speed automatic transmission continues to be used.

In terms of technology, the Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC) system, an evolution of the previous stability control, has been installed. It predicts and corrects unstable vehicle movements. Additionally, adaptive full LED headlights using matrix technology have been newly equipped, enhancing the design with a sharper look and improving visibility by 20 percent.

Maserati Ghibli GranLusso

Maserati Ghibli GranSport

Finally, the advanced driver-assistance system has become "ADAS 2." The 2017 model was equipped with ADAS, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, and a Surround View Camera. For the 2018 model, three new functions have been added: Active Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keep Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

The grade structure includes the diesel engine "Ghibli Diesel," and for the gasoline engines, "Ghibli," "Ghibli S," and "Ghibli SQ4." For all of these, the GranLusso and GranSport trim options are available.

Furthermore, with combinations of interior and exterior colors, there are 10 exterior options, 9 wheel types, 5 brake caliper colors, 9 interior colors, and 6 trim options, allowing for nearly 25,000 possible combinations, enabling customers to create a vehicle tailored to their preferences.

Regarding this new Ghibli, Guido Giovannelli, President of Maserati Japan, commented, "This is a model I personally consider the most beautiful Maserati. It also accounts for one-third of Maserati Japan's sales."

Levante: Right-Hand Drive Gasoline Engine Introduced

The SUV model "Levante," introduced in Japan at the end of 2016, has also received minor improvements for the 2018 model year. The biggest point is the addition of a right-hand drive option for the gasoline model, which was previously only available in left-hand drive. Giovannelli stated, "The proportion of diesel sales, which has been very high until now, is expected to decrease."LevanteThe Levante also offers GranLusso and GranSport trim options. The GranLusso features a chrome grille and a metallic finish on the protective plate (front underbody cover), emphasizing elegance in its exterior. The interior, similar to the Ghibli, features a combination of silk and leather from Ermenegildo Zegna, along with wood trim and a Harman Kardon sound system.

The GranSport enhances its sporty impression with a black grille, protective plate, and brake calipers. The interior is equipped with sports seats, sports pedals, and a sports steering wheel.

Maserati Levante GranLusso

Maserati Levante GranLusso

Quattroporte: Enhanced Power Unit

Maserati's flagship sedan, the Quattroporte, also features an enhanced power unit for its 2018 model year. The 3.0-liter V6 engine in the "Quattroporte S" and "Quattroporte SQ4" now produces 430ps and 580Nm, an increase of 20ps and 30Nm respectively. This improves the 0-100km/h acceleration to 5.0 seconds (previously 5.1 seconds) for the Quattroporte S and 4.8 seconds (previously 4.9 seconds) for the Quattroporte SQ4.

Additionally, advanced driver-assistance systems such as Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Active Blind Spot Assist (ABSA), and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), along with electric power steering (EPS), have been incorporated, bringing the driver assistance system to ADAS 2. Adaptive full LED technology is used in the headlights to improve visibility.

Maserati Quattroporte

Maserati Business Prospering Globally and in Japan

Maserati's sales performance is very strong both globally and in Japan. According to Guido Giovannelli, President of Maserati Japan, "Between 2009 and 2012, global sales were around 6,000 units per year. From 2013 onwards, with the introduction of new product ranges like the Ghibli and Quattroporte, sales increased to approximately 12,000 units, reaching 32,000 units in 2014 and 2015, and 42,100 units in 2016. For 2017, with the Levante being sold for the full year, sales are projected to reach nearly 55,000 units."

Maserati entered the Japanese market in 1957. "Sales in 2012 were just over 300 units," said Giovannelli. However, "with the introduction of new product ranges, sales steadily increased to over 1,500 units in 2014 and 2015, and are expected to reach between 1,900 and 2,000 units in 2017." He added, "The introduction of new product ranges has been a major growth factor."

The Levante, in particular, "accounts for 50 percent of our sales in Japan. Furthermore, 90 percent of its buyers are purchasing a Maserati for the first time, allowing us to acquire new customers without cannibalizing the existing market. As a result, we have been able to achieve significant volume, which is crucial," he commented, emphasizing the strong performance of Maserati's business in Japan.