Official images of the 2014 Maserati Ghibli have been released ahead of the car’s Shanghai Motor Show debut.
The images show a model possessed of such Maserati styling staples as the muscular front wings with a trio of gills and large, trapezoidal radiator with triangular top-section cut-out and prominent trident badge.
The 2014 Ghibli is aimed squarely at the likes of the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6 and will be underpinned by a modular chassis that, in its extended guise, will form the foundation of the next-generation Quattroporte.
The cabin features a dual cockpit layout with contrasting leather trim panels and a facia crowned with the traditional ovoid clock pod. It also appears that the new car will usher in an improved infotainment system – possibly an offshoot of Maserati’s recent co-operation with Bowers & Wilken on bespoke audio systems for the Quattroporte and GranTurismo.
A choice of two engines will be offered – a petrol unit and a diesel; both turbocharged and both displacing 3,0 litres. Both units will be mated with a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission and will be offered with a choice of rear-wheel and all-wheel Q4 drivetrains.
Maserati claims that the Ghibli will form the backbone of its plans to up annual sales to 50 000 units.