2017 Maserati Ghibli S Facelift Review: 410 HP, Design, Pros

The 2017 Maserati Ghibli S facelift represents a significant evolution for Maserati’s midsize luxury sedan, incorporating substantial mechanical and aesthetic refinements that elevate its presence in a segment dominated by German powerhouses. This update, claimed by the manufacturer to be 70 percent new, focuses on improving drivability, efficiency, and modern safety integration while preserving the model’s signature Italian charisma.

Design Evolution and Exterior Refinements

Maserati has artfully enhanced the Ghibli S’s exterior with subtle yet impactful changes that amplify its sporting elegance. The front fascia now features sleeker LED headlights with adaptive functionality, providing better illumination and a more aggressive stance. The grille and bumper redesigns contribute to a lower, wider appearance, especially in GranSport trim, which emphasizes performance-oriented styling with pronounced air intakes and sportier wheel arches.

In GranLusso configuration, the look shifts toward opulence, with polished chrome accents and softer lines that highlight luxury over aggression. New alloy wheel options, ranging from 19 to 21 inches, fill the arches more assertively, complemented by updated side skirts and rear diffuser elements. These modifications ensure the Ghibli stands out on the road, blending classic Trident heritage with contemporary flair that turns heads in urban or coastal settings.

• Key exterior highlights: Adaptive LED headlights, revised grille, larger wheel options, GranSport/GranLusso variants.
• Improved aerodynamics for better efficiency without sacrificing visual drama.
• Available Nerissimo edition with gloss-black trim for a stealthy aesthetic.

Interior Upgrades and Cabin Comfort

Inside, the 2017 Ghibli S delivers a cockpit that feels both sporty and upscale, with high-quality leather upholstery, supportive front seats designed for long-haul grand touring, and metallic accents throughout. The dashboard layout centers around an upgraded 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which offers intuitive navigation, Apple CarPlay compatibility in later updates, and sharper graphics for a more premium user experience.

Front passengers enjoy ample space and ergonomic seating with heating and ventilation options, but rear accommodations remain tighter than rivals like the Mercedes E-Class, limiting comfort for taller adults on extended trips. The revised center console includes a rotary controller for smoother operation, and ambient lighting enhances the mood. Sport packages add carbon-fiber trim, Alcantara inserts, and bolstered seats for a racier vibe.

While some plastic elements betray cost-saving measures shared with Fiat Chrysler parts bins, the overall ambiance exudes Italian craftsmanship that rivals lack in emotional appeal.

Powertrain and Performance Dynamics

At the heart of the Ghibli S lies a Ferrari-sourced 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 410 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (or all-wheel drive in Q4 variants). This setup delivers brisk acceleration, with 0-60 mph in around 4.7-5.0 seconds, though it falls short of the explosive surge from Mercedes-AMG E63 or Jaguar XFR models.

The twin-turbo exhibits minimal lag, building to a crescendo of power accompanied by a throaty exhaust note that defines the Maserati character. Fuel economy stands at 16 city/24 highway mpg, respectable for the class, aided by the new electric power steering that improves efficiency. Drive modes—Comfort, Sport, and Corsa—allow tailoring of throttle response, exhaust, and suspension, though even in Comfort, the ride transmits more road imperfections than expected.

• Engine specs: 3.0L twin-turbo V6, 410 hp, 406 lb-ft.
• Transmission: 8-speed auto with paddle shifters.
• Q4 AWD enhances traction in adverse conditions without compromising agility.

Handling and Steering Revolution

The standout mechanical change is the switch to electric power steering, replacing the previous hydraulic system. This delivers precise, weighted feedback that transforms the Ghibli into a sharper handler on twisty roads, with minimal understeer and composed cornering despite its 4,000+ pound curb weight.

Optional Skyhook adaptive dampers provide adjustable firmness, but critics note the ride remains firm, bordering on harsh over rough surfaces. Body control in Sport mode is good but not class-leading, making it ideal for enthusiastic drivers seeking engagement over outright plushness.

Safety Innovations and Driver Aids

Maserati equipped the 2017 Ghibli with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), earning top marks from Euro NCAP and IIHS. Features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Intelligent LED headlights with auto high beams and a surround-view camera further bolster safety and convenience.

These additions make the Ghibli as secure as modern luxury sedans, with a five-star crash rating across categories.

Pricing, Trims, and Ownership Considerations

Starting at around $71,600 for the base Ghibli, the S trim escalates to $80,000+, with Q4 adding $2,500-$3,000 for all-wheel drive. Packages like Sport (adaptive suspension, 21-inch wheels) or Luxury (extended leather, premium audio) push prices toward $90,000. Maintenance costs are higher than German peers due to exotic branding, but a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty provides reassurance.

Resale values hold decently for enthusiasts, though reliability concerns linger from early models; the facelift addresses some electronics issues.

Competitive Landscape

In a field with BMW M5, Audi S6, and Porsche Panamera, the Ghibli S distinguishes itself through style and sound rather than raw specs. It lacks the E63’s brutality or Panamera’s tech overload but offers unique charm for buyers prioritizing flair over perfection.

Pros and Cons Summary

• Pros: Stunning design, engaging handling, Ferrari-derived engine growl, upgraded infotainment, strong safety suite.
• Cons: Firm ride, modest acceleration vs. rivals, tight rear space, higher ownership costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2017 Maserati Ghibli S reliable?

While improved over earlier years, it scores average in reliability surveys due to electronic and turbo complexities. Regular servicing at authorized dealers is key.

How does the Ghibli S compare to the BMW 5 Series M Sport?

The Ghibli offers more emotional driving rewards and exotic styling, but the BMW provides superior ride comfort, space, and long-term dependability.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Expect 16/24 mpg city/highway; real-world figures hover around 19 combined, better than V8 rivals but thirstier than hybrids.

Should I get RWD or Q4 AWD?

Q4 excels in wet/snowy climates with confidence-inspiring traction; RWD suits dry-road enthusiasts for purer dynamics.

Is the infotainment system user-friendly?

The 8.4-inch screen and rotary dial make it intuitive, though navigation can occasionally glitch; it’s a step up from pre-facelift units.