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Overview

With a twin-turbocharged V-6 or V-8 engine under its shapely hood, the 2021 Maserati Ghibli is the Italian thoroughbred of the mid-size luxury sedan marketplace.

This hot-blooded four-door looks the part, too, with its aggressive, swept-back headlamps, bodacious body sides, and distinctive fender vents.

Most models get the V-6, which makes either 345 or 424 horsepower and can be had with rear- or all-wheel drive.

Opt for the V-8–powered Trofeo and the Maserati will swap the V-6 for a Ferrari-derived, 580-hp twin-turbo V-8.

No matter the engine, the Ghibli rewards its driver with an athletic chassis and a growling exhaust note.

Unfortunately, the sedan isn't as proficient at hauling people, as its rear seat is less spacious than the Audi A6 or Mercedes-Benz E-class

Plus, Maserati has borrowed several low-rent switches and knobs from elsewhere in the Fiat-Chrysler portfolio.

Still, the Ghibli's cabin can be optioned with all manner of luxury materials, including leather-and-silk upholstery from Italian fashion house Ermenegildo Zegna, which add an undeniably upscale ambiance.

What's New for 2021?

Like its siblings—the Quattroporte sedan and the Levante SUV—the Ghibli now comes in a racy Trofeo trim powered by a 580-hp twin-turbo V-8.

Opting for the range-topping Trofeo also adds a limited-slip rear differential and a Corsa driving mode with launch control.

All Ghibli models receive a new infotainment system for 2021, which includes a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen display, a voice-activated virtual assistant, and an available wireless charging pad.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Base: $71,000 (est.)
S: $76,000 (est.)
GranLusso: $78,000 (est.)
GranSport: $78,000 (est.)
GranLusso Q4: $85,000 (est.)
GranSport: Q4: $85,000 (est.)
Trofeo: $130,000 (est.)

If the Ghibli's starting price seems high, that's because it is. Most mid-size luxury sedans start around $55,000 and increase from there.

But those rival sedans also start with turbocharged four-cylinders and then graduate to higher-powered V-6 engines as the price rises.

The Ghibli skips the four-cylinders and offers a twin-turbo V-6 as standard equipment. I'd suggest the S model as it unlocks the engine's full 424 ponies and covers more of the Ghibli's interior with genuine leather upholstery.

Vernieuwde Maserati Ghibli nu ook als Hybrid – Autointernationaal.nl

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The base setup for the Ghibli is a 345-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 with rear-wheel drive; the S performance version ups the power to 424 horsepower.

Going with the range-topping Trofeo model adds a 580-hp twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-8 engine.

Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive (Q4 in Maserati parlance) is available with the V-6. Both engines have an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Today it can be outrun by a non-AMG version of the Mercedes-Benz E-class. Since then, Maserati has upped the power on S models from 404 to 424 ponies.

The engine in the Maserati Levante SUV manages a time of 5.1 seconds, so the lighter Ghibli should be noticeably quicker.

The Ghibli's on-road demeanor is frisky but it maintains a level of refinement that keeps it in the hunt with some of today's best luxury sport sedans.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Since the Ghibli lacks a base four-cylinder model, its EPA fuel-economy ratings are thirstier than the average mid-size luxury car.

The rear-wheel-drive V-6 models earn ratings of 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway; going for all-wheel drive drops the city rating to 16 mpg. The EPA hasn't released fuel economy estimates for the V-8–powered Trofeo.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

While the exterior exudes Italian style, the cabin isn't as luxurious as expected. A few of its interior bits are sourced from lesser vehicles within the Fiat-Chrysler product portfolio.

For example: it uses the same window switches as the Jeep Cherokee and light switches and steering-column stalks from the now-defunct Chrysler Town & Country.

Buyers can, however, spec the Ghibli with beautifully stitched leather-and-silk seats, a faux-suede headliner, and a wood-rimmed steering wheel.

The Ghibli's trunk is larger than that of the E-class or the A6, but the BMW M5-series offers slightly more space.

Infotainment and Connectivity

All Ghibli models come with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that features a glossy display and runs a re-skinned version Google's Android Automotive interface.

Navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all standard.

An eight-speaker audio system is standard, too, but audiophiles will be happy to know that Maserati offers two different premium systems as upgrades.

The first is a 10-speaker Harman/Kardon setup while the second is a 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. A wireless charging pad is a new feature for 2021.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not performed crash tests on a Ghibli, but the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has.

The Ghibli performed well in IIHS's crash tests but missed out on a Top Safety Pick designation because the agency has yet to test the car's headlamp performance or driver-assistance features.

Key safety features include:

Available automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Available lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
Available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode
2021 Maserati Ghibli
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Most mid-size luxury cars from Europe offer simple four-year/50,000-mile warranties, and the Ghibli follows suit.

It would be nice if Maserati offered a complimentary scheduled maintenance package with the purchase of a new Ghibli, but such a policy has been omitted from the car's standard package.

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The 5-series and the Jaguar XF both offer better value in this category.

Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
Power-train warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
No complimentary scheduled maintenance.
2021 Maserati Ghibli

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Sunday, September 6, 2020

2021 Maserati Levante Review

Overview

There's something about the 2021 Maserati Levante that just screams Italian exclusivity. Perhaps it’s the SUV's seductive bodywork or it distinctive trident logo in the grille.

More likely, it's the Levante's hot-blooded power-trains, which emit intoxicating sounds through its exhaust pipes.

While many of its rivals start with a turbocharged four-cylinder and graduate to a V-6, the Levante skips the four, offers a twin-turbo V-6 as standard, and allows buyers to opt for a 590-hp twin-turbo V-8.

Maserati also offers traditional Italian luxury inside, including optional leather-and-silk upholstery. But, due to some unfortunate parts sharing with more common Jeep models, the Levante's luxury cabin isn't fully realized.

Still, its boutique nature and head-turning styling makes it a desirable choice for buyers whose neighborhoods are already filled to the brim with SUVs from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.

What's New for 2021?

The Levante receives Maserati's new infotainment interface for 2021, but unlike its sedan siblings—the Ghibli and Quattroporte—it sticks with an 8.4-inch display.

The new software is based on Google's Android Automotive and offers a voice-activated virtual assistant, in-dash navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto; a wireless charging pad is also new this year.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Base: $74,000 (est.)
GranLusso: $80,000 (est.)
GranSport: $80,000 (est.)
S: $85,000 (est.)
GTS: $122,000 (est.)
Trofeo: $173,000 (est.)

Although it adds more than $10,000 to the bottom line, I'd spring for the S model and its more powerful twin-turbocharged V-6 engine.

The S also adds 19-inch wheels with a staggered setup, a leather interior with stitched dashboard and door panels, and steering column-mounted paddle shifters.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

While the Levante is not the quickest or the most powerful performance-oriented luxury crossover, it certainly plays one of the better soundtracks.

Under the hood of most Levante models is a twin-turbocharged V-6 routing its 345 horsepower—or 424 horses in the S—to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic. In our testing of a Levante S, it delivers a zero-to-60-mph time of 5.1 seconds, besting the Mercedes-AMG GLE53.

The GTS and Trofeo models come with a twin-turbo V-8 making 550 and 590 horsepower, respectively. The GTS launches itself to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, while the Trofeo does it in 3.6. With its adaptive shocks set in Sport mode, the Levante's ride is jarring when driving over all but the smoothest road surfaces.

Comfort levels are much more agreeable, though hardly supple, with the shocks in their default setting.

Practical Italian: Second Maserati SUV Coming in 2021

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

On paper, the Levante is no fuel-sipper. In fact, its EPA estimates for V-6 models are closer to V-8–powered rivals than to other V-6s.

According to research, the V-6 has a highway fuel-economy is much higher than its ratings suggested with a 24 mpg; the V-8–powered GTS also out-performs its EPA rating and delivers 20 mpg.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

At first glance, the inside of the Levante appears rich and well-appointed, especially in our Levante S, which features the full-leather treatment in a rich dark-brown hue.

Open-pore wood trim, a leather-covered dashboard, tasteful chrome accents, and the traditional Maserati analog clock all give the Levante a classy and old-school luxury ambience.

Looking closer, however, reveals parts that are obviously shared with other Fiat Chrysler brands—for example, the window switches, wiper-control stalk, and ignition button are the same as the Jeep Cherokee's—which is a disappointment.

The controls are functional, though, and better than some of the ergonomically questionable examples Maserati has come up with on its own over the years. Speaking of ergonomics, the driving position in the Levante is great and clearly set up for spirited motoring.

Like a pair of Versace stilettos, the Levante puts a big emphasis on style. Its cargo area still accommodates a respectable number of carry-on suitcases (eight behind the rear seat, 19 with the rear seats folded), even if others in this segment fared much better.

Park them all side by side, however, and the Maserati's bravura overshadows the practicality of its rivals.

Levante | Maserati, Maserati interior, Maserati suv

Infotainment and Connectivity

I haven't had the chance to try Maserati's new infotainment interface, but it's said to be brilliantly rendered on the Levante's 8.4-inch touchscreen.

Most vehicle functions, including the climate controls, are adjusted through the infotainment display, but the system also offers a voice-activated virtual assistant. Navigation is standard, as are SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

A wireless charging pad has been added as well. Although an eight-speaker stereo system is standard, buyers can upgrade to either a 14-speaker Harman/Kardon setup or a 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system.

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Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Levante has not been crash-tested; as a result, its performance in this area remains unknown. A few driver-assistance features are standard, and other more advanced tech is optional across the range.

Key safety features include:

Standard automatic high-beam headlamps
Standard blind-spot monitoring
Available automated emergency braking
2021 Maserati Levante

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Levante's warranty is nothing special, with a four-year or 50,000-mile policy covering everything, including corrosion protection and roadside assistance.

Rivals offer something special to stand out from the crowd, such as complimentary scheduled maintenance or an unlimited-mileage roadside-assistance plan—but not Maserati.

Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
Power-train warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
No complimentary scheduled maintenance.
2021 Maserati Levante

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Saturday, September 5, 2020

2021 Mazda CX-5 Review

Overview

When it comes to compact crossovers, it's easy to see why the 2021 Mazda CX-5 wins the SUV equivalent of Best-in- Show.

Not only does it boast beautifully sculpted bodywork, its interior is just as interesting to the eyes. Of course, Mazda has shown us that its attention to detail is more than skin-deep, with thoughtful ergonomics and engaging driving dynamics.

Compared with its predominantly dull competitors, the CX-5 is delightfully athletic and equally refined.

While the standard four-cylinder engine lacks the punch of the available turbo-four, both pair with a highly proficient automatic transmission and are more fuel efficient than their EPA ratings suggest.

Despite a smaller cargo area than its key competitors, the 2021 CX-5 shines brighter than all its classmates and even some more-expensive alternatives.

What's New for 2021?

For 2021, the most notable upgrade made to the CX-5 is its new infotainment system.

A 10.3-inch touchscreen now sits atop the dashboard instead of the smaller 7.0-inch display found on previous model years.

The updated system features the new Mazda Connect interface, Mazda Connected Services (a Wi-Fi hotspot and access to remote vehicle functions through a smartphone app), and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The lineup also introduces a new Carbon Edition, which has unique Polymetal Gray paint and red upholstery.

The top-of-the-line Signature trim adds a higher-definition 360-degree camera, a driver-attention alert, and rear automated emergency braking.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Sport: $26,370
Touring: $28,110
Carbon Edition: $29,955
Grand Touring: $31,560
Grand Touring Reserve: $36,385
Signature: $38,505

With the addition of the CX-5 Carbon Edition, it's now possible to get the 250-hp turbocharged engine without paying for either of the top two trim levels.

The front-drive version starts at just under $30,000, but those who want all-wheel drive can add it for $1400.

Not only does the Carbon Edition have all the same features as the Touring model with the Preferred SV package (Bose stereo, a power-adjustable passenger seat, power lift-gate, sunroof, and more), it also has distinct exterior and interior treatments.

The former includes black 19-inch wheels and a black metallic grille design; the latter includes red leather seats with red stitching and black accents on the instrument and door panels.

2020 Mazda CX-5: Review, Trims, Specs, Price, New Interior Features, Exterior Design, and Specifications | CarBuzz

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The CX-5's standard 187-hp four-cylinder engine has great throttle response when pulling away from stoplights or hustling around town, so it feels quicker than it actually is.

It's at higher speeds, such as when trying to pass or merge onto the freeway, that it feels under-powered. The 250-hp turbocharged provides much quicker acceleration.

Both engines pair with a snappy six-speed automatic transmission and front- or all-wheel drive. You don't need to drive the CX-5 hard to enjoy it or to appreciate its excellence. Sure, its precise steering and composed cornering make for one helluva Sunday cruise.

But it also soaks up rough roads without commotion and has the ride quality of crossovers that cost twice as much. This harmonious interplay of dynamics is unrivaled by its competitors. Pavement imperfections are isolated, road noise is minimal, and the damping is neither stiff nor floaty.

At the same time, the Mazda comes alive on curvy roads. The electrically assisted steering provides satisfying responses.

The Signature model has a reassuring brake-pedal feel that operates without delay and without being too touchy when you apply the brakes.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The CX-5 has average EPA estimates compared with rivals that have similar power. However, According to research, the Mazda was the only one to exceed its EPA highway rating.

The all-wheel-drive, non-turbocharged version earned 32 mpg. The front-drive, non-turbo CX-5 improved on that performance by 1 mpg.

The CX-5 with the more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder and standard all-wheel drive earned 30 mpg, which was 3 mpg higher than its EPA rating.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Wake up inside the top-tier CX-5 models and you might think you've been abducted by kidnappers driving an Audi or a Mercedes. First-rate materials and a fabulous layout make it feel especially upscale.

The floor-hinged accelerator pedal feels better than the more common version that is suspended above the floor, the well-crafted steering wheel is directly in front of the driver and not offset at a slight angle, and all of the front-seat armrests are at the same height for optimal comfort.

Sacrifices come in small packages: in this case, the CX-5 held just nine carry-on suitcases behind its rear seats.

The storage bay does benefit from a completely flat load floor. There are also several nooks and crannies in the cabin to store smartphones and other small items.

For instance, the center console has a deep tray at the front and a useful bin with a removable shelf.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every model now boasts a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which replaces the old 7.0-inch display.

The new interface can still be manipulated through a rotary controller and volume knob on the center console as well as voice commands and buttons on the steering wheel.

Unlike the previous model year, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board.

The CX-5 also comes with Mazda Connected Services that includes access to remote vehicle functions via a smartphone app and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot.