Some serious motoring today – from Maserati the latest Ghibli S sedan in GranSport form –updated for 2018 with more style and performance and some new technology – a very personalised luxury sedan with Italian flavour that really sets it apart. Now if I was going to invest nearly $200,000 in a luxury sedan this is the car I’d choose because it offers enormous individuality – the Ghibli is shorter and 50 kilos lighter to Maserati’s Flagship Quattroporte – a beautifully tailored sports sedan moderately restyled this year and more aerodynamic – The Ghibli S gaining the more potent 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 manufactured by Ferrari with nearly 600Nm of torque – linked to an eight-speed ZF automatic with manual paddles its distinctly Italian-in sport mode, the exhaust note leaving no doubt you’re driving a Maserati – that’s the appeal of this car and what sets it apart from its German competition. It offers a real point of difference with the quality of the finishes simply first class. This year’s update also brings electric power steering and it’s noticeable on a fast winding road – sharp and with great feeling just off centre. With the benefit of the Ghibli S’s full electronic suspension in two modes the ride/handling package is overtly sporty but just so comfortable – on rough country roads the ride quality on very low profile tyres was surprisingly supple. My only gripe – the small size of the cruise control graphics, tucked out of the way and difficult to read for quick reference especially in our bright sunlight. I’m David Berthon

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