The Maserati Ghibli III, specifically the S 3.0 V6 (430 Hp) Automatic variant produced from 2017 to August 2018, represents a significant refresh of the M157 generation Ghibli. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle facelift, this model aimed to enhance the Ghibli’s appeal by refining its styling, improving interior appointments, and bolstering performance. Positioned as a high-performance trim within the Ghibli lineup, it sat above the base model and offered a more engaging driving experience than the diesel variants. The Ghibli III, built on the M157 platform, was Maserati’s attempt to capture a larger share of the executive sedan market, competing with established German rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Maserati |
| Model | Ghibli |
| Generation | Ghibli III (M157, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | S 3.0 V6 (430 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | August, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 223 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 286 km/h (177.71 mph) |
| Power | 430 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 580 Nm @ 2250-4000 rpm (427.79 lb.-ft. @ 2250-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M156B |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4971 mm (195.71 in.) |
| Width | 1945 mm (76.57 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2128 mm (83.78 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2998 mm (118.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1653 mm (65.08 in.) |
| Front overhang | 935 mm (36.81 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1038 mm (40.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Type of gearbox | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | Front: 235/50 R18, Rear: 275/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | Front: 18, Rear: 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Ghibli S Q4 Automatic lies Maserati’s 3.0-liter V6 engine, designated the M156B. This engine utilizes a 60-degree V-angle configuration and employs a direct fuel injection system coupled with twin turbochargers. The twin-turbo setup, with one turbocharger per cylinder bank, provides a significant boost in power and torque, delivering 430 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque between 2,250 and 4,000 rpm. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 9.7:1. The automatic transmission is an 8-speed unit sourced from ZF, known for its smooth and responsive shifts. This transmission is crucial in managing the engine’s power output and providing a comfortable driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The Ghibli S 3.0 V6 Automatic delivers a compelling blend of performance and luxury. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering quick and seamless gear changes. While not as overtly sporty as some of its German competitors, the Ghibli S provides ample acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds. The power delivery is smooth and linear, thanks to the twin-turbochargers, minimizing turbo lag. Compared to the base Ghibli models, the S variant offers a noticeably more engaging driving experience, while the automatic transmission provides convenience and ease of use, albeit at the expense of some driver involvement compared to the available manual transmission in other Ghibli trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ghibli S 3.0 V6 Automatic came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a premium sound system. Standard safety features included a suite of airbags, ABS, and stability control. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. The interior design emphasized Italian craftsmanship and luxury, with high-quality materials and attention to detail. The facelifted 2017 model also received updates to the infotainment system and interior trim options.
Chassis & Braking
The Ghibli S utilizes a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The chassis is designed to balance performance and comfort, offering a stable and predictable driving experience. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The car also incorporates ABS and electronic stability control to enhance safety. The suspension tuning is geared towards grand touring, prioritizing comfort over outright track performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2017-2018 Maserati Ghibli S 3.0 V6 Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, luxurious interior, and strong performance. However, some critics noted that its fuel economy was not as competitive as some of its rivals, and its reliability record was somewhat mixed. Compared to the Ghibli’s diesel variants, the S model offered significantly more performance and a more engaging driving experience. Compared to the higher-performance Ghibli Trofeo, the S model offered a more balanced blend of performance and comfort, making it a more practical choice for everyday driving.
Legacy
The Maserati Ghibli S 3.0 V6 Automatic, while a relatively short-lived variant, remains a desirable option in the used car market. The M156B engine, while requiring regular maintenance, is generally considered robust when properly cared for. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional turbocharger problems. However, with diligent maintenance, these engines can provide years of reliable service. The Ghibli S represents a compelling alternative to the established German luxury sedans, offering a unique blend of Italian style, performance, and luxury.
