2017 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 Year 1 Lease Review and Experience

Maserati. Once a storied brand, where only the few with enough means could get their hands on one. Now owned by FCA, they decided to produce a car that is more attainable, providing an entry point into the brand and giving it more visibility. The base Ghibli, with ~330hp from a 3.0L twin turbo V6, can be had in the low $70's excluding any dealer discounts/rebates.
That's E-Class and 5-Series territory. Realistically, most people will be leasing them, and thats where the value can be had. The top of the line S Q4 with 430hp and AWD has an MSRP starting at around $80k, but most dealers are selling them for much less. Leases can be had starting at $500/mo and up, with some aggressive dealers taking nearly $20k off the selling price. For 2-3k down, you can have a payment in the 8-900$ a month range for a well-optioned SQ4, on par with the M3/4 but with the all-season practicality of AWD and a bigger trunk/back seat. Not to mention there are like a million BMW's and M-cars on the road, so who wants another one, besides the hardcore BMW guys?

Now after selling my 2015 Evo X due to the inconvenience of driving stick in New York City, and moving to a Lexus NX200, I was ready for something a bit more fun and exciting. While a very practical and comfortable car, the NX200 was slow and extremely boring to drive. I also test drove the Jaguar F-Pace, and considered the Porsche Macan, but in the end, the Maserati won with extremely attractive leases (Jaguar had like a $5k first month payment, WTF?) and the most horsepower. Also, sedan driving dynamics win out every time.

I first took the Ghibli SQ4 for a test drive at Manhattan Maserati, who were great. My salesman, Tom Hale, was especially a pleasure to deal with. The showroom was quiet, and there was no pressure or anything -- they were courteous and respectful. On to the drive -- the first thing I noticed was the sound of the car at idle. I'm used to all my cars having modified exhausts, and the throaty growl of the car while just standing still brought back memories of my Evo and Camaro. It definitely got me excited for the drive. Going up the West Side Highway with the exhaust flaps opened, the sound of the engine reverberating off the median wall at around 3-4k RPMs, was intoxicating. It reminded me of a 2JZ or GTR, but with more rasp - it definitely had its own italian flavor to it. The car pulls hard, as expected, and shifts with enthusiasm thanks to the ZF 8-speed - a solid and well-respected tranny available in many other luxury sports cars. 404 horses in the stable make for a fun ride. The interior wasn't as upscale as the Quattroporte, as thats a $100k+ car, I would put it on par with a top trim 3-series BMW. The infotainment and HVAC switches are plasticky, which you wouldn't think should be in an $80-90k car, but with discounts making it $70k, I can forgive it, as it makes up for it with its performance and character. It's an italian car after all, they aren't known particularly for build quality. The bean-counters at FCA weren't any help either, I'm sure. There are nice wood touches and the extended leather feels great. The Harmon Kardon sound system is a worthy upgrade and the stock infotainment unit is one of the best I'ved used - the screen is high-res and feels snappy. Can't say the same for the piece of sh*t Lexus puts in their cars - the thing makes the original Nintendo Game Boy feel like an Iphone X.

So yes, the car has solid driving dynamics -- good grip, steering that ISN'T completely numb, thanks to a hydraulic steering rack, and an engine with a character that isn't found in a lot of new cars today. The ride is firm, but supple enough to absorb the bumps of New York City and let you keep your teeth. So I was sold - weeks later on Black Friday, my salesman Tom called me and offered me a great deal an SQ4 with the driver assistance package (adaptive cruise, collision warning, lane assist, 360 camera & sensors, etc) with a price I could swallow of around $800 a month and $3k OTD.

Fast forward almost a year later, and the Ghibli is still going strong. The only mod I've done is disconnect the exhaust flap vacuum lines, to make it louder. And boy can it wake the neighbors now on a cold start. The dome lights went out for some odd reason about a month in, and the dealer had to keep the car for a few days to fix it. At the time, the loaner fleet was being switched out, so they couldn't give me one -- unfortunate, but I'll give them a pass this time. Every once in awhile, I get looks and compliments on the car, which is surprising considering how common Maserati's are becoming. I feel like I see a few Ghibli's everytime I go out, so over time I don't expect the same amount of attention. But anyway, I didn't buy this car for the attention -- In fact, I wish it drew less. The general populace think you must be rich if you drive a Maserati, which isn't true anymore. All you have to do is be able to afford the lease payment, which a single guy on a modest salary can do. This leads to some awkward conversations at work or with friends where people think you must make a shitton.

Anyway, I recommend this car for anyone looking for a practical, all-season, performance car. I was able to drive through snowy/slushy city roads on all seasons with confidence, and I can fit a stroller and infant car seat in it as well. The relatively large trunk was able to handle trips to Costco and the adaptive cruise made chugging through traffic a breeze. Compared ot the C-class AMG43, the Ghibli is cheaper after discounts, and has more power and character. I'm sure the AMG wins on build quality/interior amenities though. The 550i is a strong competitor with more power, but its also several hundred pounds heavier. It also looks the same as every other BMW on the road and don't think theres as many discounts on the 550 either.. So if you're in the market for a performance sedan on a lease, I'd say the Ghibli is a great value compared to it's rivals, and I suggest you go take one for a test drive!

Comments

Robinjack's picture

very good post, i definitely love this site, keep on it 일산출장마사지

Robinjack's picture

I’d need to talk with you here. Which isn’t something I usually do! I quite like reading a post that should get people to believe. Also, appreciate your permitting me to comment! 일산출장마사지

Robinjack's picture

I’ve read a few just right stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. I wonder how a lot effort you put to create this type of excellent informative site. 일산출장마사지

Robinjack's picture

Excellent read, I just passed this onto a colleague who was doing some research on that. And he just bought me lunch since I found it for him smile So let me rephrase that: Thank you for lunch! 일산출장마사지

Robinjack's picture

Iím not that much of a internet reader to be honest but your blogs really nice, keep it up! I’ll go ahead and bookmark your website to come back in the future. Cheers 일산출장마사지

Robinjack's picture

I’m impressed, I must say. Actually rarely do you encounter a blog that’s both educative and entertaining, and let me tell you, you’ve got hit the nail to the head. Your notion is outstanding; the issue is an issue that not enough people are speaking intelligently about. I am very happy that we found this at my look for something about it. 일산출장마사지

Robinjack's picture

I love reading your blog. I’ve you bookmarked your website in order to check out the latest stuff. teacher email list

Robinjack's picture

Everyone loves your site.. great colorations & theme. Would anyone style and design this website yourself as well as does you actually hire an attorney to make it happen for you personally? Plz reply as I!|m seeking to style my own, personal weblog and would wish to know where ough obtained that out of. many thanks education email list

Robinjack's picture

Cheers for this wicked post. I was wondering whether you were planning of publishing similar posts to this. .Keep up the great posts! education email list

Robinjack's picture

Great explanation about thinking long-term instead of focusing on instant wins. apiraja133

Robinjack's picture

Your guide encourages players to make thoughtful choices rather than impulsive moves. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

I appreciate the thoughtful approach toward responsible gambling. apiraja88 daftar

Robinjack's picture

Helpful pointers that guide players toward more thoughtful choices. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Excellent breakdown of habits needed for safe gambling. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Your emphasis on healthy habits ensures a safer gambling environment. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

Useful reminders that help avoid stressful gambling patterns. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

Your approach empowers players with knowledge rather than assumptions. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

Your message helps players avoid unnecessary emotional highs and lows. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

Strong points about habit awareness—important for long-term gamblers. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Good educational content encouraging smarter gambling decisions. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

Very practical advice that enhances thoughtful decision-making. apiraja88 link

Robinjack's picture

Very clear guidance on staying realistic and avoiding exaggerated expectations. apiraja88 link

Robinjack's picture

Helpful explanation on the importance of planning before placing any bets. apiraja88 daftar

Robinjack's picture

This article provides essential awareness for new gamblers. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Helpful insights on controlling losses and avoiding impulsive behavior. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

I like how your article avoids unrealistic promises. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Solid explanation of bankroll basics; beginners will appreciate it. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

Your article teaches players to pause, assess, and then make informed decisions. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

Your approach teaches players to remain calm and think clearly under pressure. apiraja88 link

Robinjack's picture

Useful techniques for avoiding rushed gambling decisions. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Robinjack's picture

Your focus on responsible gambling makes this content valuable to many readers. apiraja88 link

Robinjack's picture

The awareness you promote helps players avoid stress-driven decisions. apiraja126

Robinjack's picture

Excellent clarity on preventing mistakes caused by excitement or rush. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Your suggestions help players prevent emotional tilt and reckless choices. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

Strong points on evaluating risks before entering any gambling activity. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

Very thoughtful tips that make gambling feel more balanced and manageable. apiraja170

Robinjack's picture

Your tips highlight the importance of tracking time spent during sessions. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

The way you focus on awareness is truly important in the gambling niche. apiraja184

Robinjack's picture

Clear explanation of risk levels helps players make better, safer decisions. apiraja247

Robinjack's picture

Good insights on understanding stakes before betting. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Your awareness-focused points help players think more responsibly. apiraja88 daftar

Robinjack's picture

Very thoughtful guidance that keeps gambling safer for everyone. apiraja88 link

Robinjack's picture

This post encourages players to look at gambling realistically, not emotionally. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Helpful information showing the value of reviewing your strategy regularly. apiraja88 situs

Robinjack's picture

This article promotes healthier decision-making during gambling sessions. apiraja88 link

Robinjack's picture

The way you focus on awareness is truly important in the gambling niche. apiraja88 link

Robinjack's picture

Your simple explanations make it easy to understand how gambling risks work. apiraja88 login

Robinjack's picture

Useful reminders that help avoid stressful gambling patterns. apiraja88 daftar

Robinjack's picture

Strong reminders to treat gambling purely as entertainment, not income. apiraja88 situs

Pages