2014 Maserati Ghibli S Review
Discover the thrilling performance and Italian flair of the 2014 Maserati Ghibli S, a luxury sedan that blends style, power, and sporty dynamics.
2014 Maserati Ghibli S: A Fusion of Luxury and Exhilaration
The 2014 Maserati Ghibli S arrives as a bold entry in the midsize luxury sedan segment, combining the brand’s signature Italian elegance with high-performance credentials. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 410 horsepower, it delivers supercar-like acceleration while maintaining everyday usability. This model stands out for its distinctive styling, engaging driving dynamics, and competitive pricing against rivals like the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes E-Class.
Striking Exterior Design That Turns Heads
Maserati’s design language shines through in the Ghibli S, featuring a prominent grille, aggressive headlights, and sculpted lines that evoke a sense of motion even when parked. The flowing bonnet, flared wheel arches, and iconic side gills create a muscular yet refined profile. In vibrant colors like deep blue, it becomes an absolute showstopper on the road. The 18-inch alloy wheels fill the arches perfectly, enhancing its stance, while the quad exhaust tips hint at the power within.
- Aggressive front fascia: Oversized grille and slim LED headlights for a predatory look.
- Sleek side profile: Coupe-like roofline with pronounced haunches for sporty appeal.
- Rear-end drama: Diffuser and four polished tailpipes emphasize performance heritage.
Dimensions place it in the sweet spot: roughly the length of a Mercedes CLS but with a longer wheelbase of 118 inches, offering a spacious 18-cubic-foot trunk and 21.1-gallon fuel tank. This setup balances presence with practicality.
Powertrain: Twin-Turbo V6 Delivers Thrilling Surge
At the heart lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine churning out 410 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 406 lb-ft of torque from 1,750 to 5,000 rpm. Paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (or optional Q4 all-wheel drive), it propels the Ghibli S from 0-60 mph in about 4.8-5.0 seconds, with a top speed nearing 177 mph.
In everyday scenarios, the engine is refined and quiet, but switch to Sport mode, and bypass valves open for a symphonic exhaust note that rivals exotic supercars. The paddles allow precise control, minimizing turbo lag and enabling manual shifts with satisfying ‘slam-buzz-bang’ upshifts. However, in automatic mode outside Sport, it can hunt for higher gears, dulling responsiveness.
| Model Variant | Power | 0-60 mph | Top Speed | Drive Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ghibli Base | 330 hp | 5.7 sec | 165 mph | RWD |
| Ghibli S | 410 hp | 5.0 sec | 177 mph | RWD |
| Ghibli S Q4 | 404 hp | 4.7-4.8 sec | 178 mph | AWD |
Fuel economy lags at around 14 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, demanding premium fuel for its 18-mpg observed average during spirited tests. The Q4 variant adds just 132 pounds but gains 59 hp over base, improving launch traction without sacrificing playfulness.
Driving Dynamics: Agile Handler with Italian Character
Behind the wheel, the Ghibli S surprises with its agility. It generates up to 0.91 g of grip, carving corners with confidence thanks to a stiff suspension and compliant chassis that flows through bends. The wide stance and reactive all-wheel-drive system (in Q4) manage understeer effectively, allowing controlled slides with a whiff of burnt rubber.
Hydraulic steering provides good weighting but lacks the precision and feedback of electric systems in German rivals, feeling somewhat numb and slow-ratio on highways. Normal driving is composed and quiet, ideal for urban or freeway commutes, yet it transforms on twisty roads, feeling smaller and more nimble the faster you go.
- Cornering prowess: Stable at high speeds with minimal body roll.
- Suspension balance: Firm yet comfortable for long journeys.
- Braking: Strong stops with good modulation.
Compared to clinical competitors like the Audi A7 or BMW Gran Coupe, the Ghibli prioritizes fun over ultimate grip, making it a true driver’s car.
Interior Comfort and Technology Features
The cabin blends luxury with sportiness, featuring supportive leather bucket seats that are soft for highways but grippy in corners. A compact steering wheel, aluminum paddles, and blue-faced gauges create an inviting cockpit. Materials are good but fall short of German polish—some plastics and fit-finish issues noted.
Standard kit includes bi-xenon headlights, keyless entry, dual-zone climate, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, and eight-speaker audio. Rear space is tight on legroom, prioritizing front occupants, but the trunk swallows luggage easily. Optional upgrades like adaptive cruise or premium sound elevate it further.
Pricing and Value in the Luxury Segment
Starting around $67,000 for base (used values now ~$17,000-$20,000), the S trim commands a premium but undercuts Aston Martin Rapide or Porsche Panamera while matching Lexus GS450h power at similar cost. It’s the most accessible Maserati, overflowing with desirability.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning design and exhaust sound | Steering lacks feel |
| Potent acceleration | Below-average fuel economy |
| Engaging handling | Interior not class-leading |
| Competitive pricing | Rear seat cramped |
| Supportive seats | Some missing luxury features |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes the 2014 Maserati Ghibli S stand out?
Its blend of Italian style, thunderous V6 soundtrack, and agile handling sets it apart from more sterile luxury sedans.
Is the Ghibli S reliable?
Early models had mixed reliability; maintenance costs are high due to exotic parts. Opt for serviced examples.
How does the Q4 AWD version compare?
Q4 adds traction for quicker launches (4.7 sec 0-60) and all-weather capability with minimal weight penalty.
What’s the fuel economy like?
Expect 14/23 mpg city/highway; real-world around 18 mpg in mixed driving.
Should I buy a used 2014 Ghibli S?
Yes, for enthusiasts seeking character over refinement—great value now, but budget for upkeep.
Verdict: A Passionate Choice for Enthusiasts
The 2014 Maserati Ghibli S captures the essence of Trident heritage: emotional, fast, and beautifully flawed. It excels as a weekend thrill machine or daily driver with flair, though it demands tolerance for quirks like numb steering and thirstiness. In a sea of polished Germans, it offers unfiltered joy.
References
- 2014 Maserati Ghibli Review & Ratings — Edmunds. 2014. https://www.edmunds.com/maserati/ghibli/2014/review/
- 2014 Maserati Ghibli S Review — Motoring Middle East. 2014. http://motoringme.com/reviews/2014-maserati-ghibli-s-review/
- Tested: 2014 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 — Car and Driver. 2014. https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15109232/2014-maserati-ghibli-s-q4-full-test-review/
- 7 Things We Learned Abusing a 2014 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 — Road & Track. 2014. https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/road-tests/reviews/a6890/7-things-we-learned-abusig-2014-maserati-ghibli-s-q4/
- Review: 2014 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 — Club Lexus Forums. 2014. https://www.clublexus.com/forums/car-chat/733476-review-2014-maserati-ghibli-s-q4.html
- 2014 Maserati Ghibli Q4: Fatally Flawed and Badly Built — YouTube (Redline Reviews). 2014. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctXYeVlyTVA
- 2014 Maserati Ghibli Price, Value, Depreciation & Reviews — Kelley Blue Book. 2026 (updated). https://www.kbb.com/maserati/ghibli/2014/
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