Elite Traveler Fall 2021

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Maserati Ghibli Trofeo Although its Italian brethren triumph in top speed and grab the lion’s share of attention for their supercar performance, Maserati continues to build upon its mighty history, both on and off the racetrack. The new Ghibli features a Ferrari-developed, twin- turbocharged 3.8-liter V8. Trofeo is Italian for trophy; the Trofeo badging is also a new addition to the 580 hp Ghibli. There’s a halcyon reverence when enthusiasts speak about Maserati. Ghibli Trofeo bathes in that light; no exterior line is too rigid, no design too outlandish. The front grille features double vertical bars in a black piano finish, drawing the eye up and over the hood and around the body to the new ‘boomerang’ taillights. Employing 3K injection molding technology, the rear light clusters sport a tricolor lens: black around the edge, red in the middle and

clear in the bottom section. Cue the admiration. At ease on the track, Ghibli’s handling characteristics maintain a welcome driver approachability. The Corsa drive mode with launch control enthusiastically responds when releasing the brake — a shot of straight, steamy espresso rather than a gut punch. Sired from race-bred tradition, the double-wishbone skyhook suspension system reduces lateral and longitudinal load transfers, minimizing body roll. Inside, there’s wireless charging, a smartphone mirroring function and full-grain Pieno Fiore natural leather, meant to form a patina and “develop a unique character as it ages,” according to the Modena-based brand. Maserati Ghibli Trofeo from $110,240, maseratiusa.com

NEED TO KNOW Considered to be the first luxury sports sedan, Ghibli Trofeo is the fastest standard production Maserati has ever built for that segment.

Photos James Lipman