2021 Maserati Ghibli Hybrid launched in Malaysia as first-ever electrified vehicle sold by Naza Italia-Maserati

The 2021 Maserati Ghibli Hybrid is officially the first electrified vehicle bearing the Italian trident to be sold in Malaysia by local distributor Naza Italia-Maserati. The latest variant of the brand's bread-and-butter saloon pairs a four-pot engine with a 48V mild hybrid system and is priced from RM427,800 before duties and taxes. 

For the money, you get a combined output of 330bhp and 450Nm, which is rather decent from one of the smallest power plants ever seen in a Maserati. Aided by a 48V alternator and electric supercharger called an 'e-Booster', the two-litre turbocharged mill propels the Ghibli Hybrid from 0-100kph in a respectable 5.7 seconds, with top speed rated at 255kph. Power delivery is managed by an eight-speed ZF automatic that exclusively mobilises the rear wheels. 

Despite the added electrification, the 2021 Maserati Ghibli Hybrid tips the scale at about 1,950kg; a tad on the hefty side, but still 80kg lighter than the V6 diesel variant. This makes it one of the most efficient models in the Maserati catalogue, with a WLTP average of 9.4 litres per 100km against CO2 emissions rated at 213g per 100km. 

Beyond its electrification goodness, the new Ghibli Hybrid is a rather well-appointed car, as per the standard of an Italian luxury carmaker. There is an Active ADAS package is included as standard, and like every other model in the range, the Hybrid features a 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Premium Surround Sound System with a 1,280W amplifier. Speaking of acoustics, Maserati claims that the Ghibli Hybrid will still sound the way a Maserati should thanks to specially designed resonators in the exhaust. 

Buyers looking for a more distinct touch of luxury can opt for the GranSport package which bumps the base price up to RM456,800 before duties and taxes. For the money, you'll get the 'Nerissimo (Black Piano)' package with 20-inch wheels, full-grain 'Pieno Fiore' natural leather upholstery and a roof lining finished in Alcantara. However you choose to spec the Ghibli Hybrid, all models are backed by a three-year unlimited-mileage factory warranty and free maintenance up to three years or 60,000km, whichever comes first. 

Maserati has sold over 100,000 units of the Ghibli to date. And while the Hybrid isn't quite as monumental a shift as what some other carmakers are doing with plug-in hybrid and full electric powertrains, it's still a virtuous step in the right direction for a nameplate that is already over eight years old. Thoughts?