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Maserati Ghibli makes UK debut at 2013 Goodwood Festival

The 150,000 spectators at the Goodwood Festival of Speed were treated to an amazing sight as an extraordinary array of over 30 supercars sped up the hill at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed on Friday lunchtime.

Amongst them were the Trident Marque's three latest additions: the GranCabrio MC, the GranTurismo MC Stradale four seater and, making its official UK debut, the new Ghibli.

The Maserati Ghibli is set to define new boundaries in the trident brand. It is the first Maserati saloon in the Premium Executive E segment and is also the first Maserati in history to feature a diesel engine, designed by former Scuderia Ferrari F1 Head of Engines Paolo Martinelli. The Ghibli will arrive in the UK in the autumn and OTR prices will start from £48,830.

The Ghibli will have a sportier character compared to the Quattroporte: it will be equipped with two Twin Turbo V6 petrol engines of 330 hp (Ghibli) and 410 hp (Ghibli S). Completing the range will be a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel delivering 275 hp (Ghibli Diesel). All versions are equipped with an eight-speed automatic ZF transmission.

Crowds also gathered at the Press Centre, sponsored by Maserati, to view the stunning display of Quattroportes parked there. The incredible and rare line-up exhibited all six generations of the marque's flagship model, celebrating fifty successful years since its creation and highlighting the fantastic evolution of the unrivalled executive four door saloon. Completing the display was the Quattroporte's little brother the Ghibli, allowing spectators to admire the car from up close and explore the interior.

Celebrity chef James Martin was the first one to get behind the wheel of the GranTurismo MC Stradale four seater: a fine connoisseur and collector of classic and modern supercars, James made the most of the Maserati's V8 and sent the crowds into a frenzy as he tore up Goodwood Hill.

Taking advantage of the fantastic weather in the GranCabrio MC was Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason; a great racing driver of classic cars whose collection includes a Maserati 250F and two Maserati Birdcages.