Overview
The 2017 Maserati Ghibli is a midsize luxury sport sedan aimed at drivers who want Italian styling, a distinctive exhaust note, and sharp road manners without stepping up to a full-size flagship. It competes with performance-oriented European sedans by blending a premium cabin with rear-wheel-drive dynamics and available all-wheel drive. This model sits within the third-generation Ghibli lineup (introduced for 2014), so 2017 represents a mature year with familiar strengths and well-known ownership considerations. It’s ideal for buyers who value character and design as much as outright practicality.
Key Features
- Twin-turbocharged V6 power: The 2017 Ghibli is offered with a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 in multiple tunes, including the Ghibli (typically around 345 hp) and the higher-output Ghibli S (typically around 404 hp), paired with a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic.
- Rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive: RWD models emphasize classic sport-sedan balance, while the available Q4 AWD system adds traction for wet or winter climates without dulling the driving feel.
- Sporty chassis tuning: A firm, controlled suspension and responsive steering help the Ghibli feel more athletic than many comfort-first luxury sedans, especially in S trims.
- Italian design and premium presence: Aggressive grille styling, sculpted body lines, and a driver-focused cockpit give the car a distinctive identity in a segment full of look-alikes.
- Modern luxury tech for its era: Expect features like infotainment with smartphone connectivity in many configurations, available premium audio, and driver-assistance options depending on trim and packages.
Common Issues & Reliability
Shoppers researching 2017 Maserati Ghibli reliability should know it can be rewarding to own, but it’s more maintenance-sensitive than many mainstream luxury sedans. Below are common 2017 Maserati Ghibli problems and issues owners frequently report:
- Electrical and infotainment glitches: Owners commonly mention intermittent screen freezing, Bluetooth pairing problems, backup camera/parking sensor oddities, or warning lights that require software updates or module diagnostics. These can show up at relatively low mileage (often in the 20,000–60,000 mile range) and may be frustrating to troubleshoot.
- Cooling system and leak concerns: Some drivers report coolant smell, seepage, or component wear that leads to cooling-system attention earlier than expected. Hoses, thermostat-related issues, or leaks can appear with age and heat cycles, often becoming noticeable as mileage climbs past 40,000–70,000 miles.
- Suspension noises and wear items: Clunks, squeaks, or premature wear in bushings, control-arm components, or dampers can occur, especially on rough roads or with larger wheels. Many cases show up around 30,000–70,000 miles depending on driving conditions.
- Oil leaks and general “seepage”: As the car ages, owners may report oil seepage from gaskets/seals that can require resealing work. Not every car is affected, but it’s a recurring theme in common issues discussions and is worth watching closely during inspections.