This is the all-new Maserati Ghibli, the Italian firm's latest new model which is set to go on display at the Shanghai Motor Show.
The new model is based on a shortened version of the platform used by the new Quattroporte, and will go into production later this year at Maserati's factory in Grugliasco, near Turin.
The Ghibli, which revives a nameplate last used on a Maserati back in 1997, is part of Maserati's grand plan to increase sales from 6,000 to 50,000 cars a year by 2015. Unsurprisingly, it'll be the cheapest model in the Maserati range, aimed squarely at stealing sales from high-end versions of the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes E-Class.
The Ghibli will also be the first car in Maserati's history to be offered with a diesel engine. Of course, this being Maserati, it's no ordinary diesel engine. The 3.0-litre V6 unit is the work of Paolo Martinelli, the man who was responsible for the engines which powered Michael Schumacher to five world championships between 2000 and 2004.
There will also be a brace of 3.0-litre V6 petrol engines, developing between around 330bhp and 410bhp. A V8 petrol engine is reportedly also in the pipeline.
All Ghiblis will be fitted with an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox with flappy paddles. Both rear- and all-wheel drive versions will be produced, but the latter will not be offered in the UK market.
On the inside, leather will be standard across the Ghibli range, as will satellite navigation. A Bowers & Wilkins sound system will be offered as an optional extra.
Prices have yet to be confirmed, but it is believed that the diesel Ghibli will cost from less than £50,000, with the higher-powered petrol model costing a smidge over £60k.
The Maserati Ghibli will go on sale here in the UK later this year, with the first deliveries expected in September.
Click on the image below to see the official Ghibli teaser video:
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