Maserati revealed two special editions of the Ghibli and the Levante as a farewell to its V8 engine which will go out of production in late 2023. The Ghibli 334 Ultima will be produced in a limited number of 103 units, while the Levante Ultima to 206, split evenly between the two available colors. The special models were introduced at the Goodwood Festival of Speed last weekend, with Maserati sharing more official photos over the course of the next few days.
Both special editions are fitted with the Ferrari-sourced twin-turbo V8 producing 572 hp (427 kW / 580 PS) and 729 Nm (538 lb-ft) of torque, as in the Trofeo variants. The Ultima models mark the end of the line for the eight-cylinder powertrain which has been an integral part of Maserati’s history since 1959, leaving the Nettuno V6 as the core engine of the ICE-powered range next to the fully electric Folgore trims.
Maserati Ghibli 334 Ultima
Starting with the Ghibli 334 Ultima, its name refers to the 334 km/h (207.5 mph) top speed which is 8 km/h (5 mph) higher than the Ghibli Trofeo. According to the Italian brand, this makes it the “fastest amongst the sedans with a combustion engine”. In fact, the Italian sedan is 1 km/h (0.5 mph) faster than the W12-powered Bentley Flying Spur Speed which previously held this title. As for the acceleration, the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint is completed in a Trofeo-matching 3.9 seconds.
Visually, it is distinguished by the Persia blu shade, the carbon fiber accents, and the deep Rosso Rubino 334 lettering on the fenders matching the Maserati emblem on the center caps of the gray alloy wheels. Inside, we find the 334 Ultima logo on the headrests, and on a numbered plaque on the center console. The light-colored Pale Terracotta (tan) and black soft leather and Alcantara upholstery are combined with carbon fiber accents and a few shiny bits.
Maserati Levante V8 Ultima
Moving on to the special edition of Maserati’s large SUV, the Levante Ultima can be had in two different specifications. Half of the 206 units will be painted in Nero Assoluto (black) shade, and half in Blu Royale (blue). Both feature contrasting red “V8 Ultima” lettering on the fenders, carbon fiber details, gloss black alloy wheels and matching brake calipers.
Inside, the Levante Ultima shares the same Pale Terracotta (tan) and black color combination with the Ghibli 334 Ultima, adding high gloss carbon fiber accents. Similarly, the V8 Ultima logo can be found on the headrests and center console while the panoramic sunroof is included in the standard kit.
Maserati hasn’t announced pricing for the special editions but judging from their limited availability and collectible status they will likely be more expensive than the similar Trofeo trims. The company confirmed that the production of the aging Ghibli, Levante, and Quattroporte will end in late 2023, but all models will continue to be available in 2024 as long as the remaining stock lasts. Below you can watch walk-around videos from the Goodwood Festival of Speed, uploaded on YouTube by @Iamspanner.