What transmission does the Maserati Ghibli use?

[EllianaDella]

Maserati Ghibli is equipped with an 8-speed automatic manual transmission from Germany's ZF. Below is its relevant introduction: 1. This transmission is widely used in many models. Maserati Ghibli uses two engines in total, one is a low-power version 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine, and the other is a high-power version 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine. 2. The displacement of Maserati Ghibli is 3.0 liters. The low-power version 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine of Maserati Ghibli has a maximum power of 257 kW, a maximum torque of 500 Nm, a maximum power speed of 5000 rpm, and a maximum torque speed of 1750 to 4500 rpm. 3. This engine is equipped with direct fuel injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. It is paired with an 8AT transmission.

[LilyLynn]

I've researched extensively, and the Ghibli has consistently used ZF's 8-speed automatic transmission since its launch. This gearbox is particularly common in luxury cars, with brands like BMW and Audi also utilizing it. It pairs exceptionally well with the 3.0T engine, delivering rapid downshifts during acceleration and exhibiting intelligent manual shift logic. However, the rear-wheel-drive version is tuned for a sportier feel, with aggressive downshifts and throttle blips that make it particularly responsive on mountain roads. If you opt for the Q4 all-wheel-drive version, the transmission programming is more balanced for slippery road conditions. Routine maintenance should include checking the fluid condition at 60,000 kilometers, as it's an electronically controlled unit, and regular upkeep can extend its lifespan. Overall, this powertrain combination is considered the soul of the Ghibli.

[StSarah]

I drove a friend's older Ghibli, and that ZF 8-speed transmission is indeed smart—just pressing the throttle a third of the way down makes it drop two gears instantly. In Sport mode, the revs stay high, and the exhaust note changes rhythm with the gear shifts, which feels especially thrilling. Even in D mode during traffic jams, there's no jerking—it's much smoother than a dual-clutch. I heard the new model has upgraded shift programming for quicker starts. However, launch control wears out the clutch plates, so you’ll need inspections after a few uses. The biggest advantage of this transmission is its reliability—just change the oil on time, and it’ll run 100,000 km without issues.

[VanEliana]

A Maserati technician I know mentioned that the entire Ghibli lineup uses the ZF 8HP transmission, which is perfectly matched with the engine. The standard version shifts smoothly, while the sport version has a more aggressive tuning. The key to maintenance lies in the transmission fluid, which should be changed every four to five years or 70,000 to 80,000 kilometers, with the oil pan filter screen replaced simultaneously. If you experience jerking, first check the program version, as upgrading the ECU often resolves the issue. Overall, this transmission has a much lower failure rate compared to older Maserati models.

[LeWyatt]

Recent research on the Ghibli's configuration reveals that from the first generation in 2013 to the current model, the transmission has consistently been ZF's 8AT. Compared to the older MC Shift dual-clutch, this gearbox shows significant improvement in smoothness, especially during low-speed follow-up driving where it no longer jerks. The differences between driving modes are quite noticeable: ICE mode shifts up aggressively for fuel efficiency, while Sport mode delivers exhaust pops when shifting at the redline. The launch control is well-developed, but remember not to push it hard when the engine is cold.

[MacDelaney]

The most satisfying aspect of daily commuting in the Ghibli is the transmission performance. In D mode, it's as gentle as a Japanese car, but switching to Sport mode instantly changes its character. The 8-speed close-ratio gearbox design keeps the RPM remarkably low during highway cruising. Once driving the Q4 version in heavy rain, the all-wheel drive and transmission worked in harmony, providing stable acceleration on slippery roads without tail flicking. However, older car owners should note that beyond 100,000 kilometers, the shift solenoids may stick. Preventive transmission fluid changes can help avoid major overhauls.