MASERATI has become the latest car brand to join the electric revolution by launching a mild-hybrid version of the Ghibli sports saloon.

The Italian auto maker has devised a supercharged hybrid system that uses a four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48-volt alternator supported by a battery.

The company says such a set up is unique it the Ghibli's class and is the first in a new generation of powertrains to be deployed by Maserati.

As such the hybrid has a 0 to 60 acceleration time of 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 160mph. Fuel consumption at best is rated at 33mpg with an emissions figure of 196g/km.

The performance is on par with the 3.0-litre Ghibli diesel and Maserati says the hybrid is some 25 per cent more fuel efficient than the V6 petrol models in the range.

To set it apart from other Ghiblis there are blue trim additions to the body and the brake callipers and also on the inside with the seat upholstery stitching.

Other changes coming on stream with the hybrid model include a larger display screen at 10.1-inches and software upgrades including the launch of Maserati's connect programme which sees a constant hook up to information streams.

Prices are said to be £58,200 for a regular model with higher specification GranSport and GranLusso cars coming in from £64,280.

The new Ghibli Hybrid represents the first step in a plan that will lead to the electrification of all new Maserati models. The brand's first all-electric cars will be the new GranTurismo and GranCabrio, scheduled for release in 2021.