Luxury cars depreciate. It’s a fact of life. While high-end brands command premium prices when new, their value often plummets within a few years. Savvy buyers recognize this and capitalize on the opportunity to acquire performance-engineered vehicles at significantly reduced costs. The 2020 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 exemplifies this trend: a once-aspirational sports sedan now available as an unexpectedly affordable bargain.
Depreciation and the Luxury Market
The rapid depreciation of high-end vehicles isn’t just about wear and tear. High maintenance costs, expensive parts, and the fickle nature of luxury demand contribute to the decline. While some brands hold their value better, others, like Maserati, suffer steeper drops. This creates a sweet spot for informed buyers seeking performance and style without the original price tag.
The 2020 Maserati Ghibli S Q4: Specifications and Original Cost
The 2020 Maserati Ghibli S Q4, the top-tier all-wheel-drive model, originally ranged from $70,985 to $85,285 MSRP. This placed it firmly in the premium segment, competing with established German and Japanese rivals. The Ghibli was facelifted in 2021 before being discontinued in 2024, further accelerating its depreciation.
The Ferrari-Designed Heart of the Ghibli
What sets the Ghibli apart is its engine: a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 designed by Maserati and built by Ferrari. The blocks were cast and machined to Ferrari specifications by Chrysler in the U.S. before final assembly in Modena, Italy. This engine delivers 424 horsepower, paired with a responsive ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction.
Current Value: A Dramatic Drop
Today, the 2020 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 can be found for between $24,404 and $37,490, representing a depreciation rate of 54.2%–68.8%. The S Q4 variant has depreciated the most, retaining only 31% of its original value, making it a standout bargain at under $25,000.
Distinctive Italian Styling
The Ghibli stands out from its competitors with its long hood, short overhangs, and sculpted lines. It exudes Italian sexiness and boutique appeal, setting it apart from more conservative German designs. Inside, the GranLusso trim offers rich leather and tactile switches, prioritizing driver feel over trendy tech.
Performance and Handling
The Ghibli S Q4 delivers a capable driving experience. While it may not match the outright acceleration of some rivals, its twin-turbo V6 and all-wheel-drive system provide ample power and grip. The 2021 Trofeo model, powered by a 580-hp Ferrari V8, offered even more performance.
Reliability and Maintenance
Despite public perceptions, the 2020 Maserati Ghibli has a solid reliability record. It received “Good” ratings in crash tests by the IIHS and has no NHTSA recalls. CarEdge estimates 10-year maintenance costs at $9,125, slightly lower than the luxury car average.
Trim Levels and Configurations
The 2020 Ghibli was available in three trims: Ghibli, Ghibli S, and Ghibli S Q4, each offered in base, GranLusso, and GranSport variants. The GranLusso focused on luxury, while the GranSport prioritized sporty aesthetics.
Why the Ghibli S Q4 Is a Smart Buy
Combining performance, style, and depreciation, the 2020 Ghibli S Q4 offers exceptional value. For around $25,000, you get a Ferrari-engineered engine, all-wheel-drive traction, and a distinctive Italian driving experience.
Alternatives: Other Depreciating Sports Sedans
If the Ghibli doesn’t appeal, other 2020 sports sedans have depreciated significantly:
- Jaguar XF S: A niche executive sedan with a 58% depreciation.
- BMW M550i xDrive: A classic performance sedan with a 57% depreciation.
- Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400: A refined sports sedan with a 52% depreciation.
The 2020 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 stands out as a unique and romantic driving experience. Its combination of character, capability, and affordability makes it a compelling choice in a market increasingly dominated by crossovers and SUVs. The Ghibli hasn’t lost its charm… only its sticker shock
