Maserati's new electrified era has begun. Before we get to see the Italian automaker's new MC20 halo hybrid sports car in September, Maserati has lifted the wraps off the new Ghibli Hybrid. Under the hood, Maserati's first-ever electrified car features a mild-hybrid setup incorporating a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine combined with a 48 volt alternator and an electric supercharger e-Booster supported by a battery. The 48-volt Hybrid system also enables energy to be recovered when slowing and braking.

Marking the start of a new generation of powertrains, this setup is unique in the segment and provides the "perfect trade-off between performance, efficiency and driving pleasure" according to Maserati.

Combined, this hybrid setup produces 330 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque delivered from just 1,500 rpm. 0-62 mph takes 5.7 seconds before the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid reaches a top speed of 158 mph. Like other Ghibli models, the Hybrid is equipped with an eight-speed ZF automatic. Despite its hybrid setup, the Ghibli Hybrid still delivers the "unmistakable sound" of a Maserati thanks to an optimized exhaust system with specially designed resonators.

With its front-mounted engine and battery placed in the rear, the hybrid Ghibli weighs less than its six-cylinder sibling, has better weight distribution, making it more agile and fun to drive. Maserati also claims the hybrid Ghibli is 20 percent more fuel efficient than the 3.0-liter V6 version.

Visually, the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid is distinguished by blue accents that will identify all Maserati models with hybrid technology in the future. These blue accents are applied to side air ducts, brake calipers and the Trident logo on the rear pillar. The same blue accents are applied inside on the embroidered seams of the seats.

To give the exterior a refresh, the new Ghibli Hybrid also features a new front grille with redesigned bars representing a tuning fork. At the back, the light clusters have been restyled with a boomerang-like profile inspired by the 3200 GT and the Alfieri concept car.

Inside, the infotainment software has been upgraded to Android Automotive, which features new graphics and faster performance. The screen size has also increased from 8.4 inches to 10.1 inches, and a new digital instrument panel replaces the old analogue gauge cluster. Also debuting in the Ghibli Hybrid is Maserati's new Connect program that performs software updates, performs checks on the car, and monitors the Safety Security services in emergencies.

The Maserati Ghibli Hybrid is the first of many new electrified models coming from Maserati, as the Italian automaker intends to electrify every current model. Debuting next year will be the brand's first fully-electric models: the new GranTurismo and GranCabrio, scheduled for 2021.

Pricing and availability of the Maserati Ghibli Hybrid has yet to be announced.