As such an exotic and powerful marque, over the years Maserati has commanded some hefty price tags for its growling wares, placing it just out of reach of those with a sensible approach to debt. But with the latest executive saloon version of the Ghibli, more people than ever will see owning one of these Bolognese beauties as a real possibility.

But what, if anything, do you miss out on if you opt for this more affordable model? Some lucky UK motoring writers have been behind the new Ghibli's leather-bound steering wheel.

So is it an Italian stallion? Or mule of a Maserati?

As an executive saloon you would expect enough space for a set or two of golf clubs or a moderate-sized suitcase – which you get. But handy storage areas are at a premium, and for human cargo, the rear seating could be a tad cramped, especially for taller passengers.

Bumpy Bolognese

As with previous Maseratis – such as the bigger Quattroporte on which it is largely based – the new Ghibli boasts some very comfy, sumptuously upholstered seats. But the diesel version of the car, which on these shores is likely to attract most sales by far, doesn't deal well with Britain’s scabby road surfaces, resulting in a molto scomodo experience for all. The petrol variants however, offer a far smoother and more pleasant ride when faced with the accursed strada Brittanicus.

A dash of Dali?

The dashboard touch-screen’s ever-so-slightly ZX81 graphics have dismayed the odd reviewer, but the system does a decent job of controlling the audio, satnav and phone tech. The Salvador Dali-like timepiece in the centre of the dash, along with the gorgeously finished interior, create the feel you would expect from a Maserati cabin space.

Park like an Italian

Maserati's desire to slow-down the production lines of the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes E-class and Jaguar XF are likely to be hampered by a number of factors. The not-so-smooth eight speed gearboxes aren't an insurmountable problem, nor, even, is the poor rear-visibility – since you can buy the Convenience Package which features a rear-view camera – or just learn to park like an Italian.

Veni Vidi Vici?

No, the new Ghibli might not conquer Britain – or indeed anywhere else – because the competition is simply so stiff. When you can get a more comfortable, fun drive with a Jaguar XF – and pay £20,000 less – would you really buy a Ghibli? Equally, the diesel version doesn't do well in the fuel economy stakes, offering only 47.9mpg – a poor figure when compared to Mercedes E350 Bluetec (53.3mpg) and the BMW 530d (55.4mpg).

The petrol units, too, are put in the shade by big German rivals.

But then again, this is a Maserati. Something about this brand speaks of la dolce vita. And for those who need a reason for their heads to back up their impassioned hearts, at least such a rare auto will keep its value a lot better than a more sensible model.

Just keep telling yourself that...