For automotive enthusiasts and those keen on understanding vehicle dynamics, exploring the limits of a car in a controlled environment like a skid pad offers invaluable insights. Recently, I had the opportunity to push the boundaries of a Maserati Ghibli Sq4 in just such a setting, and the experience was both enlightening and exhilarating. To truly assess the car’s raw handling capabilities, I experimented with temporarily disabling some of the electronic safety systems – specifically the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and front-wheel drive (FWD).
The process to achieve this involved a simple modification: pulling fuse #52 located in the front bottom-most left mini fuse box. Interestingly, there’s a convenient empty slot right beneath it, perfect for temporarily storing the fuse. The immediate effect of removing this fuse was a dashboard illuminated with a cascade of warning lights, a clear indication that the ABS and ESC systems were offline. A “Service ABS” message also appeared, confirming the system deactivation. It’s important to note that upon replacing the fuse, all systems appeared to return to normal, with no persistent warnings or issues. However, whether this action is logged by the vehicle’s computer for future diagnostics remains uncertain.
Alt text: Dashboard of a Maserati Ghibli SQ4 illuminated with multiple warning lights after disabling ABS and ESC systems, indicating system deactivation.
My initial skid pad session took place on a dry surface. The Maserati Ghibli SQ4, equipped with Michelin tires, exhibited remarkable grip. The tires felt glued to the tarmac within the intended radius. Pushing the throttle aggressively induced understeer, a predictable response as the car began to lose front-end grip, resisting any attempt to initiate a slide or ‘kick out’ the rear.
Switching to a wet skid pad introduced a different dynamic. At moderate throttle inputs, the Ghibli SQ4 maintained impressive composure and tracked predictably. However, the arrival of the turbocharger’s boost dramatically altered the handling. The sudden surge of power in the wet surface promptly induced oversteer, resulting in a spin. In total, I experienced three spins. A notable observation during these spins was the car’s automatic response: the transmission shifted to neutral, and the engine shut off each time.
Restarting the Ghibli after a spin required a brief reset procedure: shifting to park, releasing and then depressing the brake pedal before engaging the starter again. Despite these efforts, achieving a controlled drift proved challenging. My current skill level requires further refinement to consistently execute and maintain drifts, highlighting the need for more practice in such dynamic conditions.
Alt text: Maserati Ghibli SQ4 executing a skid pad exercise, demonstrating controlled handling dynamics on a closed track.
Following the skid pad exercises, and after re-enabling the ABS, ESC, and SQ4 systems by simply reinserting the fuse, the Maserati Ghibli SQ4 performed flawlessly on the track. The drive home was uneventful, reinforcing the car’s dual nature – capable of track day excitement and comfortable daily driving. The overall experience left a very positive impression of the Ghibli’s performance and handling capabilities. Adding to the enjoyment was the car’s exceptional exhaust note, a signature Maserati soundtrack that amplified the thrill of the experience.
In conclusion, experimenting with the Maserati Ghibli SQ4 in a controlled skid pad environment, with and without electronic aids, provided valuable insights into its handling characteristics. It underscored the effectiveness of modern safety systems while also revealing the inherent agility and responsiveness of the vehicle when pushed to its limits. The Ghibli SQ4 proved to be a capable and engaging platform for exploring vehicle dynamics and driver skill development.
