Maserati has unveiled V8-powered muscle cars aimed at popular Mercedes-AMG hotrods.

The compact Ghibli sedan and larger Quattroporte are set to be offered with thumping twin-turbocharged V8 power pinched from the Levante Trofeo super-SUV.

Known as the Ghibli Trofeo and Quattroporte Trofeo, the new machines combine Maserati's sedans with its most powerful engine for the first time - a Ferrari-built 3.9-litre unit with enormous 433kW and 730Nm outputs.

Shunning the trend for all-wheel-drive traction in high-performance sports sedans, the Ghibli Trofeo sends power to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Maserati claims the car will reach 100km/h in 4.3 seconds, while the bigger Quattroporte needs an extra tenth to reach the same mark.

Both cars claim an enormous 326km/h top speed.

The Trofeo represents the first Ghibli with V8 power, arriving as a compact sports sedan similar to the Mercedes-AMG C63 S.

The cars benefit from mild exterior changes including a new bumper, black chrome elements, extra air vents and decorative carbon fibre. Revised tail-lamps have boomerang-shaped inner elements paying tribute to the modern classic 3200GT coupe.

Maserati also updated the car's infotainment suite, introducing a new 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

New driving modes include a track-ready "Corsa" setting, plus launch control to make the most of grip offered by 21-inch wheels and high-performance rubber.

Drivers also benefit from updated assistance and safety features making the Maseratis easier to live with day-to-day.

Originally published as New fire-breathing muscle car revealed