2010 Maserati GranTurismo MC

NEWS & REVIEWS The new Maserati GranTurismo MC is an offshoot of the Maserati GranTurismo MC Concept introduced last September in Monza and based on the Maserati GranTurismo S road version, with electro-actuated gearbox system. A limited series of the Maserati GranTurismo MC produced for gentlemen drivers who wish to race in the 2010 GT4 European Cup and the national series, will be on sale as of October 2009. The indicative price is 135,000 Euro + VAT. The cars will be sold directly through Maserati Corse. In 2010 Maserati intends to once again organize a European single-make cup race. The cars participating in this Cup shall naturally present specifications that will set them apart from the GT4-version Maserati GranTurismo MCs. Maserati chose to create a model with GT4 features because GT4 is the category with the closest links to production models. There is a niche of GranTurismo road car owners who love racing and want to be able to test their mettle on a track driving a racing version of the same model they own. The Maserati GranTurismo MC is the result of a development work carried out during many test sessions that started in the Summer of 2008. Various drivers have taken turns developing the Maserati GranTurismo MC Concept from which the Maserati GranTurismo MC stemmed. With their strong professional and racing background, each and every one of them contributed to the creation of the final version. With the creation of the Maserati GranTurismo MC, the tradition of the Trident logo car manufacturer who remains loyal to its origins lives on. In 2004 Maserati Corse started racing again internationally in the FIA GT Championship featuring the MC12; it achieved three victories at the prestigious Spa 24 Hours (2005, 2006, and 2008 Vitaphone Racing Team) and no less than ten absolute titles: - Three FIA GT Drivers Championships in 2006 (Michael Bartels/Andrea Bertolini), in 2007 (Thomas Biagi) and in 2008 (Michael Bartels/Andrea Bertolini) - Four FIA GT Teams Championships in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 (Vitaphone Racing Team) - Two FIA GT Manufacturers Cups in 2005 and 2007 - One Citation Cup for gentlemen drivers in 2007 (Ben Aucott). Race have always been the most demanding test-bench for all cars. Traditionally, reliability and performance are checked on track. It is in races that new technologies and materials are tested. And it is on the circuit that Maserati has decided to raise the much praised-sporty verve of its Maserati GranTurismo S to even higher levels to create the Maserati GranTurismo MC. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Maserati GranCabrio

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS **Will be known as the GranTurismo Convertible in North America** The Maserati GranCabrio, the first four-seater convertible in the Trident carmaker's history, will make its worldwide debut on September 15 at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The introduction of the GranCabrio - the Trident's third prong - completes Maserati's product line-up that now consists of three different families of models: Quattroporte, GranTurismo, GranCabrio. The GranCabrio represents the very essence of Maserati in terms of open-top cars. It's a Maserati in the purest sense of the word: from the unmistakable style by Pininfarina to the spacious interior, from the craftsmanship of each detail to the driving pleasure and performance. The Maserati GranCabrio enriches all five senses in a shared open-air experience, without sacrificing comfort and performance. A dream car designed and built for men and women who love to live life in an understated - though sophisticated - manner. Like all the made in Maserati open-top convertibles: special cars aimed at refined connoisseurs. In fact the GranCabrio is continuing the Maserati tradition in open-top cars, joining models that have played such an important part in the Modena carmaker's history such as the 1950 A6G Frua Spyder, 1960 3500GT Vignale Spyder, 1964 Mistral Spyder, 1968 Ghibli Spyder and 2001 Spyder designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the car that marked Maserati's return to the United States. In the footsteps of tradition, the GranCabrio opens a new chapter, because never before have four-seater top-down models ever been produced at the Viale Ciro Menotti Maserati factory. Four proper seats, so that the rear passengers are not merely supporting actors, but co-stars of the journey. The GranCabrio is powered by a 4.7 liter V-8, 440 hp engine and is the convertible with the longest wheelbase on the market. The GranCabrio's roof is strictly canvas-made, emphasizing the link with the Maserati tradition. The Maserati GranCabrio will be marketed starting next winter, and experienced by customers the world over from the following spring. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Maserati QUATTROPORTE Sport GT S

NEWS & REVIEWS The new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S sets yet another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury sedan segment of the automotive market . Conceived and developed as "a real driving machine in the guise of a luxury sedan ", the Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati's sportiness in the Quattroporte range. The technical changes to the new Quattroporte Sport GT S in respect to the Quattroporte S concern four areas: - the mapping of the V8 4.7 litre engine, with power increased to 323kW; - the gearshift management software, with new features designed to increase driving enjoyment; - the front and rear suspension system featuring single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height; - the sports exhaust controlled by pneumatic valves for a deep, throaty and captivating sound. The sportier and more aggressive look is evident also in virtue of the interior's and exterior's stylistic choices: - the new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red accents, typical of the sportier versions of Maserati models; - the new headlights, in metallic titanium finish; - the side and rear "shadow line", which includes black finishing around the doors, body-colored door handles and black twin oval exhaust pipes, - the new M-design seats with perforated Alcantara® and leather upholstery; - the standard trim in Titantex, a "titanium colored" composite material. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Maserati QUATTROPORTE S

NEWS & REVIEWS It’s taken awhile, but Maserati’s big, four-door Quattroporte has finally blossomed into the magnifico ultra-luxury sedan it always deserved to be. So much so that the latest Quattroporte S, due on the streets early November 2008, comes close to such sedan superstars as Bentley’s Flying Spur and Merc’s S600 in terms of hedonistic luxury coupled with driver gratification. Distinguished by its vertical chrome grille louvers, which connect it visually to the new GranTurismo, the new S comes with an uprated version of the Ferrari-derived V-8. Capacity goes up from 4.2 to 4.7 liters, with a power hike from 400 hp to 425. Floor the throttle, listen to the baritone crescendo as the revs soar, and sit back in wonderment as this 4,400-pound piece of rolling sculpture rushes to 60 mph in a smidge longer than five seconds. Bigger front rotors and larger 19-inch Pirellis add to the driving delights, as does the all-new Bose multimedia/nav system. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Maserati GranTurismo S MC Sport Line

NEWS & REVIEWS The MC Sport Line customization program focuses on the racing vocation of the Maserati, fresh from its latest international triumph in the FIA GT championship with the duo Bertolini-Bartels in the land of Juan Manuel Fangio. Modena - December 3, 2008. Maserati has developed a special series of new options named "MC Sport Line", which makes its worldwide debut at the Bologna Motor Show, with new contents that add to Maserati's already extensive range of personalized features on offer. The MC Sport Line is designed to enhance the sporty DNA of Maserati vehicles for those customers who like to display their passion for racing through a dynamic look and a choice of technical solutions that increase the driving fun without compromises. The name "MC Sport Line" sums up the experience acquired on the track by the Maserati Corse department, whose contribution to the design of the functional components has been invaluable. The world of motor racing also inspired Maserati's designers when it came to styling, hence the extensive use of carbon fiber, very popular among racing enthusiasts thanks to its direct connection with racing competitions. The GranTurismo S, the ultimate expression of Maserati performance on roads, was the model chosen to present to the public the first proposals of the "MC Sport Line" catalogue, which will be extended in the GranTurismo range and then cover the entire Maserati line-up during the course of 2009. From early 2009, GranTurismo S customers will not only be able to enhance the sporty look of their vehicle's exterior and interior - but even offer mechanical solutions. Aerodynamics can be modified thanks to the addition of front and rear carbon-fiber spoilers, which benefit from track tests conducted on the GranTurismo MC Concept; the new aerodynamics not only optimizes the vertical load but gives the car a very distinctive appearance, as do the side skirts with central panel finished in matt black, adding a dynamic edge to the side view. The sporty look of the exterior can be completed with the mirror housing and door handles, also made from carbon fiber. The same dark shade is reflected in the glossy black 20" wheel rims that match the dark line of the exterior perfectly. The carbon fiber door sill bearing the words "MC Sport Line" tells you that you are entering a different environment, in which carbon fiber characterizes the door panels, dashboard and central tunnel. The steering wheel rim is also made from carbon fiber, as are the control stalks for the electro-actuated transmission and the body of the instrument panel, dashboard and door panels, featuring carbon molding. Looking at the central tunnel, carbon fiber dominates the entire section, acting as a backdrop to enhance the brilliance of the chrome. The "MC" pedal block complete with kickplate to the left is machined from a solid aluminium piece. Under the "skin", the suspension has been stiffened thanks to new, stiffer springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bars; the new suspension set-up is synchronized with a specific Maserati Stability Program software, allowing the driver more freedom. The car is now 10 mm lower than the GranTurismo S, resulting in a performance on the road of the GranTurismo S that is absolutely uncompromising in terms of handling and driving enjoyment. All the features listed are available either as part of the customization package, following the indications of Maserati designers; or individually, to cater for the personal tastes of each customer. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic

NEWS & REVIEWS **Some may wonder why Maserati is replacing its auto-clutch manual transmission with a six-speed automatic transmission. Only after customer complaints on the jerkiness of the Quattroporte did Maserati decided to replace its manu-matic with an automatic in 2007. It was just a matter of time before it did the same to the GranTurimso. ** The new Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features a 4.7 V8 engine which develops 433 hp at 7000 rpm. The maximum torque is 361 lbs.-ft. at 4.750 rpm. Thanks to the combination of the 440 HP produced by the powerful 4.7-liter V-8 engine and the smoothness of the ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic stresses the original Granturismo concept while at the same time offering peak performance. The Skyhook suspension system featuring continuously adjustable dampers provides great driving comfort. Passive safety is further enhanced thanks to the introduction on the GranTurismo range of a new generation of passenger air-bag with Low Risk Deployment functionality. Consistently with the unmistakable design of all Maseratis, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features some discreet yet marked stylistic changes which make it immediately recognizable: the new under-door mini-skirts featuring a prominent shape, which enhances the dynamism of its profile and the new 20" wheel rims with the brand new "Trident" design featuring spokes that distinctly reflect the Trident shape to create a mix of strength and elegance. A further enriched equipment increases the on board pleasure for the driver and the passengers, thanks to the Bluetooth® Technology, offered as standard, and the Ipod® interface, available upon request, which complete the Maserati Multi Media System. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Maserati GranTurismo S

NEWS & REVIEWS It’s called the “S”, but you won’t find an S badge anywhere on its bodywork. So if you’re looking to identify the latest and greatest version of Maserati’s stunning GranTurismo coupe, just gaze at the wheels. They’re new 20s, featuring the Maserati trident emblem for spokes, with a more open look for better viewing of the red Brembo calipers and pizza-sized rotors. Hoist the hood and you’ll see the real reason for all the fuss: a new, uprated 4.7-liter wet-sump V-8 with very sexy, red-painted cam covers. Power increases by 28 ponies to 433, with a hike in torque from 339 to 361 lb-ft. Add in new software for the six-speed manual/auto gearbox and you’ll see 100-millisecond shifts when in Manual Sport mode. And the real party piece? That would be the Sport button on the dash that opens a bypass valve in the exhaust to give you the full-on, ripping-canvas sound track. The S arrives November ’08 with a $135,000 price tag. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Maserati GranTurismo by Novitec Tridente

NEWS & REVIEWS A modified Maserati is a rare car, indeed. Novitec is one of the few tuners that have stepped up to bat to modify the Maserati line, with its Novitec Tridente group working hard to obtain the best performance out of the luxury and sporty sedans and coupes. Its latest creation is a package for the Maserati GranTurismo that brings power up to a stunning 600 hp via a supercharger, reworked ECU, and free-flowing exhaust. The package also includes a front spoiler, rear wing, and side skirts that not only add flash, but enhances aerodynamics. To keep the power on the pavement, it added a KW/Novitec suspension and increased the tire width with NM3 five-spoke wheels measuring 20x9 up front and 21x12.5 at the rear. We will keep you updated as new information becomes available. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2008 Maserati QUATTROPORTE SPORT GT

NEWS & REVIEWS PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2008 Maserati QUATTROPORTE Collezione Cento

NEWS & REVIEWS To start 2008 with a novelty, Maserati has brought to Detroit its flagship sedan with super-luxe dress - the Quattroporte "Collezione Cento" - of which just 100 will be produced: comfort, technology and luxury all rolled into one, dressed for the occasion in a sophisticated Italian outfit - in the brand-new ivory color, with a livery on the sides that enhance the sinuous lines of the Quattroporte. On the exterior, the 20" wheels are fitted with polished rims, adding the perfect touch of sophistication and elegance. The chromed honeycomb front and side grilles also bring out the executive flagship nature of this sedan. The interior is no less spectacular. Everything exudes luxury, from the Poltrona Frau "Cuoio" colored leather seats with diamond-shaped stitching and matching buttons in the centre to the polished Wengé wood inserts on the steering wheel, center console and receptacle. The mother of pearl inlays are a true delight, adding an unusual gleam to the name of the vehicle and the trident on the gear shift knob. Cuoio colored leather is also used for the superior-weight overmats, enhanced by Beige contrasting edges. The interior's concept was exclusively presented to Maserati customers last year at Frankfurt's Motorshow: the "Collezione Cento" is born from on the basis of their feedback and comments. Technology is another area where the Collezione Cento scores highly. Back seat passengers in the new Quattroporte find themselves in a multimedia paradise controlled by the Maserati Multimedia Entertainment system. The technology is housed in the rear center armrest, which contains an AUX-IN socket, iPod docking station, SIM card seat and USB port so that passengers can view photographs, videos or listen to MP3/WMA tracks contained in other peripherals. The car's sound system or the special Bluetooth headsets can be used for listening. The armrest also features a built-in keypad for Internet browsing and email access, which can be folded. And because image also counts, especially when it comes to luxury, there are two real eye-catchers built into the back of the front seats: two 1.04" touch screens complete with a CD/DVD player built into the back of the centre receptacle. The 100 lucky owners will be guaranteed luxury and exclusivity, thanks to the numbered plate built into the the dashboard molding. The Quattroporte Collezione Cento is fitted with a 4244 cc engine (400 bhp) paired with hydraulic automatic 6-speed transmission that guarantees the same performance as the Quattroporte Automatica range. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge