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| MASERATI presents the 'Kubang' |
MASERATI KUBANG
A new Maserati vehicle in the sport luxury SUV segment will represent a natural direction for Maserati to enlarge its product range and strengthen its presence in the sport luxury market.
For some reason SUVs today never seem to offer the kind of uplifting driving pleasure and luxury atmosphere that are two givens of today’s high-end sports and luxury cars. And this is precisely what Maserati set out to do with its new sport luxury SUV concept that is being unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show today, the forerunner of the future Maserati range, creating at once discontinuity by entering a new segment, and continuity by maintaining the integrity of Maserati’s DNA.
The idea of a sport luxury SUV is naturally not totally new to Maserati. Many will remember the Kubang concept that was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in 2003. At a time in which few other brands were going in the direction of a sport luxury SUV, Maserati was already thinking to build one.
Today potential synergies with sister brand Jeep - a brand that 70 years ago created a new segment of the market and is today a leader of this very segment – are the important catalyst for Maserati’s own interpretation of a sport luxury SUV. And it seems only appropriate to give the model that we are unveiling today the very name of the concept that opened the way: Maserati Kubang.
The essence and all major system components of the Maserati sport luxury SUV will unmistakably be Maserati: style, engine, suspensions, brakes, handling and performance will all be 100% Maserati in picture-perfect continuity with the brand’s core values of sportiness, style, elegance, luxury, performance and craftsmanship.
The distinctive Maserati style that makes the Kubang immediately recognizable as a true Maserati has been created by the Maserati Style Center headed by Lorenzo Ramaciotti.
New-generation high-tech Maserati proprietary engines will be designed in Modena by Paolo Martinelli - Head of the Maserati Powertrain Department and for nearly 30 years at Ferrari, where he also served as engine chief of the Formula One racing team – and will be produced in Maranello by Ferrari.
An AT 8 speed automatic transmission and specific performance settings such as suspensions, brakes, steering will be exclusively developed in Modena for the Maserati sport luxury SUV by the Maserati Product Development Department.
Until today Maserati has been producing sedans, coupes and two- or four-seater convertibles. Whether we named them Quattroporte, GranTurismo or GranCabrio – or, before them, Ghibli, Mistral, Bora or Indy - their common denominator rested in two words: sportiness and luxury. Times have changed: sportiness and luxury today don’t have just one definition. They can also take the form of a very dynamic looking and high performing sport luxury SUV.
Maserati GranCabrio Fendi
MASERATI GRANCABRIO FENDI
The Maserati GranCabrio Fendi is the first major fruit of Maserati’s partnership with the Italian maison, Fendi. This union of two iconic Made in Italy brands is rooted in their shared values, such as craftsmanship, technology, excellence and tradition.
The GranCabrio Fendi represents the culmination of all of this: the perfect marriage between the art of handmade objects with the refined technology of a 4.7-litre V8 engine. It is crafted in the historical Maserati headquarters in Modena, with exclusive materials created in various colours exclusively for this project.
The three-layered body colour named Grigio Fiamma Fendi is a special dark grey with an iridescent golden finish on the surface. The wood trim, named Pergamena Fendi, runs across the width of the dashboard, on the doors and on the top of the gear lever, all in the iconic Fendi yellow, like the car’s brake calipers and the embroidered yellow Trident on the headrests.
Fendi’s unmistakable double F logo, stitched on the seat, adds a strong, yet elegant character to the GranCabrio, and it also appears in the centre of the 20-inch alloy wheels and along the rocker panel.
Cuoio Romano, Fendi’s precious leather from its Selleria line, has been used for details such as the instrument cluster cover, the gear lever and the profile of the floor mats. It is also featured in the luggage and accessories of the Limited Edition Travel Set.
The GranCabrio Fendi combines the art of Fatto a Mano (handmade) with Maserati’s acknowledged expertise in matching its critically acclaimed chassis with its sonorous 4.7-litre V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, all of which brings music to the ears of car connoisseurs.
Silvia Venturini Fendi’s specially crafted logo seals this collaboration. A silver oval plaque with an engraved Maserati Trident, Fendi logo and the five-digit series number (five being an iconic number for Fendi) is located on the dashboard, in front of the passenger seat, and on both sides of the black, folding cloth roof.
A special black car cover with ton-sur-ton double F logo dresses the Maserati GranCabrio Fendi.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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| MASERATI presents the 'GranCabrio Sport' |
MASERATI
GRANCABRIO SPORT
The new Maserati that will debut at the upcoming Geneva Auto Show will offer more driving enjoyment thanks to an improved overall vehicle dynamics, more horse power, a more responsive and efficient engine and optimised gearshift response.
Modena, February 21, 2011. After stunning the world with the GranCabrio at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Maserati will use the 2011 Geneva Motor Show to take its grand-touring convertible to a new level of performance and handling with the GranCabrio Sport.
Conceived to give the GranCabrio a harder-edged model to sit alongside the GranTurismo S and the Quattroporte Sport GT S, the GranCabrio Sport uses a more powerful and fuel-efficient version of Maserati’s, all-alloy 4.7-litre V8, coupled with the ZF six-speed automatic transmission.
This naturally aspirated engine produces in this configuration 331 kW (450 horsepower) and has 510 Nm at the peak of its rich, thick torque curve. Maserati’s Friction Reduction Program has made the GranCabrio Sport’s engine more reactive to the driver’s most-nuanced inputs, while reaching a 6% reduction in fuel consumption. The top speed of the GranCabrio Sport is 285 km/h.
 This six-speed transmission is equipped with the super-fast MC Auto Shift software and has been developed for the GranCabrio Sport directly from the transmission in the Quattroporte Sport GT S. The MC Auto Shift provides optimised gearshift response resulting in an even-greater engagement.
The handling has received attention, too, with an upgrade and revision of the Skyhook active-suspension system – now with a sportier tuning – and the adoption of grooved and drilled dual-cast brake discs.
Visually, the GranCabrio Sport is characterised by a more-pronounced dynamic look. This look begins at the GranCabrio’s distinctive nose with a black grille and a Trident with red accents. The headlights now have a black look with white sidemarks, while front corner splitters and the redesigned side skirts are both body coloured.
The GranCabrio Sport also debuts a new body colour for Maserati: Rosso Trionfale inspired by the red Italian national colours used on 1950s racing Maseratis – in 1957, Juan Manuel Fangio won his fifth F1 World Title at the wheel of a red Maserati 250F.
The GranCabrio Sport will be on sale in all of Maserati’s 62 markets starting from summer 2011.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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| MASERATI presents the 'GranTurismo MC Stradale' |
MASERATI
GRANTURISMO MC STRADALE
Check out the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale on this video clip at www.youtube.com/ ( You need Adobe Flash Player to watch this video. )
Modena, September 30, 2010. The new Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale will be the fastest, lightest and most powerful car in the Maserati range when it goes on sale in the first quarter of 2011. Inspired by the Trofeo GranTurismo MC and the race-winning GT4 motorsport models, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale will have more power, less weight, razor-sharp handling and a top speed of over 300 km/h.
The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale responds to demands for a GranTurismo which can balance on-road driving needs with race-driving desires and it incorporates the handling and aerodynamic lessons from Maserati’s three racing programs. It produces more aerodynamic down force without producing more aerodynamic drag, it produces more power without using more fuel and it is more agile without sacrificing the GranTurismo S’s highly praised ride quality.
With 330kW (450 horsepower), the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale generates more power (7 kW, 10hp) from the 4.7-litre V8 engine than the GranTurismo S, while its 510Nm of torque is a further 20Nm improvement. Its race-bred heritage is highlighted by a 110kg weight reduction from the GranTurismo S, down to 1770kg. It mirrors Maserati’s racing advantages by retaining an optimal 48 : 52 weight distribution, ensuring balanced handling and even tyre wear.
The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale uses advanced electronics to cut gear-shift times from the upgraded MC Race Shift electro-actuated transaxle gearbox to just 60 milliseconds. This all helps to slash the 0-100km/h sprint time, which the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale covers in just 4.6 seconds.
The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale is also the first Maserati in history to have a dedicated Race mode alongside the upgraded Auto and Sport modes in its simplified dashboard layout.
With the removal of the rear seats, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale becomes the first two-seat Maserati since the MC12. The GranTurismo MC Stradale has also benefited from new Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, custom-developed Pirelli tyres, a unique suspension layout and rigid, light-weight, carbon-fibre race seats.
The push for the GranTurismo MC Stradale came from existing Maserati customers who wanted a road-legal super sports car that looked and felt like the GT4 and Trofeo race cars. The GranTurismo MC Stradale also provides the latest step in the well-trodden path between Maserati’s racing programs and its production road cars and, often, back again. In the 1990s, the Ghibli Open Cup race car gave birth to the Ghibli Cup and a decade later the Trofeo GranSport gave birth to the GranSport MC Victory. At the pinnacle of recent Maserati’s road-to race story, the FIA GT-winning MC12 was developed directly from the MC12 Stradale.
With a unique body design that is based around the requirements of the track, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale has borrowed heavily from its racing car stablemates, the Maserati GranTurismo MC, both in the Trofeo and GT4 configurations. It has a new front splitter, bumper, bonnet, front guard panels, sills, exhausts and even a new rear bumper. To emphasize the harder-edged nature of the GranTurismo MC Stradale, Maserati even offers the car with an optional roll cage and a four-point racing harness.
Yet it was also designed to be easy to drive, so it retains all the inherent ride, handling and stability benefits of the GranTurismo S’s long wheelbase. It has the speed to be a road-legal racing car, yet it has the progressive handling to be considered an extremely usable super-sports car.
In this configuration, the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale will be on sale in February 2011 in all major markets, with the exceptions of the USA, Canada and Korea.
A dedicated website is already online at www.maseratigranturismomcstradale.com.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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| MASERATI presents the Quattroporte Sport GT S "Awards Edition" |
QUATTROPORTE SPORT GT S "Awards Edition"
Based on the Quattroporte Sport GT S, the “Awards Edition” celebrates the countless awards that the Maserati flagship saloon has received since its debut.
The Quattroporte Sport GT S “Awards Edition”, the latest jewel in the Maserati range, will make its official debut at the prestigious Geneva Auto Show next week. The car will be unveiled during the press conference, on Tuesday, March 2nd 2010 on the Maserati stand (n.1051) at 13:45.
Six years after its birth, the car that created the luxury sport saloon segment continues to receive accolades from the general public, automobile aficionados and the media. Maserati has decided to celebrate its success with a superlative version, which blends the elegance and sporty stylishness of the brand’s flagship, thanks to the combination of highly refined details, handcrafted finishes and features with a decidedly sporty flair.
 During its six years of life, the Maserati Quattroporte has received no less than 56 awards from the most prestigious automotive and lifestyle publications in 14 countries over four continents. A global recognition for a car that has known how to renew itself over the years, still never failing to maintain the appeal of the lines and purity of the forms created by Pininfarina, which immediately made it an instant classic.
The Quattroporte Sport GT S “Awards Edition”, based on the Quattroporte Sport GT S, aims to combine in one car all the features that have made the Trident flagship a benchmark in its segment:
the unique and elegant styling, mixed with a hint of sporting flair thanks to the eye-catching features adopted on both the exterior and interior fittings;
driving enjoyment, because the “Awards Edition” is based on the Quattroporte Sport GT S, which boasts top-class performance and excellent handling;
the craftsmanship of the hand-finished details which make each car unique.
 The new Quarzo fuso exterior colour – a pearlescent metallic grey with a golden hue – exclusive to this model, makes the exterior instantly recognisable, and highlights the body’s elegant lines. The burnished treatment used on the exterior chrome parts, as well as on the side air vents and radiator surround, also matches the 20-inch Multi Trident dark grey rims with satin finish.
The braking system which uses dual-cast technology, is further enhanced by the hand-polished callipers both at the front and rear. With the Quattroporte Sport GT S “Awards Edition”, Maserati and Brembo are introducing on the market for the first time polished callipers, treated with high precision mechanical processes and featuring a hand finish which gives them their special mirror-like appearance and enhances their sporty credentials at the same time.
 The interior also bears witness to the combination of sporting flair and craftsmanship that have always characterised the Maserati flagship saloon. The Poltrona Frau leather of the seats is combined with perforated Alcantara with a new undulated pattern, and the headlining is also in Alcantara. Completing the cabin finishes are the special brushed aluminium door sills and Piano Black satin-finish wood mouldings.
The boot is finished in black trim and features chrome details and a leather side pocket. The attention to detail has even been extended to the mats, which are made of an even richer and softer material.
A special exterior “Awards Edition” series plate completes the car’s look and makes an already unique car even more unmistakable.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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| MASERATI presents the 'GranCabrio' |
THE MASERATI GRANCABRIO LAUNCHED AT THE FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW
The Maserati GranCabrio, the first four-seater convertible in the Trident carmaker’s history, made its world wide debut on September 15 at the 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 litre V8, 323 kW 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.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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| MASERATI GB presents the 'Quattroporte for Centurion special series' |
Maserati GB and American Express Centurion are delighted to announce the arrival of the new Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion special series. Officially unveiled at Forbes House, in London’s Belgravia in front of an exclusive audience of American Express black card holders, the Pininfarina designed luxury saloon was received with great enthusiasm.
The Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion special series is exclusively built to order: finished in stunning metallic Nero Carbonio (carbon black), it features a sumptuous Bianco Polare (polar white) Poltrona Frau® leather interior with embossed Centurion logo on the headrests, a bespoke numbered plaque, titanium coloured trim and 20” ball polished rims.
The Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion special series is based on the latest evolution of Maserati’s iconic flagship saloon, combining distinctive Italian styling with prodigious performance and peerless driving dynamics. The styling is characterised by the radiator grille, a ‘modern’ classic of Maserati design, accompanied by a range of enhanced technological features, with their most eye-catching expression in the LED rear-light clusters.
 The Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion 4.2 is powered by an impressive 400 hp 4.2 litre V8 engine, powering the car to a top speed of 167 mph and allowing it to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.6 seconds. The fully automatic ZF gearbox ensures a smooth and responsive ride in all conditions.
The Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion 4.7 represents the ultimate fusion of the luxury saloon with Maserati’s renowned sporting prowess. With a 4.7 litre, 430 hp engine under the bonnet, the Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion 4.7 is propelled to an eye watering top speed of 174 mph with a blistering 0 to 62 mph time of just 5.4 seconds. The dual-cast brake discs, combined with the car’s near perfect weight distribution ensure that the Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion 4.7 offers an unparalleled driving experience.
Prices will start from £88,315 for the Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion 4.2 and £94,185 for the Maserati Quattroporte for Centurion 4.7.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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MASERATI presents the 'Quattroporte Sport GT S'
Making its International Debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show
"On the 70th anniversary of Maserati’s first Indianapolis 500 win" |
 Modena – December 22nd, 2008
The new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S sets yet another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury saloon segment of the automotive market. Conceived and developed as “a real driving machine in the guise of a luxury saloon”, 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 440bhp (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 also evident due to the interior and exterior 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-coloured 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 coloured” composite material.
The new Quattroporte Sport GTS will be unveiled at the 2009 NAIAS in Detroit. The Maserati press conference will take place on the Maserati stand at 9:40am on January 12th, 2009.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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MASERATI presents the 'GranTurismo S "MC Sport Line" '
"The GranTurismo S 'MC Sport Line' enhances the sporty DNA of Maserati" |
 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.
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-fibre 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 fibre. 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 fibre characterizes the door panels, dashboard and central tunnel.
 The steering wheel rim is also made from carbon fibre, 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 fibre 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.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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MASERATI presents the 'Quattroporte and Quattroporte S'
"A Second Masterpiece!" |
 Maserati Quattroporte, the model which created the category of "Luxury Sports Sedan", can be considered something of a Maserati masterpiece. After five years of success, with more than 15 000 cars delivered and 46 international awards, the Quattroporte is now being presented with a new look and new technical solutions.
The history of art is characterised by audacious artists who challenged pre-existing conventions and contributed seminal works. Some artists even challenged themselves by remodelling their own works and taking them to the next level.
Leonardo Da Vinci produced a second version of his masterpiece known as "The Virgin of the Rocks" and, 400 years later, Matisse reinterpreted his original version of "Le Luxe". They are essentially new works; although they are identical in size and very similar in composition to the originals; it is the new style that makes the second versions the most influential.
With some degree of similarity, Maserati is now realising its second "painting": the new Maserati Quattroporte.
Thanks to Pininfarina's unrivalled and skilful hand, the Maserati Quattroporte is being refined in a fresher and more modern way, yet always mindful of the class, glamour and exclusivity which characterise the Maserati Quattroporte's style.
The personality and glamour of the Maserati flagship are now represented by two products: the Quattroporte and the Quattroporte S. The former is fitted with the familiar 4.2 litre 400 Hp V8 engine, while the latter adopts the new 4.7 litre 430 Hp V8 recently introduced on the GranTurismo S, with a different specification. Both cars have the 6-speed automatic transmission developed in association with ZF.
The main styling changes are to the most recognisable features. First of all the front, where the new grille, with its vertical slats, is reminiscent of the GranTurismo. The front and rear light units are also updated, featuring LEDs. On the side, the under-door moulding is more noticeable, with a line that runs into that of the new bumpers, which have a wider protective band and more pronounced rear styling. The door mirrors are also new, with a more dynamic shape and a more streamlined mounting to the door.
The interior has a new central console; the controls are grouped more closely together for even more convenient operation.
The car's range of navigation systems is also fully updated, now comprising the New Maserati Multimedia System.
Two new shades of leather, Marrone Corniola and Sabbia, replacing the beige which was previously in the range, debut on the Quattroporte S and Quattroporte respectively.
The new Quattroporte and Quattroporte S will be on sale from September, and in the UK from October. However, they will be presented to customers and Maserati lovers in different locations all over the world from July onwards.
The Maserati Quattroporte - It just gets better and better!!
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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MASERATI presents the 'GranTurismo S'
"Eleganza con Potenza!" |
 A year after the unveiling of the GranTurismo, Maserati is back at the Geneva International Motorshow with yet another world premiere, the GranTurismo S, the ultimate expression of the Marque’s sportiness. The new interpretation of the perfect balance between sportiness and comfort shifts the emphasis onto performance and driving enjoyment.
The new 440 hp V8 4.7 engine, with a maximum torque of 490 Nm at 4750 rpm, electro-actuated gearbox with fast MC Shift, Transaxle layout, sporty exhaust and brakes made with dual-cast technology make the GranTurismo S the new flagship for Maserati sporting flair, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a maximum speed of 295 km/h, the highest ever reached by a production Maserati.
 The compact and lightweight 4.7 litre V8 engine develops maximum power output of 440 hp at 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 490 Nm at 4,750 rpm, and ensures high specific power output and more torque at lower speeds as well, without affecting the capacity to up the revs quickly, typical of racing engines. The increase in power output and torque has not affected the versatility of the power unit, which continues to be readily harnessed even during everyday use. It sounds deep and throaty, but the exhaust valve pneumatic control can also be activated to make it discrete.
An electro-actuated 6-speed gearbox is paired with the 4.7 litre V8 engine, and has MC-Shift software which harnesses the new engine’s power output, ensuring new unbeatable gearshift performance in terms of the whole sports car range.
 The gearshift solution known as MC-Shift is the most important innovation of the electro-actuated system on the Maserati GranTurismo S: this includes management software and special hardware components which give top performance in terms of gearshift times.
In conventional electro-actuated systems the three shift phases (cut in torque and opening of clutch; gear disengagement, selection and engagement; closing of clutch and restoration of torque) are carried out sequentially.
On the Maserati GranTurismo S the shift phases are partially overlapped: gear disengagement and engagement take place in advance of clutch opening and closing; this means that the shift time, interpreted and calculated as the break in acceleration, drops to 100 ms, whilst the single gear engagement phase reduces to 40 ms.
 The fast MC-Shift is available only when shifting up and in Manual Sport mode, provided that the transmission control unit recognises when given parameters relating to engine and transmission temperature are achieved: the quick shift is possible above 5500 rpm and with the throttle at 80%.
Once these parameters have been achieved, the system enables fast shift and warns the driver through the MC-S indicator on the dashboard display, which lights up and stays on.
The engine and gearbox on the Maserati GranTurismo S are arranged in the Transaxle layout, typical of high-performance sports cars and representing the technological DNA of Maseratis. The front-mounted engine, and the gearbox, located to the rear, are rigidly connected by a tubular element containing the driveshaft. This solution gives excellent weight distribution, 47% over the front axle and 53% over the rear axle, which translates into excellent dynamics and top performance.
 Looking through the spokes of the new 20” rims on the GranTurismo S you can see the high-performance brake system developed in collaboration with Brembo.
The system features front brake discs made with dual-cast technology — a dual casting of cast iron and aluminium, paired with aluminium mono-bloc 6-piston brake callipers.
This technology, introduced for the first time in the automotive field on the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S, optimises the braking system’s performance, by emphasising pedal feel and increasing fatigue-resistance in the most extreme conditions.
At the wheel, the Maserati GranTurismo S is more rigid and compact, thanks to the suspension layout developed specifically to support the new weight distribution. Vehicle roll has been reduced significantly as a result of the modified springs, bars and dampers, and this has benefited handling and performance.
On the outside the Maserati GranTurismo S is distinguished by a number of aesthetic modifications that, although discrete, are highly effective and serve to make the car body appear even sportier without abandoning the sleekness of the lines masterfully designed by Pininfarina. The integrated spoiler in the boot lid and the new-design side skirts help to improve the flows around the car. On top of that, the Maserati GranTurismo S boasts new specially designed 20” rims, which resemble the Trident, Maserati’s symbol.
 The sporty look is complemented by the generously proportioned oval-section exhaust tailpipes. The radiator grille and headlight casings are black, while the Trident on the grille and the oval badge below the hood are embossed in red, in true Maserati racing tradition.
The interior upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara (used for the steering wheel and centre of the seat with the option to extend to the whole of the headlining) reflect the sporty flair of the Maserati GranTurismo S; the front and rear seats are distinguished by their new dynamic design with horizontal piping on the seats and seatbacks.
As an alternative to the standard leather/Alcantara, trim classic interiors are available in all Poltrona Frau leather, or in full-grain Pekary leather with a sporty and more refined look.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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| MASERATI presents the 'Quattroporte Sport GT S' |
 The new Quattroporte Sport GT S was launched in a world premiere at the Frankfurt Motorshow in September 2007.
The car is the ultimate sporting expression of Maserati's flagship model.
Developed for those looking for an even sportier ride from a luxury berlina, the Quattroporte Sport GT S, equipped with an automatic 6-speed gearbox, stands out for its exceptional dynamic response and precise handling.
This result was obtained with the introduction of a single-calibration suspension system and a racing set up. The ride was stiffened by fitting new springs and dampers and by lowering the front end by 10mm and the rear by 25mm.
The Quattroporte Sport GT S boasts a unique braking system developed in collaboration with Brembo. This innovative technology uses composite cross-drilled discs, the first time such a set up has been employed on a road car.
Unlike traditional cast iron discs, composite cross-drilled discs are constructed from two materials, cast iron and aluminium. This optimises braking, improving performance in the most extreme conditions and providing greater resistance to fade even at the highest temperatures. The braking system on the Quattroporte Sport GT S employs new single-piece, six-piston callipers in the front and has tyres developed especially for this car (front 245/35-R20 and rear 295/30-R20). These larger tyres provide improved traction while the new tyre compound works with the brakes and suspension set-up to assure even better handling and a more involving drive.
The exterior of the Quattroporte Sport GT S has a distinctive and assertive look. The black chrome mesh grille is an element that distinguishes this sporting version of the Maserati Quattroporte. This design cue is echoed by the black coloured window frames and twin exhaust pipes and by the body coloured door handles.
The Quattroporte Sport GT S is fitted with eye-catching Dark Chrome 20-inch, seven-spoked alloy wheels.
Even the choice of material for the interior of the Quattroporte Sport GT S reflects the car's dynamic character. Traditional Poltrona Frau leather has been combined with the Alcantara that covers the centre of the seats, door panels and the boss of the steering wheel. Maserati has previously used Alcantara for the interior of the competition versions of the Trofeo and the MC12.
The instrument panel is in carbon fibre with a new aluminium weave design. In the rear, comfort levels have been improved with the new, more body-hugging seats.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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Quattroporte Sport GT S |
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Quattroporte Sport GT S |
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| MASERATI presents the 'GranTurismo' |
 The brand-new, long-awaited Maserati GranTurismo, styled by Pininfarina, made its worldwide debut at the Geneva Auto Show.
The muscular Maserati GranTurismo is suitable for everyday use, with excellent handling, a very sporty feel and a thrilling drive. But the Maserati GranTurismo is also a car which pays attention to comfort, materials, details, with a capacity of up to four people and inside space in the unique Maserati style. A high-performance sports car, exciting to drive, it has a V8 4.2 engine with 405 hp at 7,100 rpm and a maximum torque of 460 Nm at 4,750 rpm, of which 75% is already achievable at 2,500 revs. Its maximum speed is 285 kph, and it accelerates from 0-100 in 5.2 seconds.
Weight distribution is 49% on the front, 51% at the rear. The gearbox is automatic with self-adjusting controls which adapt the gear change to the driving style and conditions.
The car is 4,881 mm long with a wheel base of 2,942 mm. The standard wheel rim is 19" or 20" as an optional.
 The everyday pleasure of sitting in the Maserati GranTurismo is related to the fact that you are cocooned in a captivating design that is pleasant to look at and to touch due to the high-quality materials, enhanced by the appeal of the craftsmanship and love of detail in the execution.
Once seated on board, the Maserati GranTurismo does not disappoint. The ample exterior dimensions are matched internally, guaranteeing all four passengers maximum comfort also on long journeys.
A design with a strong visual impact, intended to outshine the other manufacturers:
Its style is inspired by the lines of the Pininfarina Birdcage 75th concept car
Style and dimensions blend into a thoroughbred and ultra-sporty car body, but never going over the top, always well-proportioned and elegant.
Everyday enjoyment:
 More room in the back than the average for the segment
The rear seats have been designed to accommodate two adults comfortably even on long journeys, which makes the vehicle a perfect example of Maserati's concept of a great touring car.
Pleasure of being on board: attractive design, wide range of materials, leather, woods and color combinations available
The key words that describe the interior style are: modernity, elegance, craftsmanship, sportiness, liveability.
The interior is divided longitudinally by the center tunnel which ideally almost distributes the available space between the passengers on the left and right sides. The dashboard lies horizontally and features right along its top a decorative "V" shaped element, the distinctive feature of the Maserati marque. By drawing attention to the top part of the dashboard this helps create that sporty feeling of sitting close to the floor.
 The attention to detail exudes from a number of features such as the subtle chrome inlay that elegantly decorates the buttons on the dashboard and steering wheel, the Trident logo hand-crafted on the seat headrests, the Alcantara trim lining the back of the gear change paddles, the leather belt fitting, front seats, beautifully handcrafted.
The basic material is Poltrona Frauâ leather, a true expression of Italian craftsmanship, both as regards the rich quality of the raw material used and the traditional processing techniques adopted. The Poltrona Frauâ leathers used for the interior trim of the Maserati GranTurismo are the product of a thorough selection process, designed to ensure the highest quality and pleasurable contact with the natural material. The refined processes that they undergo add durability, strength and practicality to the attractive appearance and soft-to-the-touch quality.
The natural character and distinctive process used, which combines original mechanical solutions and individual hand-craftsmanship, make the leather soft and cozy in winter, cool and fresh in summer, and give it that very particular feature that makes ageing a factor that actually enhances the quality.
Adaptive light controls: another aspect that shows the attention to detail and innovative ideas.
The effective dual-xenon lights which are fitted to the Maserati GranTurismo can be enhanced by the rotation function which improves illumination of the carriageway and surrounding areas and hence improves driving safety whilst traveling at night on very winding routes.
The electronic high and low beam control unit captures the instantaneous information relating to steering and angle as well as driving speed and actuates special electric motors to rotate the light cones.
 Maserati's gran turismo tradition began in 1947, at the Geneva Auto Show, where the Modena car manufacturer presented the A6 GranTurismo styled by Pinin Farina, at the request of several customers. It was the first road going Maserati and 58 vehicles were produced. The car's technical features and original, cutting-edge style were enthusiastically received by the motoring press.
Ten years later, in 1957, once more at the Geneva Auto Show, Maserati presented its first standard gran turismo, the 3500 GT. This was the car that would transform Maserati into a fully-fledged car manufacturer, while the production of road going vehicles took priority over racing cars. A total of 1,983 3500 GT models were produced in seven years.
The name of the new model - Maserati GranTurismo - is no coincidence. Once again, the Maserati - Pininfarina team has produced an exciting car whose construction, unique and inimitable style sets it apart from the competition.
With the new Maserati GranTurismo, Maserati is continuing the completion of its range, a direction which began at the NAIAS in Detroit in January with the launch of the Quattroporte Automatica.
 
The 1947 A6 1500 GranTurismo and the 1954 A6GCS Berlinetta by Pinin Farina
Maserati chooses Ferragamo
Maserati has chosen Salvatore Ferragamo, a world leader in the production of luxury accessories, to interpret the outstanding class of the brand-new GranTurismo with a sleek luggage set made from exclusive high-quality materials.
Perfect for him or her in any travel situation, the five-piece set gives you total freedom and versatility on the move: a large case, a weekend bag, beauty case, suit holder and dual-function shoe case with removable divider. A sophisticated design inspired by the contours of the new GranTurismo radiator grille, in a set that will adapt to even the most individual style. This made to order set can be customized in two different materials and four different colours.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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Original Pininfarina design sketches |
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| MASERATI presents the 'Quattroporte Automatic' |
 Maserati opens 2007 with a significant product development and even more varied product range, allowing for a wider client reach and increase in sales volumes.
With a view to varying its range even further, Maserati is about to launch the new Quattroporte Automatic alongside the current Quattroporte fitted with the DuoSelect gearbox.
The name, Quattroporte Automatic, describes the car's main innovation. The new hydraulic 6-speed transmission, a result of the collaboration between Maserati and ZF, is entirely new and has been designed to guarantee fluid gear changes and exceptional driving comfort. The new lay-out of the transmission system emphasises the progressive power delivery of the Maserati V8 engine particularly at low engine speed without limiting its power.
 The current Quattroporte has a transaxle layout, and it has been impossible to fit an automatic gearbox at the rear of the car, so Maserati has re-engineered the floor pan to fit the gear box and its torque converter in the conventional front position. The redesign and addition of a torque converter has caused the weight balance of the Quattroporte to shift from the rear-biased 47/53 to a more neutral 49/51.
The international press was given a preview of the Quattroporte Automatic at the Detroit Motor Show, and the car will be on sale worldwide from January.
Launched in 2003, the Quattroporte immediately grabbed the attention of the media and car enthusiasts alike, thanks to its sophisticated, elegant design, content and performance-enhancing technology. The car has even created a new market segment for luxury sport sedans, and is the archetype of a category that is now being explored by other prestigious names in the car industry. Since 2003, the Quattroporte has received 28 awards from the world's press: a tangible sign of its popularity in the motor industry and with the public.
 The new range is also enriched by new options: two new colours are presented for the body (Granite Grey and Ocean Blue) and a new type of wood, Tanganyika, while the interior now can be ordered in a two tone colour scheme.
The Quattroporte Automatic seals the worldwide success of the Quattroporte:
- 9000 units sold to date, a record setting car for Maserati;
- 28 awards in the three years since its debut;
- Over 90% sales increase in North America in 2005, with volumes maintained in 2006;
- A car which returned a 2.5 million dollar winning bid at auction in November 2006 (Reach Out to Asia) benefiting school children in the Middle East and Asia.
Text and photos courtesy of Maserati
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