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| Maserati gives Ferrari entry into the sizable and potentially profitable sedan market they've always wanted without diluting the prancing horse brand's sporting image. This conceptual drawing of an early Pininfarina design is slightly different than the rear 3/4 shot shown previously. Check out the differences in the photo gallery. (Photo: Pininfarina) |
On the whole the upcoming Quattroporte will not only represent a distinct and exclusive alternative to the current crop of luxury sedans, but will resolve longstanding and reportedly often heated discussions among Ferrari executives. Even Enzo himself pondered the possibility of a 4-door Ferrari to increase market reach and profitability, but thankfully chose not to risk diluting the Italian marque's most coveted asset, its brand identity. THe addition of Maserati to the family has changed all that. Its rich sedan heritage not only allows for entry into the high volume vertical but even sets the groundwork for a sport utility vehicle to rival Porsche's controversial new Cayenne.
The new Maserati sedan shows forward thinking by a company that is once again becoming one of the most innovative in the premium sport/luxury class. While I'm secretly hopeful the finished design at least remotely reflects Ricerche e Sviluppo's refreshing Tokyo shown scale model, I'm resolved that any new Quattroporte will be an exciting new entry in what has become an overly Germanic market segment.
Specifications:
- Body Types: 4-door sedan
- Layout: front-engine, RWD
- Base Engine (est): 385-hp, 346 lb-ft of torque, 4.2-L, 32-valve, DOHC V8
- Opt Engine (est): 650-hp, 485 lb-ft of torque, 6.0-L, 48-valve, DOHC V12
- Transmission: 6-spd Cambiocorsa sequential paddle-shift manual
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, EBD, MSR
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Direct Competitors: Audi S8, BMW 760Li, Jaguar XJR, Mercedes-Benz S55/S600
- Web Site: www.maserati.com
