As with the other models in the Maserati range, Parlato said, the driver can choose between two levels of gear changing.
''Normal mode is more comfortable and typical of Grand Tourer driving,'' he said, ''while with a touch of the Sport button on the central console they get to feel the true power of the car.''
The Sport mode delivers much faster gear changing, Parlato said, and a deeper exhaust sound and less invasive use of the stability and traction control systems.
The optional Skyhook suspension system, which offers continuous damping control, is also affected by the driver's choice of Normal or Sport modes.
''For more comfort-oriented driving,'' Parlato said, ''there is even an Auto button which puts the gears in full automatic mode so that the driver need do nothing more than sit back and enjoy the thrilling experience of driving a Maserati. However, the Sport function can still be activated in this mode.''
Parlato added that the Maserati GranSport also boasts all of the many excellent technological and safety features offered by the Maserati Grand Tourers, but with some very important refinements.
The car has the same set-up as the Coupé Cambiocorsa, he said, including
-a transaxle layout with the gearbox rear-mounted in unit with the differential, stability and traction control, which the driver can deactivate if desired
-independent front and rear suspension with double wishbone geometry, which can be integrated with the Skyhook system on request
-the Skyhook adaptive damping system which instantly adapts the damper calibrations to suit the driving and road conditions and allows the driver to choose between normal and sport.
The set-up has been lowered by 10 mm and the adoption of the 19-inch wheels and tyres with a specific profile (front 235/35 19", rear 265/30 19"), characterised by a smaller slip angle, have lowered the centre of gravity and hardened the set-up of Maserati GranSport, said Parlato, ''making it even more agile and responsive to the steering wheel.''