Maserati to Revamp Quattroporte With V12?

With newer, more powerful motors en route to Maserati, the Italian firm has also taken the opportunity to address another

The solution to the Quattroporte's current transmission problem is to source a completely new autobox. (Photo: Maserati)

powertrain problem - the Duo-Select six-speed sequential box, based on the Cambiocorsa "F1" gearbox. The gearbox has been criticized for being rough and jerky, despite Maserati's efforts to smoothen out its action.

The cure to this problem isn't so much a solution, as it is the addition of an entirely different automatic transmission. A supplier has already been contracted to develop this smooth-shifting autobox, though it is unknown whether it will utilize a conventional torque converter, or dual-clutch technology (similar to Audi's DSG gearbox).

Surprisingly, Maserati has shown little interest in building a long-wheelbase version of the Quattroporte. In its first two generations, the stretched "Royale" model sold with limited success, with many of them custom built to the specifications of Middle-Eastern oil magnates. With a V12 powerplant, it would make

The addition of the automatic gearbox and the V12 engine will be the most significant overhaul to the Quattroporte since its introduction. (Photo: Maserati)

perfect sense for Maserati to consider the limo-like sedan again, but insiders suggest that officials within the company aren't pushing the idea.

The addition of the automatic gearbox and the V12 engine will be the most significant overhaul to the Quattroporte since its introduction. These changes are aimed particularly at North America, one of the largest markets for V12-powered luxury sedans, and for Maserati. Currently, the car is available in one powertrain configuration, but the model expansion should help to bring in a greater number of customers and increase brand appeal.