Maserati GranTurismo unveiled

By Ben Barry

Motor Shows

08 March 2007 03:31

So, one of the show’s biggest stars then?

Absolutely. The world debut of the new Maserati GranTurismo was one of the show’s most eagerly awaited moments. The name goes back to Maserati’s road car roots, an A6 Gran Turismo being unveiled in 1947 at Geneva as the company’s first-ever road car. Styled by Pininfarina, the new car is far more aggressive than the Coupe it replaces without sacrificing the brand’s trademark elegance. A huge concaved grille dominates the front end – something clearly inspired by the Quattroporte – while muscular creases define the rear. Two coupes were displayed on the stand though a Spyder will follow later.

The GranTurismo uses the same 4.2-litre V8 as found in the Quattroporte – and forms the basis of the Alfa 8C’s 4.7-litre V8 – mated to the large saloon’s much improved ZF automatic transmission. This remains the only transmission confirmed so far, a contributory factor being the US market which is expected to take 40 percent of all cars. However, expect a Duoselect semi-auto to follow. Maximum power of 405bhp is achieved at 7100rpm, while the torque curve peaks at 4750rpm with 339lb ft, helping the Gran Turismo to 62mph in 5.2sec and on to around 175mph.

By Ben Barry