06 Mar 08
The GranTurismo S is a top-end Italian luxury coupe, and the fastest-yet production Maserati.
It gets a new 440bhp/361lb ft 4.7-litre V8, giving 0-60 in 4.9 seconds and 183mph, and an electro-actuated gearbox with unique transaxle layout. This six-speed gearbox uses an electronic system called MC-Shift, said to offer "unbeatable" shift times when in sequential-shift mode. Its positioning to the rear, and the mounting of the engine as far back in the engine bay as possible, gives a weight distribution 57% over the rear axle.
Modifications to the suspension include new springs, anti-roll bars and dampers, reducing body roll, and the brakes have been uprated by Brembo. 20-inch wheels are fitted, along with new side skirts, a bootlid spoiler, oval-section exhaust tailpipes, and black radiator grille and headlight casings, all unique to this model, and inside, there is sumptuous leather/alcantara upholstery. And just for full effect, the pneumatic control of the exhaust valve can be selected for either a quiet purr or a "deep and throaty" roar.
Maserati says that it built a record 7,353 cars last year at its Modena factory, with sales picking up since the launch of the GranTurismo last summer.
Check out the rest of our Geneva Motor Show coverage.
