2012 Maserati Quattroporte

2012 Maserati Quattroporte

We already know that the Maserati Quattroporte will be getting a smaller engine in order to reduce fuel consumption, which is something that is quite a trend nowadays. But while the Quattroporte’s competitors, such as the Audi A8 and the Porsche Panamera 4, are making their vehicles longer, Maserati says that their sedan "will not get any bigger."

"Even though our rivals – such as the new Audi A8 – are getting longer, we have to keep it as a sporty alternative," said Fiat design boss Lorenzo Ramaciotti. The new model will be unveiled in 2012 and will be offered with a four-wheel drive system and stop-start technology, that will also help to reduce fuel consumption. Maserati’s goal is to reduce fuel consumption by about 15 percent. Under the hood Maserati will place downsized V6 and V8 engines, as well as an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox (also offered in the BMW 7-Series).

Exterior and Interior

The new generation Maserati Quattroporte will take its design inspiration from the brand’s latest models, the GranTurismo coupe and convertible. On the exterior, the Maserati will receive a completely new design, but the current grille treatment will remain the same. The interior will get improved technology and a more luxurious treatment.
Engine

The top version of the Maserati Quattroporte will receive an improved version of the current 4.7-liter V8 engine, which delivers 440 HP. The engine will be mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox. Entry levels will obviously be on the less powerful side of the spectrum with a V6 engine. All models will be offered with a four-wheel drive system and stop-start technology.

Competition

The new generation Maserati Quattroporte will be designed and engineered in order to attack models like the Aston Martin Rapide and the Porsche Panamera.

The Aston Martin Rapide is powered by a hand-built 6.0-liter V12 engine that delivers a total of 470 HP and 443 lb-ft of peak torque at 5000 rpm. The engine is mated to a specifically tuned six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission and will sprint the car from 0 to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds on its way out to a top speed of 188 mph. The Panamera will be offered with V6 and V8 engines. Power will range from 300 to 500 bhp depending on the trim level and will be mated to either a manual six-speed gearbox or seven-speed Double-Clutch Gearbox (PDK).

Both of these models feature power outputs that are beyond what the Maserati is capable of, but with the new Quattroporte, Maserati’s focus was on improving fuel consumption so we’ll have to wait for those figures in order to see if the brand was truly successful.