Maserati's Sedan, the Quattroporte, which literally means four doors, isn't the fastest four door out there, but it is possibly one of the sexiest. It exudes Italian luxery from every angle. It very much resembles what a four door Ferarri much be like. This comparison if further bolstered by the fact that Maserati and Ferrari are sister companies and the Quattroporte actually uses Ferrari sourced engines.
A heavy car, to be sure, at 4400 lbs. However due to some very sound technology and careful engineering, it feels much lighter behind the wheel than it actually is. The ride is softer and suppler than many of the other Italian cars, tuned to meet the tastes of more American drivers.
The Quattroporte is available in three trim levels. While the base model is a well appointed, high performance luxury sedan, the top trim levels: S, and GT S, offer even more performance. The base 4.2 liter V-8 is good for 400 HP and 339 Ft. – Lbs. of torque. The high end 4.7 liter V-8 brings this up to 425 Hp and 361 Ft. – Lbs. of torque.
The Range
Bodystyles: Sedan
Engines: 4.2L V-8, 4.7L V-8
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic, 6-speed auto-clutch manual
Models: Quattroporte, S, Sport GTS
What's New
For 2011, the mid-level Quattroporte S receives the exterior enhancements found on the high-end Sport GTS model, including red-painted brake calipers, black headlight surrounds, 20-inch Multi-Trident silver wheels, and more. Two new packages that group popular options are available for base and S models and all Quattroportes now have the same multimedia head unit from the GranTurismo that features a 6.5-inch display.
Exterior
The Quattroporte is one of the sexier designs in its class, whether you choose the base model or the visually upgraded S and Sport GTS trims. The same basic shape has been in production for years and that's no bad thing.
Interior
With the addition of an updated 6.5-inch multimedia head unit into all Quattroportes, the interior might not feel as outdated as it once did. There are millions of possible interior combinations utilizing all manner of leather, wood, and Alcantara trim.
Performance & Handling
Base Quattroportes get a 4.2-liter V-8 producing 400 horsepower. Move to the S model and the top speed is bumped to 174 mph and the engine is a 4.7-liter V-8 with 425 horsepower. Upgrading to the Sport GTS trim and you'll have one focused Quattroporte, with a single-setting suspension that's been stiffened 30 percent at the front and 10 percent at the rear.
Safety
Front airbags, side curtain airbags, side impact airbags in the front doors, electronic brake force distribution, Brembo braking system, and the Maserati Stability Program, which integrates stability and traction control, are all part of the Quattroporte safety package.
EPA Fuel Economy
Quattroporte: 11 mpg city/17 mpg highway
Quattroporte S, Sport GTS: 11 mpg city/18 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Italian styling
- Updated multimedia system
- Muscular engine
- Inimitable charm
You Won't Like
- Limited dealer network
- Fuel economy
Sum Up
Stylish break from the expected
If You Like This Vehicle
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- Jaguar XJ
- Porsche Panamera
- Aston-Martin Rapide
- Audi A8