Maserati brings big enhancements for 2012
Making the best even better for discerning enthusiasts
2012 looks set to be another strong year for Maserati, as the resurgence of the Italian marque continues all over the world. North America is no exception, and remains the Trident’s strongest market thanks to superior products that continue to appeal to true enthusiasts. With the introduction of the GranTurismo MC and the GranTurismo Convertible Sport, Maserati expects to be busier than ever. Here is a look at the model line-up for 2012.
The GranTurismo S Automatic and Quattroporte have gained accolades for combining luxurious elegance with truly sporting nature – but Maserati never rests on its laurels. For proof, just take a look at the new Maserati GranTurismo Convertible Sport. Fitted with the latest iteration of the Trident’s superb V8 engine, its 4.7 liters deliver a mighty 444 hp – yet because of efficiency improvements, it also uses less fuel. To allow the engine to breathe – and provide maximum aural enjoyment – the Sport exhaust features bypass valves which give the spirited exhaust note even more character. The MC Autoshift transmission is ideally matched to the sporting nature of the car; in manual mode, each gear will be held right to the red-line, and a double-declutch throttle ‘blip’ has been added on downshifts.
Naturally, the car’s handling has also been further optimized; the GranTurismo Convertible Sport is equipped with Sport-Skyhook adaptive suspension which has been specifically calibrated for sharper handling. Exterior styling has not been forgotten. Dark-look trim is standard, including the front grille, and is matched by sharp new Astro Design 20” wheels. The car’s occupants also receive special treatment; the new M-Design seats now feature adjustable lumbar support on both front seats, while the Maserati Trident on the headrests can be finished in the same contrasting stitching as the rest of the interior
The interior of the GranTurismo Convertible Sport can be further customized. In keeping with the performance focus of the car, much of the interior trim can be formed of high quality carbon fiber. The center console, shift paddles and instrument surround can be crafted from the high-tech material, and there is also a carbon fiber and black leather steering wheel available for drivers who want to feel the future in their hands.
The pinnacle of the GranTurismo range is the new GranTurismo MC; its name is derived from Maserati Corse, the elite team which develops racing versions of Maserati cars. The name is well-suited to the car, the unique look coming from specially-developed aerodynamic bodywork – front and rear fenders, a hood that incorporates air extraction vents and new side-skirts. An aggressive rear diffuser incorporates two centrally mounted exhausts, while under the hood is the 444 hp version of the 4.7-liter V8 engine, giving the GranTurismo MC a spectacular top speed well over 180 mph. Race-inspired, street-tuned coil-over, single-rate suspension is standard, while Skyhook adaptive damping is available as an option.
The GranTurismo MC is available with both the exterior mirrors and rear spoiler in carbon fiber, and carbon-look door handles. The skeletal spokes of the MC Design 20” wheels make the red-painted Brembo brake calipers clearly visible; and the finishing touch is the MC aluminum pedals.
The Maserati Quattroporte has long been the luxury sedan of choice for performance-oriented drivers, and the 2012 version is no exception. Both the Quattroporte S and the Quattroporte Sport GTS are fitted with the 4.7-liter V8 engine that gives them their glorious and distinctive exhaust note; the Sport GT S emphasizes this with a Sport exhaust featuring bypass valves. It is also equipped with a single-rate Sport suspension system; the Skyhook adaptive suspension, standard on the Quattroporte S, is an option.
Maserati has created several packages of popular options for the 2012 Quattroporte, representing excellent value through significant savings over the individual option prices. For example, the Premium Package equips a Quattroporte with painted Brembo brake calipers, Alcantara® headlining, and contrasting stitching and piping of the interior upholstery – at a price which represents a remarkable savings over the price of the individual components.
The GranTurismo S Automatic continues to be the coupe of choice for the driver who wants stunning looks, a luxurious interior, sporty handling and room for four adults. It is now available with the new Rosso Trionfale paintwork, a color specially chosen to be a close match for the ‘national’ red paint used on racing Maseratis in the 1950s. As capable of sprinting to 60mph in under 5 seconds as it is of crossing continents at high speed in supreme luxury, yet perfectly usable as a daily driver, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic is the epitome of all that a true ‘grand tourer’ should be.
Whichever Maserati you desire, and whichever option packages meet your needs, contact us at (888) 903-5160 to learn more and arrange a test drive.
