The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

New Maserati Guzzles Less Gas


PHOTO (select to view enlarged photo)

By Henny Hemmes
Senior European Editor
Amsterdam Bureau
The Auto Channel

Geneva March 3, 2009; Even an Italian sports car manufacturer cannot neglect the fact that its modeld need to improve on fuel efficiency. That is why in 2005, Maserati implemented a development project for five years to reduce consumption and CO2 emissions.

From then on, the fuel consumption of the Quattroporte has been reduced by 20 per cent, while the CO2 emission of the Gran Turismo dropped 10 percent compared to the former model.

The new Quattroporte 4.7 is according to the Euro 5 and American LEV2 standard, partly thanks to a new metallic catalyser.

In Geneva, the Italians presented a new version of the Quattroporte, the 440 hp strong Gran Turismo S Automatic, that was not yet on stage in Europe. It is the combination of the 4.7-liter V-8, that so far only was available with a hand shifted electro-actuated gearbox, and the ZF 6-speed automatic transmission used only in the 4.2-liter version. The new model can be recognized by some subtle styling chances, such as the new min-skirts on the sides and the new 20-inch wheels with the brand new Trident design. Inside drivers can now be connected by Bluetooth and use the optional Ipod interface.

MORE: Maserati Buyers Guide