Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Watch Maserati prep this Quattroporte for Geneva by hammering on its sheetmetal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/maserati-quattroporte-hammer-video-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/maserati-quattroporte-hammer-video-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/maserati-quattroporte-hammer-video-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Maserati Quattroporte - Geneva Motor Show - hammering sheetmetal - video screencap

There are untold amounts of primping and set up that goes on in the days leading up to an international auto show. Of course, there are exhibits to erect, lights to hang and scripts to rehearse. There are also cars to prep. Usually the latter involves little more than removing finger prints and dusting, but in the case of Maserati the day before the Geneva Motor Show press days, the process apparently includes banging on the sheetmetal of one of your prized showcars like a crazed woodpecker.

We're not sure what caused a surface irregularity in the door skin of this 2014 Quattroporte - perhaps shipping damage - but it was interesting (and mildly painful) to watch, and hear, a show prepper attempt to PDR repair this six-figure sedan with a jeweler's hammer, high-intensity light and soft cloth.

That'll buff right out.

Continue reading Watch Maserati prep this Quattroporte for Geneva by hammering on its sheetmetal

Watch Maserati prep this Quattroporte for Geneva by hammering on its sheetmetal originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 maserati quattroportegenevageneva 2013geneva motor showhammermaseratimetalworkmetalworkingquattroportevideoTue, 05 Mar 2013 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20488425/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/05/maserati-quattroporte-hammer-video-geneva-2013/20488425/article-detail.xml 20488425 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/hammering-on-2014-maserati-quattroporte_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/hammering-on-2014-maserati-quattroporte.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati Ghibli overtakes Levante, headed for Shanghai?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/maserati-ghibli-overtakes-levante-headed-for-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/maserati-ghibli-overtakes-levante-headed-for-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/maserati-ghibli-overtakes-levante-headed-for-shanghai/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Maserati Ghibli prototype cold-weather testing

While earlier reports indicated that the next Maserati product out of the gate would be the Levante SUV, Motor Trend is now reporting that the Audi A7-shaped Ghibli has cut in line. Word is that we may see the new Ghibli as early as the Shanghai Motor Show in April.

Citing unnamed sources, MT predicts that the minds at Maserati now see a more pressing need to fight off the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the BMW 5 Series than to go after luxury utes. However, if our spy shots of Ghibli prototypes are anything to go on, it's also likely that the sub-Quattroporte Maser won't be a traditional sedan. The car above's long nose, low roof and brief, sloping rear deck all bring to mind Audi's lovely A7, Meaning the Ghibli may fall into the always murky four-door-coupe/luxury hatchback genre.

Bi-turbocharged iterations of both a V6 and a V8 should make up the early powertrain choices for the Maserati, meaning the top-spec Ghibli should have loads of shove to match its promised good looks.

Maserati Ghibli overtakes Levante, headed for Shanghai? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 maserati ghiblighiblimaseratiquattroporteshanghaishanghai 2013shanghai motor showspy shotsWed, 13 Feb 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20460373/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/13/maserati-ghibli-overtakes-levante-headed-for-shanghai/20460373/article-detail.xml 20460373 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/maserati-ghibli-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/maserati-ghibli-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Quattroporte kicks off 50th anniversary for Maserati with new V6, AWD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/2014-maserati- quattroporte-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/2014-maserati- quattroporte-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/2014-maserati- quattroporte-detroit-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



It's not that often that we get to talk about a new Maserati model, but that's all about to change. The Italian automaker is using the 2014 Quattroporte to begin a lineup expansion that will soon grow to no fewer than five models. Entering its sixth generation, the Quattroporte has been completely redesigned, and is also adding a new V6 engine and all-wheel drive.

Pictures of the car were released last year and we've even had the chance to drive the car in France already, but we finally got to see both the 410-horsepower V6 and 530-hp V8 versions of the car at its debut at the Detroit Auto Show. The new Quattroporte is 100-percent Maserati with its svelte-ye-aggressive styling, but it adds more of a mainstream look to better compete with the growing number of high-end luxury sedans. Not all of the Autoblog staff consider it an improvement, but it doesn't stray too far from the Italian styling of the last model.

The interior has also been brought up to date with modern infotainment technology and improved luxury courtesy of a longer wheelbase bringing more space to rear-seat occupants. While the V8 we drove had a bench rear seat and oddly retro-modern wheels, the car on display had more conventional wheels and the two-passenger rear seat bucket seat layout.

Both engines used in the new Quattroporte are proprietary to Maserati and produced by Ferrari in Maranello. A new all-wheel-drive V6 model, called the Q4, will now be offered, and it will allow a 50:50 torque split between the front and rear axles. Scroll down for the official press release for the new Quattroporte.

Continue reading 2014 Quattroporte kicks off 50th anniversary for Maserati with new V6, AWD

2014 Quattroporte kicks off 50th anniversary for Maserati with new V6, AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 maserati quattroportedetroitdetroit 2013maseratiquattroporteTue, 15 Jan 2013 09:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20428621/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/15/2014-maserati- quattroporte-detroit-2013/20428621/article-detail.xml 20428621 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-maserati-quattroporte-detroit-2013---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-maserati-quattroporte-detroit-2013---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Autocar</i> compares new Maserati Quattroporte to Jaguar XJ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/autocar-compares-new-maserati-quattroporte-to-jaguar-xj/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/autocar-compares-new-maserati-quattroporte-to-jaguar-xj/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/07/autocar-compares-new-maserati-quattroporte-to-jaguar-xj/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Autocar's Steve Sutcliffe took the 2014 Maserati Quattroporte on a spin along snowy mountain roads to test it for a specific brief: as a limousine for the chauffeured class. It's sporting credentials are impressive: Twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8, 532 horsepower, 475 pound-feet of torque in casual circumstances that rises to 532 lb-ft in overboost, a 0-to-60 mile-per-hour sprint of 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 191 mph.

However, citing Maserati's desire to not just increase its sales to 50,000-per-annum by 2015, but to sell many more of its cars in China, Sutcliffe wanted to find out if the livery side of the Quattroporte could match its sport sedan side. So after taking the pilot's seat and trying out the sport settings, Sutcliffe hops in back to test out the CEO's seat.

Then he compares the Quattroporte against the long-wheelbase Jaguar XJ with its supercharged V8, a sedan that's 15,000 pounds less expensive than the Maserati. It doesn't take long for him to find that one of them is a clear winner when it comes to transporting VIPs. To find out which one, enjoy the video below.

Continue reading Autocar compares new Maserati Quattroporte to Jaguar XJ

Autocar compares new Maserati Quattroporte to Jaguar XJ originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 maserati quattroporteautocarjaguarmaseratiquattroportesteve sutcliffevideovideosxjyoutubeMon, 07 Jan 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20418605/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/07/autocar-compares-new-maserati-quattroporte-to-jaguar-xj/20418605/article-detail.xml 20418605 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/quattroportejaguar-xj_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/quattroportejaguar-xj.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Maserati Quattroporte goes on a night run]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/02/2014-maserati-quattroporte-goes-on-a-night-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/02/2014-maserati-quattroporte-goes-on-a-night-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/02/2014-maserati-quattroporte-goes-on-a-night-run/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2014 Maserati Quattroporte development video screencap

While it was in development, Maserati rolled out its 2014 Quattroporte for a little testing, but rather than slather the big luxury sedan in gobs of camouflage to protect from it prying eyes, engineers used the cover of darkness to conceal the vehicle's design. Then they made a video about their cleverness and posted it on the Internet. The team spent some time whipping around the Balocco Proving Ground with chief test driver Fabrizio Galvan at the controls to evaluate the sedan's new drivetrain, noise levels and handling in the real world.

We got our hands on the 2014 Quattroporte last month for a first drive ahead of the vehicle's North American debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. You can read our impressions here, but first, take a look at the video below for a new glimpse at the machine's development.

Continue reading 2014 Maserati Quattroporte goes on a night run

2014 Maserati Quattroporte goes on a night run originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 maserati quattroportebaloccomaseratiquattroportevideoWed, 02 Jan 2013 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20413586/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/02/2014-maserati-quattroporte-goes-on-a-night-run/20413586/article-detail.xml 20413586 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/quattroporte-teaser-video-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/quattroporte-teaser-video-628.jpg <![CDATA[Leak confirms Maserati product plans, five new models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/leak-confirms-maserati-product-plans-five-new-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/leak-confirms-maserati-product-plans-five-new-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/leak-confirms-maserati-product-plans-five-new-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



It isn't a secret that Maserati is planning a product expansion in an attempt sell 50,000 units annually by 2015, but the automaker hasn't officially announced just how it plans to do so. Yes, we've seen (and driven) the 2014 Quattroporte, checked out spy shots for the smaller Ghibli sedan and Maserati even confirmed the Levante name for its SUV, but a leaked document reported by CarScoop could shed some light on how the Italian automaker intends on carrying out its rapid growth.

According to the image, the new Ghibli and Levante models will considerably lower the entry price point for the Maserati brand with the sedan having a price range from around $72,000 up to just over the $100,000 mark, with the SUV starting at close to $80,000 and topping out at almost $200,000. It also looks like the GranTurismo and GranCabrio will be getting redesigned in the near future at which point the new Gran Sport model will be added to the mix - otherwise known as the which often-rumored sports car with which Maserati will do battle with the Porsche 911.

Leak confirms Maserati product plans, five new models originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ghibligran sportgrancabriogranturismolevantemaseratiquattroporteFri, 28 Dec 2012 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20412831/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/28/leak-confirms-maserati-product-plans-five-new-models/20412831/article-detail.xml 20412831 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/future-maserati-plans-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/future-maserati-plans-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Maserati Quattroporte [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Vastly Upgraded Italian Speed Sedan Kicks Off Brand Renaissance

2014 Maserati Quattroporte

The sixth-generation Maserati Quattroporte is big - and not just because it's 6.5 inches longer than before with a wheelbase that stretches 4.3 inches beyond its predecessor. The new Quattroporte is big also because it's a huge deal both for its segment and for Maserati. Just as FoMoCo is finally chucking $1 billion at Lincoln MoCo, so too is Fiat investing 1.2 billion euros ($1.55 billion at the time this writing) in Maser's future hopes of achieving the larger success we all have wished for it. And after a thorough drive over the intensely challenging mountain roads of France's Mediterranean coast, we can't deny that there's finally reason to put some faith in this long overdue investment.

The much-applauded outgoing Quattroporte enjoyed a reputation of being among the very fastest executive sedans of its day, all while delivering the sportiest overall ride and handling, even in base trims. Yet there was constant corporate-level dysfunction that kept all Maseratis from getting important upgrades or receiving much-needed investment support. So, the outgoing Quattroporte has up until now sort of languished nobly, largely resting on the laurels it earned when it launched way back in 2003.

With continued proper mother company support and ambitious marketing initiatives finally on the table, this all-new 2014 Maserati Quattroporte looks fit to help lead "Il Tridente" through some huge changes as the company prepares to celebrate its centenary in December of 2014. First off, from its current annual total sales figure of 6,000 or so units, Maserati is confident that its global sales will reach 50,000+ per annum by the end of 2015, thanks certainly to all-new product coming on soon like a house afire. Try not to scoff at that too much. Rather cheer when the lights hit the new Quattroporte this January at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, knowing that new products are on the way to help the FourDoor and the Gran Turismo in their quest for this ambitious volume target.

Continue reading 2014 Maserati Quattroporte [w/video]

2014 Maserati Quattroporte [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 maserati quattroportefeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivemaseratiquattroporteWed, 12 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20400551/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-first-drive-review-video/20400551/article-detail.xml 20400551 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati looking to book 13,000 sales of new Quattroporte in 2013]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/maserati-looking-to-book-13-000-sales-of-new-quattroporte-in-201/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/maserati-looking-to-book-13-000-sales-of-new-quattroporte-in-201/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/10/maserati-looking-to-book-13-000-sales-of-new-quattroporte-in-201/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Maserati Quattroporte - front three-quarter view

Europe's continuing financial woe is forcing automakers to get creative, and while Fiat may be scaling back its volume vehicles, it's looking to ramp up production of the exclusive Maserati brand. Following the debut of a new Quattroporte sedan, Fiat wants to boost Maserati sales to 50,000 vehicles by 2015. Maserati may lose as much as €7 million ($9.05 million) this year, and Fiat is betting big on Chrysler platforms and dealers to turn that around.

Currently regarded as a low-volume boutique carmaker, Maserati sold just 6,159 units last year, and 4,700 units through three quarters of this year. For 2013, Fiat boss Sergio Marchionne is targeting 13,000 in sales of the redesigned Quattroporte alone. Fiat apparently wants the brand's low volume image to change, hoping to position it closer to BMW and Porsche in the market.

The recent unveiling of the new Quattroporte will be followed by more new vehicle launches, including a crossover utility called Levante, and a long-promised sub-Quattroporte sedan, called Ghibli. The latter will share certain components with the Chrysler 300 sedan in an effort to optimize production costs. The Ghibli will be positioned to take on the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. It's all in an effort to turn the profit tide for Maserati and its parent company Fiat amidst European economic turmoil.

Maserati looking to book 13,000 sales of new Quattroporte in 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiatghiblilevantemaseratimaserati levantemaserati quattroportequattroporteMon, 10 Dec 2012 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20398820/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/10/maserati-looking-to-book-13-000-sales-of-new-quattroporte-in-201/20398820/article-detail.xml 20398820 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-maserati-quattroporte_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-maserati-quattroporte.jpeg <![CDATA[2014 Maserati Quattroporte to get twin-turbo V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/04/2014-maserati-quattroporte-to-get-twin-turbo-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/04/2014-maserati-quattroporte-to-get-twin-turbo-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/04/2014-maserati-quattroporte-to-get-twin-turbo-v6/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As we wait for the Detroit Auto Show to get our up-close and in-depth look at the redesigned 2014 Maserati Quattroporte, some details are just starting to emerge about the car's powertrain, but nothing is official just yet. Autocar has posted a first drive of the new Quattroporte, finally spilling the beans about what motivates this sporty and luxurious sedan.

We already knew that the 2014 Quattroporte will offer two engines - a V6 and V8 - but what we didn't know is that both engines will get a pair of turbochargers and direct injection. Previously, we speculated that the smaller V6 would be supercharged, but this 3.0-liter V6 will get turbos instead helping it produce an estimated 410 horsepower. As for the larger 3.8-liter V8, this engine is said to produce 530 horsepower (confirming our previous report) to go with 479 pound-feet of torque; performance specs for the V8 include a top speed of 191 miles per hour and a 0-60 mph time of well under five seconds.

All cars will have a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive will be optional allowing for all of the engine power sent to the rear wheel during normal driving and a full 50/50 split between front and rear axles when needed. As we suspected, the 2014 Quattroporte has grown in size to better compete with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

With the Detroit Auto Show coming up in about a month, stay tuned as we await official details from Maserati.

2014 Maserati Quattroporte to get twin-turbo V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 maserati quattroporte2014 maserati quattroportemaseratiquattroporteTue, 04 Dec 2012 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20393670/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/04/2014-maserati-quattroporte-to-get-twin-turbo-v6/20393670/article-detail.xml 20393670 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-maserati-quattroporte_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-maserati-quattroporte.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati releases quartet of videos featuring new Quattroporte]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/maserati-releases-quartet-of-videos-featuring-new-quattroporte/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/maserati-releases-quartet-of-videos-featuring-new-quattroporte/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/maserati-releases-quartet-of-videos-featuring-new-quattroporte/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Maserati Quattroporte - front three-quarter view with lights on

In case you missed it, Maserati has decided to introduce the world to its next Quattroporte well ahead of its official debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show in January. As expected, it's beautiful.

Not content to leave well enough alone, the Italian automaker has revealed a series of videos to go along with the six images and press release it had already let loose upon the globe's unsuspecting automotive press.

We're still a bit shaky on the details, but Maserati says the Quattroporte's new engine, assembled by Ferrari in Maranello, will "[establish] new benchmarks for Maserati in terms of power and acceleration." That sounds good to us, though we're not sure if that means 530 horsepower as possibly alluded to by the license plate on the press shots. We also note that the automaker says the car is designed to accept "a wide range of engine architectures," so that rumored supercharged V6 sounds likely.

Maserati promises lower weight will bring increased performance and efficiency, despite the fact that its next Quattroporte will be "much larger than the previous" model.

Watch all four videos below, and stay tuned for our live coverage from Detroit in T-minus two months.

Continue reading Maserati releases quartet of videos featuring new Quattroporte

Maserati releases quartet of videos featuring new Quattroporte originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 maserati quattroporte2014 maserati quattroportemaseratiquattroportevideoTue, 06 Nov 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20372164/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/06/maserati-releases-quartet-of-videos-featuring-new-quattroporte/20372164/article-detail.xml 20372164 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/maserati-quattroporte-2013-vidcap_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/maserati-quattroporte-2013-vidcap.jpg <![CDATA[New Maserati Quattroporte revealed before Detroit debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/new-maserati-quattroporte-revealed-before-detroit-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/new-maserati-quattroporte-revealed-before-detroit-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/new-maserati-quattroporte-revealed-before-detroit-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Well that didn't take long at all. Although we just saw spy shots of the new Maserati Quattroporte last week, Maserati has now taken the wraps off its redesigned sedan ahead of a confirmed Detroit Auto Show debut. Although no official details for the car were released just yet, we can infer quite a few changes just from the images. Celebrating 50 years of the Quattroporte, Maserati is referring to this new car as a 2013 model, but it will arrive next year for the 2014 model year in the US.

The overall exterior styling of the new Quattroporte hasn't evolved too far away from the current car. There is still the sloping hood, vented fenders and shapely body lines, but it also gets a much sleeker roofline and more steeply raked front glass. It also appears that the rear wheels no longer cut into the rear doors, suggesting a longer wheelbase. The biggest change made to the car's styling is found in the rear of the car where horizontal taillights and exhaust tip design now gives it a strong Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG vibe. Inside, the four-passenger sedan now gets a more stylish two-tier instrument panel, a larger touch-screen display on the center stack and what looks to be equally sized monitors for the rear-seat entertainment system.

Under the hood, we can definitely tell that the Quattroporte still uses a V8, but aside from the press release calling it an "all-new next generation powertrain," we don't have any real details of what powers the car. Or do we? The rear 3/4 image of the new design shows a license plate number of "QP 530 HP" possibly suggesting the engine's output has been raised to 530 horsepower up from the current 425. We are also expecting a supercharged V6 at some point down the line with an output of around 420 hp, and it is likely that both engines will be paired to eight-speed automatic transmissions.

Scroll down for Maserati's quote-filled press release.

Continue reading New Maserati Quattroporte revealed before Detroit debut

New Maserati Quattroporte revealed before Detroit debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 maserati quattroporte2014 maserati quattroportedetroit auto showmaseratiquattroporteTue, 06 Nov 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20371881/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/06/new-maserati-quattroporte-revealed-before-detroit-debut/20371881/article-detail.xml 20371881 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-maserati-quattroporte_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-maserati-quattroporte.jpg <![CDATA[This is our clearest look yet at the next Maserati Quattroporte]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/02/this-is-our-clearest-look-yet-at-the-next-maserati-quattroporte/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/02/this-is-our-clearest-look-yet-at-the-next-maserati-quattroporte/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/02/this-is-our-clearest-look-yet-at-the-next-maserati-quattroporte/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The best look we've had at the next Maserati Quattroporte so far was found in patent drawings that could have substituted for a whole lot of other cars. But seen here is a more useful glimpse, courtesy of someone on the lookout in Italy who caught a prototype in a skin-hugging wrap.

Maserati has apparently gone with the Charles Eames philosophy on the redesign: "The details are not details. They make the design." The overall line is familiar - not such a bad thing even on this 10-year-old sedan - but the detailing appears to have been refined and made sleeker. The taillights themselves should make for an especially interesting feature if the camo'ed car can be trusted.

The next Quattroporte is predicted to be roughly 450 pounds lighter than the current car, and underhood grunt is expected to come from a 520-horsepower, 5.2-liter turbocharged V8 at launch, followed by a 420-hp, supercharged V6 supplied by Ferrari, both working through an eight-speed ZF transmission.

This is our clearest look yet at the next Maserati Quattroporte originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Nov 2012 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maseratiquattroportespy photosspy picsspy shotsFri, 02 Nov 2012 13:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20366480/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/02/this-is-our-clearest-look-yet-at-the-next-maserati-quattroporte/20366480/article-detail.xml 20366480 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/maseratiquattroportespies_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/maseratiquattroportespies.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati dubs new SUV Levante, new sedan to resurrect Ghibli moniker]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/maserati-dubs-new-suv-levante-new-sedan-to-resurrect-ghibli-mon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/maserati-dubs-new-suv-levante-new-sedan-to-resurrect-ghibli-mon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/maserati-dubs-new-suv-levante-new-sedan-to-resurrect-ghibli-mon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Building on the introduction of the GranCabrio MC that debuted at the Paris Motor Show, Maserati is planning three new models over the next couple of year in an attempt to raise sales to 50,000 units annually by 2015. While we think that that is a pretty lofty goal for a boutique automaker, redesigning its flagship sedan and adding two all-new models in popular segments sounds like a great plan of attack

The first new car we'll see from the Italian automaker is the next generation of the Quattroporte which will be a fitting way to celebrate the car's golden anniversary. We've already seen spy pictures of the new Quattroporte testing as well as a series of patent drawings that reportedly show the car's basic lines. Expect the new Quattroporte out sometime next year with a possible launch at the Detroit Auto Show.

Following the new Quattroporte, we'll finally get to climb behind the wheel of a Maserati SUV... just not the Kubang. Maserati confirmed that its new utility vehicle, based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, will in fact be named the Levante. We already knew that Maserati would definitely not be using the odd Kubang name after this year, but if the Levante name sounds familiar, it's because we previously reported that this name would be used on a sedan slotting in below the Quattroporte.

Speaking of this new sub-Quattroporte sedan, Maserati also announced that this all-new model would wear the Ghibli name. Both previous Maserati Ghibli models were sporty two-door cars, but this latest take on the name will be a full-size sedan going up against cars like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series. No word as to when we might see the new Ghibli on the road.

While we have the naming down for Maserati's newest products, we have few other details about these three new models, but we suspect Maserati will remedy this over the next year or so.

Continue reading Maserati dubs new SUV Levante, new sedan to resurrect Ghibli moniker

Maserati dubs new SUV Levante, new sedan to resurrect Ghibli moniker originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 04:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 maserati quattroporte2014 maserati levanteghiblikubanglevantemaseratimaserati sedanmaserati suvquattroporteFri, 28 Sep 2012 04:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20335807/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/28/maserati-dubs-new-suv-levante-new-sedan-to-resurrect-ghibli-mon/20335807/article-detail.xml 20335807 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/maseratikubang19-1315926298_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/maseratikubang19-1315926298.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Maserati Quattroporte revealed in patent drawings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-revealed-in-patent-drawings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-revealed-in-patent-drawings/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-revealed-in-patent-drawings/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Maserati Quattroporte Patent Drawing - front three-quarter overhead view

Curious about what the 2014 Maserati Quattroporte will look like? Recent spy shots of the big Maserati sedan haven't been much help, but now we have this: Three alleged patent drawings found by AutoWeek.nl. Better fire up your imagination, however, as like all European Patent Office images, these sketches have the unique ability to suck the beauty out of even Italian cars. Truth be told, if AutoWeek.nl had told us this was a new Buick, we might have believed them.

That said, we can certainly see the resemblance in the rear to the Maserati GranTurismo, with a similar C-pillar and that little flipped-up spoiler. In the front, too, we imagine the new Quattroporte will resemble its sportier sibling, with the crude lines from these drawings turned into more voluptuous curves through the magic of modern manufacturing.

Rumors say the next-gen sedan will be available with a choice of two engines assembled by Ferrari, either a turbocharged V8 or a supercharged V6. We're likely to see the new Quattroporte in the flesh for the first time at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

2014 Maserati Quattroporte revealed in patent drawings originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 maserati quattroportemaseratipatent drawingsquattroportespy photosspy shotsThu, 12 Jul 2012 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20276182/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-revealed-in-patent-drawings/20276182/article-detail.xml 20276182 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2014-maserati-quattroporte-patent-drawings-01-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2014-maserati-quattroporte-patent-drawings-01-628.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati Quattroporte to get Ferrari-built supercharged V6, turbo V8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/08/maserati-quattroporte-to-get-ferrari-built-supercharged-v6-turb/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/08/maserati-quattroporte-to-get-ferrari-built-supercharged-v6-turb/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/08/maserati-quattroporte-to-get-ferrari-built-supercharged-v6-turb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Maserati Quattroporte test mule

According to Car and Driver, the next-generation Maserati Quattroporte is slated to get two all-new forced-induction engines sourced from Ferrari.

At launch, the Quattroporte will be introduced with its range-topping engine, a 5.2-liter turbocharged V8, good for something like 520 horsepower. That's all well and fine, but the big news is that a smaller, supercharged V6 will launch shortly thereafter, pumping out around 420 horsepower. That's right, Ferrari will be making a V6.

C/D reports that the supercharged V6 comes from the group that is heading up the development of Ferrari's new 1.6-liter turbocharged six for use in future Formula One racers. This new 420-hp engine is said to be about 30 percent more efficient than the V8 currently found in the Ferrari California. The Quattroporte itself is tipped to be about 450 pounds lighter than its predecessor, which should also help in the efficiency department.

Both engines will be available with a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission. The current car's automated manual transmission option will no longer be offered.

We've seen the automaker's forthcoming Q-ship out testing on a number of occasions, and C/D believes that the new car will officially bow at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show in January.

Maserati Quattroporte to get Ferrari-built supercharged V6, turbo V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jun 2012 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 maserati quattroporteferrariferrari v6maseratiquattroportev6v8Fri, 08 Jun 2012 17:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20254555/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/08/maserati-quattroporte-to-get-ferrari-built-supercharged-v6-turb/20254555/article-detail.xml 20254555 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/maserati-quattroporte-spy-shot-1-1331237987_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/maserati-quattroporte-spy-shot-1-1331237987.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati developing exhaust-note simulation system for upcoming diesels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/maserati-developing-exhaust-note-simulation-system-for-upcoming/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/maserati-developing-exhaust-note-simulation-system-for-upcoming/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/maserati-developing-exhaust-note-simulation-system-for-upcoming/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S Awards Edition - rear three-quarter view

If you watched 2011's The Dilemma and thought there's no way automakers would actually pipe artificial engine notes into their cars, think again. Several companies have been developing exhaust-note simulation systems, particularly for electric cars - be it for the sake of enjoyment or safety. But EVs aren't the only cars that will benefit from engine notes reproduced through speaker systems: so will some high-end performance machinery.

When BMW switched its M5 performance sedan from a V10 to a twin-turbo V8, it lost some of the exhaust note for which the model had become known, so it devised a system to pipe engine sounds into the cabin for the benefit of those inside. Now Maserati may be following a similar path.

A new report from What Car? indicates that Maserati is working on ways to simulate exhaust notes on its forthcoming models. Now if you're thinking that Maserati's engines - particularly the V8 developed and built for it by sister-company Ferrari - don't need any help in that department, well, you're right. But soon the Trident marque will be offering diesel engines as well.

The oil-burners are being developed for two new models of the current Quattroporte (pictured above) - one bigger than the current model and one smaller - and probably for the production version of the upcoming Kubang SUV (which will arrive wearing a different name). While the high-revving eight-cylinder gasoline versions may not require any aural stimulation, the diesel versions just might, and Maserati's boffins may just have the answer.

Maserati developing exhaust-note simulation system for upcoming diesels originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselengine soundkubangmaseratimaserati dieselmaserati kubangmaserati quattroportequattroportesynthesizerTue, 29 May 2012 19:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20246910/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/29/maserati-developing-exhaust-note-simulation-system-for-upcoming/20246910/article-detail.xml 20246910 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/maseratiquattroporteawardsedition001_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/maseratiquattroporteawardsedition001.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati gearing up to produce Alfa 4C, new sedan in Italy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/maserati-gearing-up-to-produce-alfa-4c-new-sedan-in-italy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/maserati-gearing-up-to-produce-alfa-4c-new-sedan-in-italy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/maserati-gearing-up-to-produce-alfa-4c-new-sedan-in-italy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Production of the upcoming Maserati Kubang may be set for the Jefferson North plant where Chrysler builds the Jeep Grand Cherokee on which the high-riding Maserati will be based, but that doesn't mean that the Trident marque is giving up on production in its home country of Italy anytime soon.

According to statements made by union officials, Maserati is gearing up to produce a new four-door sedan at a facility on the outskirts of Turin - although whether that is the larger replacement for the Quattroporte or its upcoming baby brother remains unclear - but that's not all. Maserati, according to reports, has also been tasked with building the 4C sportscar for sister-brand Alfa Romeo, much like it had with the higher-end 8C Competizione that came before.

Between the two new sedans, the SUV, the ongoing production of the GranTurismo line and the Alfa 4C, Maserati sure seems to have its hands full - with a little game of musical factories - for a brand currently represented by two model lines.

Maserati gearing up to produce Alfa 4C, new sedan in Italy originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4c4c gtaalfa romeoalfa romeo 4calfa romeo 4c gtakubangmaseratimaserati kubangquattroporteFri, 13 Apr 2012 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20214438/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/13/maserati-gearing-up-to-produce-alfa-4c-new-sedan-in-italy/20214438/article-detail.xml 20214438 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/4c-live09_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/4c-live09.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati looking to double global dealer network to capitalize on new model push]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/maserati-looking-to-double-global-dealer-network-to-capitalize-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/maserati-looking-to-double-global-dealer-network-to-capitalize-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/maserati-looking-to-double-global-dealer-network-to-capitalize-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Maserati Kubang

According to Automotive News, Maserati is looking to expand its dealer network in a big way. The luxury Italian automaker intends to double its dealers by the end of next year in an attempt to take advantage of a rash of new models heading for production. All told, Maserati intends to have around 500 showrooms open by the time the new vehicles roll in, and CEO Harald Wester says that the majority of the growth will happen this year. While the automaker sold just under 6,200 units last year, Wester wants to see that number swell to 40,000 in 2014 and 60,000 by 2015.

That's a substantial jump, but with an all-new Quattroporte on the way as well as a production version of the not-yet-named Kubang, Wester believes the numbers are attainable. Maserati has also made it clear the company will offer an entry level sedan positioned below the big Quattroporte, which will likely do a smart job of bringing in even more customers.

Maserati looking to double global dealer network to capitalize on new model push originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kubangkubang conceptmaseratimaserati quattroportequattroporteMon, 12 Mar 2012 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20190802/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/12/maserati-looking-to-double-global-dealer-network-to-capitalize-o/20190802/article-detail.xml 20190802 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/maserati-kubang-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/maserati-kubang-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[First prototype of 2013 Maserati Quattroporte caught]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/first-prototype-of-2013-maserati-quattroporte-caught/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/first-prototype-of-2013-maserati-quattroporte-caught/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/first-prototype-of-2013-maserati-quattroporte-caught/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Maserati Quattroporte Spy Shot

It looks as if work is officially underway on the next Maserati Quattroporte. Our spy photo friends managed to click the first few images of a pre-production prototype stretching its legs on public streets. The four-door is covered in enough cladding to successfully obscure any hint of new body work, but from what we're told, there's a whole new chassis under there. The rear-wheel-drive architecture is built to accommodate all-wheel drive as well. Where, perchance, would Maserati secure the engineering to put power to all four corners? If the whispers we hear are true, the tech could be lifted from none other than the Ferrari FF.

Speaking of Ferrari, the next-generation Quattroporte will likely continue to get its thrust from the same beefy Italian V8 found in the current generation, though adjustments for either power or fuel consumption would be a smart guess. We've even heard hints of a hybrid drivetrain in development. Stay tuned. With prototypes on the road, it's only a matter of time before we spot one with a little more metal showing.

First prototype of 2013 Maserati Quattroporte caught originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maseratiquattroportespy shotsFri, 09 Mar 2012 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20189208/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/09/first-prototype-of-2013-maserati-quattroporte-caught/20189208/article-detail.xml 20189208 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/maserati-quattroporte-spy-shot-1-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/maserati-quattroporte-spy-shot-1-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog goes one-on-one with the Pininfarina Cambiano Concept [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/autoblog-goes-one-on-one-with-the-pininfarina-cambiano/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/autoblog-goes-one-on-one-with-the-pininfarina-cambiano/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/autoblog-goes-one-on-one-with-the-pininfarina-cambiano/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Italian Turbine-Powered Calling Card For A New Era...And A New Maserati Quattroporte?



The global meltdown that boiled to the surface in 2008 was really hard on a lot of car companies, but it was categorically horrendous for the tradition of Italian car craftsmanship out of Turin.

Of the three big players left in the traditional Italian design mecca - Italdesign Giugiaro, Bertone and Pininfarina - only Giugiaro has managed to avoid administrative takeover of its debts and assets by working out a major deal with longtime allies Volkswagen to sell them 90.1 percent of the firm. Both Bertone and Pininfarina are currently trusted to oversee their own operations but are nonetheless bonded to pay off significant operational debts to Italian banks after having hammered out merciful sweetheart low-interest deals. Neither has succeeded in closing mutually agreeable VW-style takeover bids, but both would probably prefer not doing so anyway.

The Geneva Motor Show has been treated as Italy's (and my) hometown gig ever since the once wonderful Turin auto show fizzled away in 2002. One of the great spectacles of the Swiss salon is seeing the three major houses unveil their trinkets to the press, their stands traditionally placed side-by-side for maximum effect. This year, Italdesign Giugiaro will naturally show off some Volkswagen conceptual thinking, while Bertone has once again chosen a whimsical dream showcar approach with its 1970 Stratos-inspired Nuccio concept meant to commemorate Corrozzeria Bertone's centenary.

But the Pininfarina stand will most likely steal the attention of showgoers. How can you lose with a spanking new and hot Ferrari F12 Berlinetta and a concept that seems to hint at a future replacement for the Maserati Quattroporte?

Continue reading Autoblog goes one-on-one with the Pininfarina Cambiano Concept [w/video]

Autoblog goes one-on-one with the Pininfarina Cambiano Concept [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cambianogenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmaseratimaserati quattroportepinin farinapininfarinapininfarina cambianoquattroporteFri, 02 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20184073/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/02/autoblog-goes-one-on-one-with-the-pininfarina-cambiano/20184073/article-detail.xml 20184073 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/pininfarina-cambiano-concept-geneva---09-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/pininfarina-cambiano-concept-geneva---09-opt.jpg -1 2