The new Maserati GranTurismo, styled by Pininfarina, made its worldwide debut first as a 2008 model. The new coupe is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine and delivers a nimble weight distribution of 49 percent at the front and 51 percent at the rear.
The engine delivers 405 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 339 pound-feet of torque at 4,750 rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters for the manual control mode.
All of this power helps this luxury sports car get up to 60 miles per hour in 5.1 seconds, with a top speed of 177 mph.
Described as a "muscular and sporty car that can be enjoyed every day," the GranTurismo is fitted with an automatic gearbox and equipped with an adaptive control system which adjusts the gear-shifting mode to the driving style and the driving conditions. It is designed with "particular attention to comfort" and enough room for four people.
Maserati's tradition of the Gran Turismo concept dates back to 1947 when the Trident Company, following its clients' demand, unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show its first Gran Turismo, the A6, designed by the great Pininfarina. It was the first Maserati road car and was produced in 58 units.
The interior is truly built with luxury in mind, and comes in an unbelievable 8 million different possible color and trim configurations. The electronically controlled front seats strike a balance between comfort and support needed for spirited driving, and are covered in Poltrona Frau leather upholstery.
The Easy Entry system powers the front seats forward to allow ample space for rear passengers to climb on board and share in the roomy and refined atmosphere.
The cabin has been handcrafted and the care taken in its construction is clear. The finish is clean but exquisitely refined, from the subtle chrome rings that surround the dashboard and steering wheel switches to the Trident logo on the headrests and the Alcantara used on the back of the gearshift paddles.
The standard Bose Surround Sound audio system further improves on-board enjoyment for those looking to take a break from cell phone discussions and city noises. The placement of the eleven speakers was studied intensively in order to adapt them to the cabin's acoustics.
Open the trunk and equal care can be seen in the luggage space that can hold up to two regular-sized golf bags or the exclusive five-piece luggage set created especially for the Maserati GranTurismo by Salvatore Ferragamo.
Pricing starts at $118,000, making the GranTurismo a rival to the BMW M6, Aston Martin Vantage, Mercedes CL-Class, and even more expensive models like the Bentley Continental.
