Maserati, the iconic Italian luxury carmaker, is poised to enhance its presence in India with, first, the launch of its second-generation GranTurismo. Scheduled for release between April and June 2024, the petrol-powered GranTurismo promises a blend of high-performance engineering and sleek design cues borrowed from the MC20 supercar.
But that's not all—Maserati is also set to introduce the all-electric Folgore variant by the end of next year, marking a significant stride into the realm of sustainable and cutting-edge automotive technology.
At the heart of the GranTurismo lies its potent powertrain. Equipped with a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, the base trim churns out an impressive 483 hp and 600 Nm of torque. This powerhouse allows the GranTurismo to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in a mere 3.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 302 km/h. For those seeking an even more exhilarating experience, the high-performance Trofeo version boasts a higher state of tune, delivering 550 hp and 650 Nm. This enhancement propels the car from 0-100 km/h in a blistering 3.5 seconds, with the top speed soaring to 320 km/h. Both variants feature all-wheel drive as standard, ensuring optimal handling and performance on the road.
Maserati has infused the new GranTurismo with design cues taken from its bigger sibling, the MC20, creating a seamless blend of sportiness and elegance. The iconic grille at the front, classic gills on the fenders and a sleek, two-door coupe silhouette make the GranTurismo truly a visual spectacle. The GranTurismo's design evolution is evident in its flowing lines, extended bonnet and low-slung stance. Notable features include a prominent (and inevitable) Maserati Trident on the nose, vents behind the grille for efficient airflow, and the iconic triple-vent layout along the sides.
The rear design sees sleeker triangular tail lamps, offering a modern touch to the classic aesthetic.
Internally, the GranTurismo represents a leap forward in terms of design and technology. The cabin boasts a digital instrument cluster, a large central touchscreen and a configurable digital screen replacing the conventional analogue watch. Touch-based controls and streamlined digital interfaces create an environment that seamlessly combines sophistication with user-friendly functionality.
The Folgore variant represents Maserati's bold step into the electric vehicle (EV) arena. Featuring a tri-motor setup, this all-electric powerhouse delivers a staggering 751 hp and a mind-numbing 1,350 Nm of torque. The heart of the Folgore is a substantial 92.5 kWh battery pack, providing an impressive range of up to 450 km on a full charge. Maserati claims the Folgore can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in a jaw-dropping 2.7 seconds, with a top speed of 325 km/h.
Distinguishing itself from its petrol-powered counterpart, the Folgore features subtle design details such as the absence of exhaust pipes, blacked-out components and dark copper-finished badging. The interior, however, remains largely identical, emphasising a seamless transition from traditional luxury to cutting-edge electric performance.
As part of its strategic expansion in India, Maserati plans to roll out the GranTurismo in the second quarter of 2024, followed by the Folgore variant between October and December of the same year. While specific pricing details are yet to be disclosed, industry experts anticipate the GranTurismo to be positioned in the ballpark of Rs 2.5 crore (ex-showroom), placing it in direct competition with the likes of the Bentley Continental GT, which commands a price upwards of Rs 3 crore (ex-showroom), offering enthusiasts a compelling alternative in the high-performance grand tourer segment.
On the electric front, the Folgore, which is entering a relatively nascent market, is set to face competition from established players like the Porsche Taycan, Audi e-tron GT and Mercedes-AMG EQS 53.
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