maserati – ForceGT.com https://www.forcegt.com Car News, Car Reviews, Video Reviews, Tuning and much more. Wed, 27 Nov 2019 09:48:50 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.3.17 Spied: Is Maserati testing a GranTurismo replacement? https://www.forcegt.com/news/spied-is-maserati-testing-a-granturismo-replacement/ Wed, 27 Nov 2019 09:48:50 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=95155 It isn’t a secret that Maserati is developing a new sports car to replace the GranTurismo, which has recently ended production. And thanks to spy photographers we now have a first look of what the Italian manufacturer is cooking. Caught sneakily testing at night on the streets of Modena in Italy near the company’s global …

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It isn’t a secret that Maserati is developing a new sports car to replace the GranTurismo, which has recently ended production. And thanks to spy photographers we now have a first look of what the Italian manufacturer is cooking.

Caught sneakily testing at night on the streets of Modena in Italy near the company’s global headquarter, the fully camouflaged prototype reveals little but it sure has the shape of a supercar. This means the GranTurismo could be elevated to the supercar realm in its next generation model.

Looking like a widened version of the Alfa Romeo 4C, the Maserati prototype sports huge side intakes behind the rear doors which suggest that it is mid-engined. There is also a hint of Maserati Alfieri in its cues.

While powertrain details are scarce at this stage, it is reported that Maserati’s next flagship sports car will be a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) motivated by a V6 engine and electric motor combo that will be made in-house rather than sourced from Ferrari. It’s rumored to go from 0 to 100km/h in under 3 seconds with a top speed of over 300km/h, which will make it the fastest model in Maserati history.

Source: Clicccar

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Seven examples of the Maserati Levante Vulcano headed to Oz https://www.forcegt.com/news/seven-examples-of-the-maserati-levante-vulcano-headed-to-oz/ Mon, 18 Mar 2019 07:34:01 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=89760 A new limited-run version of the Maserati Levante, dubbed the Vulcano, is set to head Down Under to join the local range, although just seven are set to be available.  Priced at $184,990 before on-road costs, just 150 examples of the Levante Vulcano will be produced worldwide, which is based on the GranSport model but …

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A new limited-run version of the Maserati Levante, dubbed the Vulcano, is set to head Down Under to join the local range, although just seven are set to be available. 

Priced at $184,990 before on-road costs, just 150 examples of the Levante Vulcano will be produced worldwide, which is based on the GranSport model but sets itself apart by having had the whole catalogue thrown at it.

Externally, it’s set apart most notably by its matte Grigio Lava paintwork, 21-inch matte-finished ‘Helios’ alloy wheels, and standard fitment of the Nerissimo Collection trim package – adding smoked taillights, black chrome for the front grille and badging, black window surrounds, burnished exhaust tips, and body-coloured door handles.

On the inside, there’s the choice of red or black Pieno Fiore leather upholstery with contrast stitching; heated and ventilated front seats with electric adjustment and memory; high-gloss carbon-fibre trim throughout the cabin, including on the steering wheel and for the paddle shifters; and “One of 150” badging on the centre console.

Furthermore, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive LED headlights, soft-close doors, and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system are also fitted as standard.

Under the skin, it remains the same as the GranSport, meaning there’s still a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 churning out 257kW and 500Nm driving all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

2019 Maserati Levante pricing

Levante Petrol $125,000
Diesel $139,990
Levante GranLusso/GranSport Petrol $159,990
Diesel
Levante S Petrol $179,990
Levante Vulcano Petrol $184,990
Levante S GranLusso/GranSport Petrol $189,990

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Maserati Levante GTS slated for 2020 Aussie launch https://www.forcegt.com/news/maserati-levante-gts-slated-for-2020-aussie-launch/ Mon, 06 Aug 2018 10:52:26 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=83579 A 404kW Ferrari-powered version of Maserati’s first SUV – the Levante GTS – will be heading Down Under, the company has confirmed, although it’ll be over a year’s wait to get your hands on one.  While a V8-powered version of the Levante – the Trofeo – was first shown back in March of this year …

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A 404kW Ferrari-powered version of Maserati’s first SUV – the Levante GTS – will be heading Down Under, the company has confirmed, although it’ll be over a year’s wait to get your hands on one. 

While a V8-powered version of the Levante – the Trofeo – was first shown back in March of this year at the New York International Auto Show, it won’t be until the tail-end of 2019 that bent-eight Levantes make the trip to Australia, just in time for the 2020 model year.

Powered by a detuned version of the Trofeo’s Ferrari-developed twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre V8 producing 404kW and 730Nm, it will be capable of sending the Levante GTS to 100km/h from a standstill in 4.2 seconds, while charging on to a top speed of 292km/h.

Backing the powerhouse of an engine will be an eight-speed automatic from ZF, while power will be channeled to all four wheels through Maserati’s Q4 all-wheel drive system.

In terms of styling, the GTS is set apart from cooking models with front and rear bumpers more closely resembling those of the Trofeo, along with massive 22-inch wheels to complete the sporty look.

There are changes on the inside too, albeit minor ones, with revised infotainment and a 14-speaker surround sound system as standard.

With the launch of the hottest Levante to hit Australian shores yet still well over a year away, pricing and full specifications for the GTS are yet to be announced. Until then, the V6-powered Levante S will continue on as the current range-topper.

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V8-powered Maserati Levante Trofeo bows in at New York https://www.forcegt.com/news/v8-powered-maserati-levante-trofeo-bows-new-york/ Fri, 30 Mar 2018 00:39:43 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=79835 Maserati has taken the wraps of the first V8-equipped Levante at the New York International Auto Show. Described as the ultimate Maserati of SUVs, the Levante Trofeo is capable of blasting from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds before hitting a top end of over 300km/h. The SUV’s 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 is said to be the most …

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Maserati has taken the wraps of the first V8-equipped Levante at the New York International Auto Show. Described as the ultimate Maserati of SUVs, the Levante Trofeo is capable of blasting from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds before hitting a top end of over 300km/h.

The SUV’s 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 is said to be the most powerful engine ever fitted to a Maserati and has been engineered to mate perfectly with the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System. The Ferrari-assembled petrol engine punches out 440kW at 6,250rpm and 730Nm of torque between 2,250-5,000rpm.

To work with the new powerplant, the fastest Levante ever has been tuned to handle the higher power output without compromising comfort.

“It’s proof that when you play with the elements you end up in a storm”, says Maserati CEO Tim Kuniskis.

“In the case of Trofeo, the engineers and designers in Modena knew that the driveline parameters were more than able to cope with additional power and they also knew that Maserati had access to the finest engines on earth. So, they were up to the challenge of making the finest luxury SUV also one of the fastest.”

In terms of styling, the Trofeo sports a restyle front end that is mainly focused on the lower front fascia and the rear bumper. It rolls on a set of 22-inch forged aluminium “Orione” wheels – the largest ever fitted on a Maserati – and offered in both polished and matte finishes.

The side air intakes in the lower fascia feature a new, more aggressive design, defined by two aerodynamic wings that give a sense of further stability, visually “pushing” the weight of the car’s nose towards the massive front wheels. And to help improve the airflow distribution, Trofeo is outfitted with carbon fibre side bezel blades and a carbon fibre splitter.

The rear end also looks wider and more muscular with a sharper carbon fibre horizontal element and body-colour lower extractor that embrace the oval quad exhaust tips.

In front, the Levante Trofeo has Full Matrix LED headlights, a front grille with double vertical bars in a piano black finish and lower honeycomb mesh fascia, as well as body colour door handles, oval exhaust tips in a dark finish and performance painted brake calipers in red, blue, black, silver or yellow. And to cap it off, specific “Saetta” Trofeo logos adorn the iconic c-pillars of the coupé styled SUV.

Specific details, like the lower splitter, the blade side bezels in the front air intakes, the side skirt inserts and the rear extractor are made of ultralight, high-gloss carbon fibre, giving the Levante Trofeo a polished racing look. Even the bonnet is new, featuring two aggressive vents for better cylinder head cooling. And under the bonnet, the engine cover is also made of high-gloss carbon fibre featuring a V8 inscription and the iconic Trident logo, while cylinder heads and intake manifolds are painted red.

Inside, the sculpted sport seats feature a premium full-grain “Pieno Fiore” natural leather available in black, red and tan, all with contrast stitching and “Trofeo” logo stitched on the headrests. Maserati says the “Pieno Fiore” is like no other leather used in the automotive industry for its natural, soft feel and for the unique character it develops throughout the years.

A new matte carbon fibre trim and paddle shifters, specific instrument cluster graphics, floor mats with metal Trofeo badges and a Maserati clock with a unique dial elegantly underline the sporty character of the V8 Levante, which is outfitted with a standard 1,280-watt, 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium surround sound audio system.

As an introduction to its upcoming new model, Maserati is showcasing a limited Levante Trofeo launch edition at the Javits Center in New York. The show car is in the special matte Grigio Lava paint with matte finished 22-inch wheels and red brake calipers. This limited series Trofeo is exclusively intended for a small number of Maserati customers in the U.S. and Canada.

The Levante Trofeo launch edition will be available in eight unique exterior colours including: 22-inch forged aluminium wheels with three-season performance tyres or new 21-inch wheels with all-season tyres, in a gloss finish and dark details, like black window surround trim (DLO) and fog light rings, as well as Black Chrome Maserati badges, Trofeo “Saetta” logos, side air vents and boot accent.

The Trofeo launch edition interior features natural “Pieno Fiore” leather sport seats available in black, tan or red with contrast stitching. Black leather with blue or yellow stitching is exclusive to the launch edition and all feature the new matte carbon fibre wave interior trim. A serialized badge integrated on the centre console featuring the customer’s name, has also been added to underline the unique character of the Levante Trofeo launch edition.

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Updated 2018 Maserati GranTurismo launched https://www.forcegt.com/news/updated-2018-maserati-granturismo-launched/ Mon, 19 Feb 2018 10:53:30 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=78814 The 2018 Maserati GranTurismo has arrived in Australia with a host of refinements and improvements. Streamlined for 2018, the GranTurismo range are now offered with two well-defined variants, the Sport and MC. Updates to the exterior include a new front bumper featuring a larger, hexagonal grille with redesigned air ducts. The central splitter is the element that …

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The 2018 Maserati GranTurismo has arrived in Australia with a host of refinements and improvements. Streamlined for 2018, the GranTurismo range are now offered with two well-defined variants, the Sport and MC.

Updates to the exterior include a new front bumper featuring a larger, hexagonal grille with redesigned air ducts. The central splitter is the element that most clearly distinguishes the two models and the track-focused GranTurismo MC boasts an even more pronounced design, giving greater emphasis to the motor racing pedigree. The new front bumper and redesigned air splitter, meanwhile, reduce dynamic drag from 0.33 to 0.32.

GranTurismo MC is equipped with a carbon-fibre bonnet in the body colour as standard. The bonnet also features downforce-optimising air-vents. Additionally, there are vertical air vents in the front wings, deep functional side skirts, titanium brake calipers (black in the Sport) and 20” Trofeo Silver forged wheels, now 10% stronger and lighter. A pronounced rear lip spoiler is another dynamic highlight.

The headlights for 2018 maintain the same profile and LED/Bi-Xenon functionality, but feature discreet, internal restyling. This includes reshaped LED Daytime Running Lights, grooved housing in the Xenon lamp areas and the Maserati inscription in low relief. Additionally, the MC version’s headlights feature a darker finish.

While the sleek body of the GranTurismo remains untouched, the rear bumper has been updated a neater, more cohesive design. The central diffuser is specific to each version. The emphasis is on elegance with the GranTurismo Sport, with the oval exhaust outlets appearing at the bumper’s edges. The GranTurismo MC is decisively sportier, with round outlets coming through the central, transparent diffuser. The exhaust system of the MC version is lighter and has a flat that opens in Sport mode for a sportier exhaust note.

The MY18 GranTurismo is fitted with new, lightweight, fourth-generation Pirelli P Zero™ tyres. These contribute to a reduction in unsprung weight plus better suspension performance and tyre grip.

The interior of the GranTurismo offers improved comfort thanks to its four individual Poltrona Frau leather seats with integrated headrests. For 2018, the dashboard features a more sculptured design in the passenger area, complemented by stitched leather finishes.

The 2018 Maserati GranTurismo Sport is fitted as standard with Maserati Centennial Pack  which boasts Poltrona Frau leather upholstery with strip design in contrast colour on front and rear seats, central/side, front/rear armrests, trident logo stitched on head restraints in the same color of strip design; seat backrest cover and seat frame in carbon fibre.

In contrast and befitting its image, the Maserati GranTurismo MC has a Poltrona Frau  leather/drilled Alcantara upholstery interior which extends to the sports steering wheel, instrument cluster, central armrest, door panels armrest/handles, central dashboard area, tunnel gear pod.

Like before, power comes from the naturally aspirated V8 engine. Hand-assembled by Ferrari in Maranello and weighs only 175kg, the 4.7-litre V8 features a wet sump and – exclusive to Maserati – a cross-plane crankshaft which promises an ultra sharp throttle response and free-revving characteristics. It produces 338kW @ 7000rpm and 520Nm @ 4750rpm, sent to the rear wheels via a ZF six-speed automatic gearbox.

The MC – for Maserati Corse – replaces the previous MC Stradale as the range’s harder edge model with bespoke suspension tune and five selectable driving mode.

“The Ghibli and Levante may have transformed the availability and broadened the ability of Maserati’s range, but these new models owe their Maserati soul to the GranTurismo,” says Glen Sealey, Chief Operating Officer of Maserati Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. “Those new models sound, look and perform they way they do because the GranTurismo set, and continues to set, the benchmark for Maserati. It is, and remains, the heart and soul of what it means to be a Maserati.”

2018 Maserati GranTurismo technical specification

  GRANTURISMO SPORT GRANTURISMO MC
Engine layout Petrol 90V8 naturally aspirated
Displacement (cc) 4,691
Max. power (kW / bhp @ rpm) 338 / 460 @ 7,000
Peak torque (Nm @ rpm) 520 @ 4,750
Fuel consumption l/100km 14.3
CO2 (g/km) 331
0-100 kmh (sec) 4.8 4.7
Top speed (kmh) 299 301
Gearbox Six-speed ZF Automatic (MC Auto Shift)
Transmission RWD, Limited Slip differential
Suspension, front Double wishbone
Sport Skyhook dampers
Double wishbone, Sport
Suspension, rear Double wishbone
Sport Skyhook dampers
Double wishbone, Sport
Length/width/height (mm) 4,910/1,915/1,353 4,920/1,915/1,353
Wheelbase (mm) 2,942
2018  Maserati GranTurismo price (excl. on-roads)      
GranTurismo Sport MY18 4.7 litre 338 kW V8 Six speed automatic $295,000
GranTurismo MC MY18 4.7 litre 338 kW V8 Six speed automatic $345,000

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2018 Maserati Quattroporte enhanced with new engines and tech https://www.forcegt.com/news/2018-maserati-quattroporte-enhanced-new-engines-tech/ Tue, 23 Jan 2018 10:57:08 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=78278 Maserati’s flagship, the Quattroporte has been further enhanced for 2018 with more performance and technology. The Quattroporte S version is now powered by a new version of the Ferrari made Twin Turbo V6 engine which benefits from a power and torque boost to 321 kW and the torque peak, which is now delivered from 2,250 …

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Maserati’s flagship, the Quattroporte has been further enhanced for 2018 with more performance and technology.

The Quattroporte S version is now powered by a new version of the Ferrari made Twin Turbo V6 engine which benefits from a power and torque boost to 321 kW and the torque peak, which is now delivered from 2,250 to 4,000 rpm, rising to 580 Nm. This enables the Quattroporte S to deliver a zero to 100 kmh time of 5.0 seconds and, where the law permits, extend its top speed to 288 km/h, while offering a commendable 9.3 litres/100 km on the official combined test cycle.

Externally the Quattroporte retains its elegant Italian styling but with new Adaptive full LED headlights. The only other exterior change affects the GranSport version which now gains as standard the gloss black grille to differentiate it from other versions of the Quattroporte and highlight its performance orientated role in the Quattroporte range.

Opening and closing the doors of the 2018 Quattroporte reveals another change for 2018: Soft Close doors. Silently and efficiently, the Quattroporte will now close its own doors the final few millimeters of movement.

The introduction of Electric Power Steering (EPS) is another first for Maserati, replacing the previous hydraulic system to better support the driving modes and enables the newly-introduced active functions of the Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS).

An expanded ADAS package is available as an option in the new Quattroporte. In addition to the existing ADAS, it includes active functions like Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, as well as Traffic Sign Recognition. This allows Maserati to offer Level 2 driving automation technology, in line with the top competitors in the high-end segment. A Surround View Camera compliments the reversing camera which has dynamic guidance lines on the screen.

For 2018 the Quattroporte adopts Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC), a new function using Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) software that brings aerospace technology to public roads.

By preventing – instead of simply correcting – a loss of car control, IVC, which has been developed in collaboration with Bosch, uses a feed-forward controller that predicts driving situations in advance and adapts the engine speed and brakes accordingly. It’s claimed that IVC intervenes more smoothly and with less noise than a traditional ESP, ensures better car balance and traction at the limits of the car’s dynamics and employs intelligent torque vectoring to optimise lateral dynamics in a natural way even when ESP is off.

According to Maserati, in dynamic test manoeuvres, IVC has demonstrated higher drive-through speed (for example, slalom and lane change) and improved racetrack lap times.

Subtly restyled last year, the exterior of the Quattroporte uses a bumper design with matte black profile at the front and the matte black extractor at the rear. The front grille, a typical Maserati feature, is inspired by the Maserati Alfieri concept car and has already featured on the Maserati Levante.

It’s more defined shape introduces new vertical chrome elements that contrast with the depth of the shark nose effect. Other distinguishing details of the Quattroporte are the matte black side skirts and the exterior mirrors, which have been slightly restyled to incorporate new ADAS technical features.

An electrically adjustable Air Shutter is fitted behind the front grille between the air vents and the engine’s radiator. The Air Shutter provides optimal control of the engine’s temperature and, together with the optimization of the new front and rear bumpers, air conveyor and flat bottom, improves the aerodynamic drag of the car by 10 per cent, contributing also in fuel consumption reduction of about three per cent while driving on the highway.

GranLusso and GranSport

Maserati offers its clientele the choice of two unique trim options that emphasize the two key pillars of the brand’s DNA: GranLusso and GranSport

The GranLusso and GranSport are offered in Australia with a choice of three drivetrains, starting with the 202kW/600Nm Twin Turbo Diesel V6 as well as the new enhanced 321kW/580Nm Twin Turbo V6 petrol and the range topping GTS, with its 390kW/650Nm Twin Turbo V8 petrol engine.

GranLusso and GranSport are immediately recognisable thanks to their distinct exterior design and unique interiors.

GranLusso and GranSport specifications

GranSport GranLusso
  • 21” Titano rims
  • 20” Mercurio rims
  • Red brake calipers
  • Black brake calipers
  • Black Piano trim
  • Zegna Edition interiors
  • Stainless steel sports pedals
  • Radica wood trim
  • Sport steering wheel
  • Gloss black exterior finish
  • Wood trim steering wheel/gear knob in coloured leather
  • 12-way sports seats
  • Powered rear and side sunshades
  • Dual cast braking system
  • Heated rear seats
  • Alcantara headlining
  • Four-zone air conditioning
  • Specific sports front/rear bumper
  • Black Gloss Front Grille
  • Front seat ventilation
  • Alcantara headlining
  • Rear door keyless entry system (GTS only)
  • Bowers and Wilkins sound system (GTS only)

2018 Maserati Quattroporte pricing (excluding on-roads)

Maserati Quattroporte    
Quattroporte Turbo Diesel MY18 3.0 litre 202 kW V6 Turbo Diesel Eight speed automatic $209,990
Quattroporte MY18 3.0 litre 257 kW V6 Eight speed automatic $214,990
Quattroporte GranLusso MY18 3.0 litre 257 kW V6 Eight speed automatic $239,990
Quattroporte GranSport MY18 3.0 litre 257 kW V6 Eight speed automatic $239,990
Quattroporte S MY18 3.0 litre 321 kW V6 Eight speed automatic $239,000
Quattroporte S GranLusso MY18 3.0 litre 321 kW V6 Eight speed automatic $274,990
Quattroporte S GranSport MY18 3.0 litre 321 kW V6 Eight speed automatic $274,990
Quattroporte GTS GranLusso MY18 3.8 litre 390 kW V8 Eight speed automatic $345,990
Quattroporte GTS GranSport MY18 3.8 litre 390 kW V8 Eight speed automatic $345,990
2018 QUATTROPORTE – THE ENGINES
QUATTROPORTE TURBO DIESEL QUATTROPORTE QUATTROPORTE S QUATTROPORTE GTS
Layout Turbo Diesel 60V6 Petrol 60V6, twin-turbo – direct injection GDI Petrol 90V8, twin-turbo – direct injection GDI
Displacement (cc) 2,987 2,979 3,799
Max. Power (kW/hp @ rpm) 202/275 @ 4,000 257/350 @ 5,500 321/430 @ 5,500 390/530 @ 6,800
Max. Torque (Nm/rpm) 600 @ 2,000 – 2,600 500 @ 1,750 – 4,500 580 @2,250 – 4000 650 @ 2,000 – 4,000
Consumption NEDC (l/100 km) 6.2 9.1 9.6 10.7
CO2 Emissions Combined 163 212 223 250
0-100 kmh (sec) 6.4 5.5 5.0 4.7
Top Speed (kmh) 252 270 288 310
100-0 kmh (m) 35.5 35.5 35.5 34.0
Gearbox 8-speed automatic ZF AT8 – HP70
Transmission RWD with Limited Slip Differential
Suspension Front Double Wishbone, Skyhook shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Suspension Rear Multi Link, Skyhook shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Length/width with mirrors/height (mm) 5,262 / 2,128 / 1,481
Wheelbase (mm) 3,171

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Maserati adds twin-turbo V6 Levante S to Australian line up https://www.forcegt.com/news/maserati-adds-twin-turbo-v6-levante-s-australian-line/ Wed, 06 Dec 2017 10:31:11 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=77456 Maserati’s 321kW twin-turbo Levante S has launched in Australia, joining the Levante Turbo Diesel which was launched early this year. Powered by a Ferrari-built twin turbo V6 engine, the all-wheel drive Levante S is the new performance powerhouse that tops the Levante family. This engine, which boasts 321kw and 580 Nm of torque delivers its …

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Maserati’s 321kW twin-turbo Levante S has launched in Australia, joining the Levante Turbo Diesel which was launched early this year.

Powered by a Ferrari-built twin turbo V6 engine, the all-wheel drive Levante S is the new performance powerhouse that tops the Levante family. This engine, which boasts 321kw and 580 Nm of torque delivers its “sports car-rivaling performance” with sound that is said to be clearly redolent of all Maseratis, as it crushes the dash to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and blasts on to a top speed of 264 km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 10.9L/100km on the combined cycle, while CO2 emissions is a claimed 253 g/km.

All versions of the Levante are fitted with the same eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and standard mechanical limited-slip differential (LSD).

The Levante S features a set of Brembo 6-piston aluminium monobloc calipers working on 380 mm drilled discs at the front, while aluminium 42 mm floating calipers with 330 mm x 22 mm ventilated drilled discs are fitted at the rear.

“When the Maserati Levante arrived in Australia early this year it provided a uniquely capable car, on and off the road, one that blended Italian style, performance and handcrafted interiors with the ability to go into the bush, climb sand dunes or simply provide a level of flexibility not seen before in a Maserati,” says Glen Sealey, Chief Operating Office of Maserati Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

“With the Maserati Levante S, the introduction of the GranSport and GranLusso versions and the significant improvements across the range, further hone and refine these abilities, add, in the case of the Levante S, a new level of performance, without losing any of the capabilities that have enabled the Levante to take Maserati to unprecedented sales levels in Australia and around the world.”

The MY18 Levante made its world premiere at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor show with a new range strategy and an array of hi-tech features, including Electric Power Steering and the addition of new active functions to the existing driving assistance systems.

For 2018, the Levante range gains advanced safety features including Electric Power Steering enabling active ADAS, Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition and features such as the 360 degree camera that were previously optional are now standard.

The MY18 Levante has adopted Electric Power Steering in place of hydraulic power steering. EPS improves the car’s handling and comfort, better supports the driving modes, and enables the newly- introduced active ADAS functions. Last but not least, EPS retains the razor-sharp steering feel expected of any Maserati.

The petrol-engined Levante also heralds range-wide improvements to the range for 2018 and the launch of GranSport and GranLusso versions of the Levante.

The GranSport and GranLusso variants which, as their names suggest, provide finely honed equipment, trim and specification packages directed as sporting prowess and luxury refinement, respectively. The unique luxury in the GranLusso is exemplified by the standard Zegna silk upholstery interior, which is accessed through, new for 2018, soft closed doors.

The 2018 Maserati Levante pricing (excluding on road costs)

  Version Model

Year

Engine Gearbox RRP
Maserati Levante
Levante Turbo Diesel MY18 3.0 litre 202 kW V6 Turbo Diesel Eight speed automatic $139,990
Levante GranSport Turbo Diesel MY18 3.0 litre 202 kW V6 Turbo Diesel Eight speed automatic $159,990
Levante GranLusso Turbo Diesel MY18 3.0 litre 202 kW V6 Turbo Diesel Eight speed automatic $159,990
Levante S MY18 3.0 litre 321 kW Twin Turbo V6 Eight speed automatic $169,990
Levante S GranSport MY18 3.0 litre 321 kW Twin Turbo V6 Eight speed automatic $179,900
Levante s GranLusso MY18 3.0 litre 321 kW Twin Turbo V6 Eight speed automatic $179,990

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2018 Maserati Ghibli range expands to GranLusso and GranSport https://www.forcegt.com/news/2018-maserati-ghibli-range-expands-granlusso-gransport/ Wed, 30 Aug 2017 11:50:16 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=74634 Maserati has launched the updated 2018 Ghibli range at the 2017 Chengdu Motor Show in China with the Italian car maker’s bestselling model gaining the GranLusso and GranSport versions first seen on the Quattroporte, a range of new technology and a power boost for the Ghibli S. After four years on the market, Maserati’s sports sedan has …

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Maserati has launched the updated 2018 Ghibli range at the 2017 Chengdu Motor Show in China with the Italian car maker’s bestselling model gaining the GranLusso and GranSport versions first seen on the Quattroporte, a range of new technology and a power boost for the Ghibli S.

After four years on the market, Maserati’s sports sedan has benefited from large-scale exterior restyling, specific for each trim, to accentuate its elegance and sportiness. The meticulous design work on the front, and the changes to the rear, with revised bumpers, are said to have substantially improved aerodynamic efficiency, giving the two trims a strong identity in line with the Maserati brand positioning.

The new Ghibli GranLusso emphasizes luxury and elegance highlighted by the enhanced interior with Ermenegildo Zegna silk upholstery. The Ghibli GranSport was conceived to reflect Maserati’s sports heritage featuring a more aggressive exterior design and unique interior features.

Both GranLusso and GranSport trims are available as an upgrade of all Ghibli powertrain versions and feature adaptive full LED headlights with glare-free Matrix high-beam for even better illumination and a distinctive look.

New features introduced by Maserati in the new Ghibli include the Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC) and the Electric Power Steering (EPS). The Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC) is a new function of the Electronic Stability Program that further enhances the car’s driving dynamics, offering a more thrilling driving experience.

Electric Power Steering has replaced the hydraulic steering system to allow the integration of new Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) which include Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist. Together with Adaptive Cruise Control and Traffic Sign Recognition, these features are all available in the Driver Assistance package.

The Ferrari-built 3.0-litre V6 Twin Turbo engine fitted on Ghibli S now delivers 15kW more power and 30Nm more torque than the previous unit. With the new 430 bhp power output and 580 Nm peak torque, maximum speed is increased to 286 kmh and acceleration from 0-100 km/h has been improved by 0.1 second to as low as 4.7 seconds.

The 2018 Maserati Ghibli will arrive in Australia and New Zealand in early 2018 when full local pricing and specifications will be announced.

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Maserati marks 60th anniversary with unique GranTurismo and GranCabrio https://www.forcegt.com/new-car-price/maserati-marks-60th-anniversary-unique-granturismo-grancabrio/ Tue, 14 Mar 2017 10:20:44 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=70440 Maserati is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the launch of its first series production road car, the Maserati 3500GT, with two special edition models – the GranTurismo and GranCabrio, which have arrived in Australia just days after they were unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show. The first Maserati production road car was created in 1957 …

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Maserati is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the launch of its first series production road car, the Maserati 3500GT, with two special edition models – the GranTurismo and GranCabrio, which have arrived in Australia just days after they were unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show.

The first Maserati production road car was created in 1957 and 60 years ago, the 3500 GT made its debut at that year’s Geneva Motor Show.

The Special Edition is based on the GranTurismo and GranCabrio Sport with only 400 units produced for worldwide consumption.

Unique features include the New Rosso Italiano three-layer paint for the exteriors, reinterpreting the red of Fangio’s Maserati 250F  –  the F1 champion in 1957 – and emphasising the link with Maserati’s heritage. The wheels are MC-design 20-inch alloy wheels with a new Glossy Black finish that matches the Special Edition logo wheel centre caps.

The interiors have also been reimagined: the new interior design revolves around Poltrona Frau leather or leather/Alcantara upholstery and new interior stitching available in 4 different combinations. Other distinguishing interior details are the door sills in carbon fibre featuring the Special Edition logo and the dedicated plate on the central tunnel with a carbon fibre holder, commemorating the anniversary and the limited production run of 400 units.

Both models are powered by one of the most captivating engines of all time, the Ferrari-derived 4.7 litre 338kW normally aspirated V8 which propels the Maserati GranTurismo Special Edition to 100 km/h in 4.8 second and on to a top speed of 298 km/h.

The Maserati GranTurismo Special Edition is priced from $309,990, while the Maserati GranCabrio Special Edition starts from $349,990. Both before on-roads.

GranTurismo & GranCabrio Sport “Special Edition” 

  GranTurismo Sport Special Edition GranCabrio Sport Special Edition
Engine 338kW 4.7-litre V8 naturally aspirated Ferrari engine.
Max speed: 298 km/h
0-100 km/h: 4.8 sec.
338kW 4.7-litre V8 naturally aspirated Ferrari engine.
Max speed: 285 km/h

0-100 km/h: 5.0 sec.

Suspension & Chassis Sport Skyhook for the best sports performance combined with increased comfort.
Transmission MC Auto Shift (6-speed automatic gearbox, front transmission in unit with the engine, drive shaft, rear differential – Rear Wheel Drive). MC Auto Shift (6-speed automatic gearbox, front transmission in unit with the engine, drive shaft, rear differential – Rear Wheel Drive).
Transmission modes Five driving modes: Auto-Normal, Auto-Sport, Manual-Normal, Manual-Sport, Ice.
Braking
system
Dual Cast brake system with drilled and ventilated discs by Brembo. Each disc ID machined with 4 slots and 16 blind holes around the perimeter. The slots keep the brake pads clean, preventing loss of efficiency, and help to break up the flow of water over the surface, while the extra holes ensure uniform wear of the pads and disc to prevent the deterioration of performance over time.
Aerodynamics The hood, made entirely from carbon fibre, produces additional downforce at the front, improving steering feel and driving control at high speed.
Exterior Bodywork The extreme appearance has been reinterpreted to create an elegant sportiness. The details that adorn the lines of the car give its elegance and style a sportier feel; a natural progression, truly following Maserati tradition.
Exhaust System Oval exhaust tips with bypass flaps always open in Sport mode for a full Maserati sound experience.

Exterior Features: 

  • 3 “extra campionario” paints available (New Rosso Italiano, Bianco Birdcage, Grigio Lava) and 4 typical Maserati range colours (Nero, Bianco Eldorado, Nero Carbonio, Grigio Granito)
  • Alloy wheels: MC-design 20” alloy wheels with a new Glossy Black finish
  • Special Edition logo wheel centre caps in a new finish, matching the wheel colour
  • The distinctive features of the carbon fibre hood, which comes as standard for body colour and available as an optional extra for the carbon look, are its front central air intake and two rear air vents. The internal part of the hood is in matt carbon fibre featuring a large-scale pattern. The hood of the GranCabrio Sport has been specifically modified, starting from the coupe model, and fitted to respect the restrictive regulations concerning pedestrian impact.
  • Standard carbon fibre look (front splitter, door handles, side mirrors, rear lip spoiler). 

Interior Features:

  • New Poltrona Frau leather or leather/Alcantara upholstery and interior stitching available in 4 combinations:
    • Bianco Pregiato leather interior with Grigio Chrono insert and Grigio Chrono stitching
    • Black leather/black drilled Alcantara interior with Red stitching
    • Black leather with White stitching
    • Black leather/grey drilled Alcantara interior with Grigio Ghiaccio stitching
  • Standard carbon fibre look (centre console, paddles shift, instrument surround, carbon finish on dash and door panels trim strips)
  • Floor mats with coloured piping matching the interior details
  • Door sills in carbon fibre with Special Edition logo
  • Dedicated plate on central tunnel with carbon fibre holder, paying tribute to the anniversary and the limited 400-unit production run

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2017 Maserati Ghibli receives more tech, more power and new options https://www.forcegt.com/news/2017-maserati-ghibli-receives-more-tech-more-power-and-new-options/ https://www.forcegt.com/news/2017-maserati-ghibli-receives-more-tech-more-power-and-new-options/#respond Tue, 13 Dec 2016 07:01:13 +0000 https://www.forcegt.com/?p=67651 The MY17 Maserati Ghibli has reached Australian showrooms, delivering more technology, more power and a new range of options to boost exclusivity. While the car’s exterior remains pretty much unchanged, the MY17 Ghibli benefits from a host of interior upgrades. The central dashboard has been redesigned to accommodate a high-resolution 8.4” multi touch screen complete …

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The MY17 Maserati Ghibli has reached Australian showrooms, delivering more technology, more power and a new range of options to boost exclusivity.

While the car’s exterior remains pretty much unchanged, the MY17 Ghibli benefits from a host of interior upgrades. The central dashboard has been redesigned to accommodate a high-resolution 8.4” multi touch screen complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The lower central console has also been redesigned, and now features a rotary knob to control the volume and functions and a new phone storage compartment.

All versions of the Ghibli are now equipped with an Air Quality Sensor. This system combines an intelligent sensor and a signal analysis system which determines the external pollution levels and prevents polluted air and potentially toxic gases from entering the cabin.

Two new customisation packages designed to appeal to customers with differing tastes have been introduced – Luxury and Sport.

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The Luxury package offers two levels with a choice of extended Premium Leather or the Zegna Edition Silk and Premium Leather upholstery. The Luxury package also includes the Harmon Kardon premium sound system, which boasts 10 speakers powered by a 900 watt 12 channel amplifier designed specifically to match the audio responses of the Ghibli interior.

The Sport package reflects the legendary racing heritage of every Maserati and is immediately recognizable thanks to the new sports seats and sports steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles. The Sport Carbon package uses carbon fibre elements to further enhance the Sport package.

A new package of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is available as an option including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Brake Assist and Automated Emergency Braking. An additional Surround View Camera is available as an option in combination with the ADAS package.

In terms of engines, both petrol versions, the Ghibli and Ghibli S, feature the acclaimed, Ferrari built, Euro 6, Twin-Turbo 3.0-litre V6 powerplant paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, which features the Start&Stop function.

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The Ghibli now delivers 261kW (350 hp), 15kW (20 hp) more than the previous model year, an increased top speed of 267 km/h, and a claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of just 5.5 seconds.

The Ghibli S, with its power output of 306kW (410 hp), accelerates from 0-100 km/h in a claimed 5.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 285 km/h. The Ghibli Diesel with its Euro 6, 3.0-litre V6 engine, exclusively developed by Maserati together with VM Motori, generates 205kW (275 hp), enabling it to combine a top speed of 250 km/h and the ability to cover the dash to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds with a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.9 l/100 km and a CO2 figure of 158 grams per km.

MY17 Maserati Ghibli price (Excluding on-road costs)

  Version Model

Year

Engine Gearbox Price  
Maserati Ghibli   
  Ghibli D MY17 3.0 litre 202 kW V6 Turbo Diesel Eight speed automatic $138,990
Ghibli MY17 3.0 litre 257 kW V6 Eight speed automatic $143,990
Ghibli S MY17 3.0 litre 301 kW V6 Eight speed automatic $179,990
  OPTION PACKS        
  Sport Pack   Standard on Ghibli S, Option on Ghibli and Ghibli Turbo Diesel $13,000
  Sport Carbon Pack   Option on Ghibli, Ghibli S Ghibli Turbo Diesel TBC
  Luxury Pack   Option on Ghibli, Ghibli S Ghibli Turbo Diesel $16,000
  Luxury Zegna Pack   Option on Ghibli, Ghibli S Ghibli Turbo Diesel $20,843
  Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Pack Option on Ghibli, Ghibli S Ghibli Turbo Diesel $5,384

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