Maserati reveals sixth-generation Quattroporte ahead of Detroit debut
Maserati has taken the wraps off its all-new Quattroporte, with the luxury saloon set for a public premiere at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Maserati has officially unveiled the new, sixth-generation Quattroporte ahead of its scheduled public debut at the 2013 Detroit Motor Show. The Italian marque is repositioning its flagship saloon with a new platform, updated styling and a Ferrari-built V8 engine, as it targets growth in the luxury segment.
The new Quattroporte is built on a steel monocoque chassis, replacing the previous generation’s underpinnings. Maserati is aiming for improved dynamics and weight distribution, while keeping total weight in check. Early indications suggest the new car measures roughly 5,200mm in length, a notable increase from its predecessor, with kerb weight targeted at 1,940kg, about 50kg lighter than before.
Ferrari V8 headlines powertrain
At launch, the Quattroporte will come with a Ferrari-built 4.7-litre V8 engine, producing an estimated 453bhp. Maserati claims improvements in both fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions compared with the outgoing model. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an automatic transmission, likely an evolution of the previous ZF-supplied unit. The engine is expected to deliver both the performance and refinement buyers in this segment demand.
Maserati has not released full technical specifications or interior images ahead of the Detroit show. However, the company has confirmed that the new Quattroporte is the first step in a broader expansion strategy. The brand is preparing to introduce the smaller Ghibli saloon, aimed at the BMW 5 Series, and the Levante SUV, which will join the range in 2014 as part of Maserati’s centenary celebrations.
Positioning and future plans
With the Quattroporte moving further upmarket in size and specification, Maserati is creating space for the Ghibli below it. This two-tier saloon strategy is intended to broaden Maserati’s appeal and boost global sales. The Levante SUV, expected the following year, will target the growth in luxury crossovers. The Quattroporte remains the brand’s flagship, intended to compete with established luxury saloons from Germany and beyond.
More details, including full engine options, performance figures and pricing, are expected to be confirmed at the model’s Detroit debut. Maserati’s ambitions for the Quattroporte and its expanding range are clear: the company is aiming to establish itself as a serious contender in the global luxury market.
- Sixth-generation Quattroporte debuts ahead of Detroit 2013
- Ferrari-built V8 engine expected at launch
- Model expansion to include Ghibli saloon and Levante SUV
