**Some may wonder why Maserati is replacing its auto-clutch manual transmission with a six-speed automatic transmission. Only after customer complaints on the jerkiness of the Quattroporte did Maserati decided to replace its manu-matic with an automatic in 2007. It was just a matter of time before it did the same to the GranTurimso. ** The new Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features a 4.7 V8 engine which develops 433 hp at 7000 rpm. The maximum torque is 361 lbs.-ft. at 4.750 rpm. Thanks to the combination of the 440 HP produced by the powerful 4.7-liter V-8 engine and the smoothness of the ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic stresses the original Granturismo concept while at the same time offering peak performance. The Skyhook suspension system featuring continuously adjustable dampers provides great driving comfort. Passive safety is further enhanced thanks to the introduction on the GranTurismo range of a new generation of passenger air-bag with Low Risk Deployment functionality. Consistently with the unmistakable design of all Maseratis, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features some discreet yet marked stylistic changes which make it immediately recognizable: the new under-door mini-skirts featuring a prominent shape, which enhances the dynamism of its profile and the new 20″ wheel rims with the brand new “Trident” design featuring spokes that distinctly reflect the Trident shape to create a mix of strength and elegance. A further enriched equipment increases the on board pleasure for the driver and the passengers, thanks to the Bluetooth® Technology, offered as standard, and the Ipod® interface, available upon request, which complete the Maserati Multi Media System.

The new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S sets yet another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury sedan segment of the automotive market . Conceived and developed as “a real driving machine in the guise of a luxury sedan “, the Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati’s sportiness in the Quattroporte range. The technical changes to the new Quattroporte Sport GT S in respect to the Quattroporte S concern four areas: – the mapping of the V8 4.7 litre engine, with power increased to 323kW; – the gearshift management software, with new features designed to increase driving enjoyment; – the front and rear suspension system featuring single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height; – the sports exhaust controlled by pneumatic valves for a deep, throaty and captivating sound. The sportier and more aggressive look is evident also in virtue of the interior’s and exterior’s stylistic choices: – the new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red accents, typical of the sportier versions of Maserati models; – the new headlights, in metallic titanium finish; – the side and rear “shadow line”, which includes black finishing around the doors, body-colored door handles and black twin oval exhaust pipes, – the new M-design seats with perforated Alcantara® and leather upholstery; – the standard trim in Titantex, a “titanium colored” composite material.

The MC Sport Line customization program focuses on the racing vocation of the Maserati, fresh from its latest international triumph in the FIA GT championship with the duo Bertolini-Bartels in the land of Juan Manuel Fangio. Modena – December 3, 2008. Maserati has developed a special series of new options named “MC Sport Line”, which makes its worldwide debut at the Bologna Motor Show, with new contents that add to Maserati’s already extensive range of personalized features on offer. The MC Sport Line is designed to enhance the sporty DNA of Maserati vehicles for those customers who like to display their passion for racing through a dynamic look and a choice of technical solutions that increase the driving fun without compromises. The name “MC Sport Line” sums up the experience acquired on the track by the Maserati Corse department, whose contribution to the design of the functional components has been invaluable. The world of motor racing also inspired Maserati’s designers when it came to styling, hence the extensive use of carbon fiber, very popular among racing enthusiasts thanks to its direct connection with racing competitions. The GranTurismo S, the ultimate expression of Maserati performance on roads, was the model chosen to present to the public the first proposals of the “MC Sport Line” catalogue, which will be extended in the GranTurismo range and then cover the entire Maserati line-up during the course of 2009. From early 2009, GranTurismo S customers will not only be able to enhance the sporty look of their vehicle’s exterior and interior – but even offer mechanical solutions. Aerodynamics can be modified thanks to the addition of front and rear carbon-fiber spoilers, which benefit from track tests conducted on the GranTurismo MC Concept; the new aerodynamics not only optimizes the vertical load but gives the car a very distinctive appearance, as do the side skirts with central panel finished in matt black, adding a dynamic edge to the side view. The sporty look of the exterior can be completed with the mirror housing and door handles, also made from carbon fiber. The same dark shade is reflected in the glossy black 20″ wheel rims that match the dark line of the exterior perfectly. The carbon fiber door sill bearing the words “MC Sport Line” tells you that you are entering a different environment, in which carbon fiber characterizes the door panels, dashboard and central tunnel. The steering wheel rim is also made from carbon fiber, as are the control stalks for the electro-actuated transmission and the body of the instrument panel, dashboard and door panels, featuring carbon molding. Looking at the central tunnel, carbon fiber dominates the entire section, acting as a backdrop to enhance the brilliance of the chrome. The “MC” pedal block complete with kickplate to the left is machined from a solid aluminium piece. Under the “skin”, the suspension has been stiffened thanks to new, stiffer springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bars; the new suspension set-up is synchronized with a specific Maserati Stability Program software, allowing the driver more freedom. The car is now 10 mm lower than the GranTurismo S, resulting in a performance on the road of the GranTurismo S that is absolutely uncompromising in terms of handling and driving enjoyment. All the features listed are available either as part of the customization package, following the indications of Maserati designers; or individually, to cater for the personal tastes of each customer.

The A4 with Quattro is a bit of a surprise in the Audi line up. First off, it comes in four variations. The introductory model is your choice of either a sedan or station wagon. Audi refers to the wagon version as an “Avant”. Power comes from a 2.0 litre direct injected and turbocharged gasoline engine. At the upper end, the sedan and Avant models come with a 3.2 litre direct injected V-6.