MASERATI IN THE NEWS

Trident Doping

As if the Quattroporte was not already a dynamic car, Maserati offers an even sportier version.

Analyzing the car market, you won’t find a limousine that is sportier than the current generation of the Maserati Quattroporte – not by the sheer engine power, but by the construction concept. Remember, the sedan with the trident logo in the grille is the only four door car that combines a front-mid engine with transaxle gearbox and electro-hydraulic shifting. This limousine masqueraded car goes into bends like a Ferrari.

Not sporty enough for your favorite weekend tour? Ambitions to bring your family on the race track? Always in search of a special version for your car collection? Well, finding arguments for the 'Sport GT' is not really difficult.

First of all, let’s have some of the features lined up that differentiate the Sport GT from the ordinary Quattroporte. The wheels grew by two inches now, reaching honorable 20 inches and the brake discs are perforated like swiss cheese. Moreover, experts will identify the black chromed grille with a red accentuated trident logo, and, of course, there is a "Sport GT" writing on the B pillar. Looking to the interior, you will recognize carbon applications as well as sporty pedals and a specially formed steering wheel. The engine still provides 400 bhp but gear shifting is now quicker and the "Skyhook" suspension got a sportier setup.

Well, not to feed the hopes of the cruising fraction, the Quattroporte is still no smooth car, especially concerning the suspension. On the other hand, the brakes work like a real sports car, activating the left pedal causes optimum values for the stopping distance being dictated into the test log.

Not to forget, the Sport GT also offers a special exhaust system. But to be honest, engine sound is not different from the one provided by the normal Quattroporte, which is, of course, not frustrating at all as the V8 is not even trying to deny it’s Ferrari origin.

So, the Sport GT really tops the dynamic claim of the Quattroporte making it only a little bit less comfortable. And even more than it’s construction base, it is a driver’s car, so maybe the rear seats of a Sport GT will never be used.

Text by Enrico Falchetto
Pictures by Robert May

				Maserati Quattroporte: the 'Sport GT' adds more dynamic to the trident branded limousine.
		Carbon pattern is standard on the Sport GT, this car is equipped with the optional applications in piano lacquer. Wood trims are also available but not in the spirit of this edition.
		A special exhaust system is part of the Sport GT package.
				Distinctive features of the 'Sport GT': red bars in the trident emblems, black chromed grille, special 20 inch wheels, significant writing on the B pillar.