The S model Quattroporte takes the previous model and kicks it in the rear end. Already so gorgeous to begin with, the Quattroporte has been gently massaged for the high rollers. At the front, horizontal grille bars have been replaced by vertical ones, which work so well you wonder why Maserati didn't do it first time around These new sinister chrome fangs match well with the growl of a massive V8 and smooth dent-less body panels.
The other noticeable front-end changes are the larger air intakes on the new bumper and larger headlights with an LED strip for the indicators. At the back, the most noticeable difference is the redesigned LED tail-lights, with a red border around a white centre. As facelifts go, it's more Botox than scalpel & surgery.
The biggest news is about power. The regular Quattroporte carries on with its 4.2 liter V8, but the S version gains the 4.7 liter 433bhp V8 that Maserati launched in the GranTurismo S coupé. The resulting performance is hugely impressive for a big car that weighs almost two tons. In spite of its weight, the S's 5.4sec 0-62mph performance is on the pace with the V8 competition.
Weight distribution between the front and rear axles is even for those track enthusiast out there. Punch the sport mode button for a more aggressive shift pattern and revs held in each gear right up to 7200rpm & firms up the electronically controlled dampers for better body control over crests and dips, as well as more composure through tighter bends and high-speed corners.
Mild tweaks to the interior like deeper more supportive front seats makes you want to turn faster around every corner. Aluminium door-pulls compliment the Italian character of pure luxury. Given that only 15,000 Quattroportes have been bought world-wide in the 5 years the current model has been on sale, the claim to exclusivity is justified. The Quattroporte S lists at $168,000 USD, and if you get a bit enthusiastic with the optional extras, you could easily top $200,000 USD.
Maserati Quattroporte S (specs)
ENGINE 4691cc, V8
POWER 433bhp at 7000rpm
TORQUE 361lb ft @ 4750rpm
TRANSMISSION Six-speed auto
FUEL 17.9mpg
CO2 365g/km
PERFORMANCE 0-62mph: 5.4sec
TOP SPEED 175mph
PRICE £85,000
RELEASE DATE October 2009
Portuguese
Spanish
French