2010 Maserati Quattroporte

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The Quattroporte starts with a 4.2-liter V8 with 400 hp and a top speed of 168 mph. The Quattroporte S and Sport GT S models share a larger 4.7-liter V8 with red cylinder heads and 430 hp in the S, 440 in the Sport GT S. Top speed inches up to 174 mph and 177 mph, respectively. All three models are rear-wheel drive with a front-mounted engine; the base and S models use an automatic 6-speed ZF transmission.

The Sport GT S has the MC-Auto package for greater control of gearshift changes. The Manual setting allows for high-performance driving with the extra-long paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel; the Auto Sport mode engages the MC Start Strategy function for even faster acceleration from a standstill.

The "drive by wire" throttle is controlled electronically, but the driver can select the Low Grip or Sport transmission settings, depending on conditions and driving style. The Low Grip button improves traction control in slick conditions, while the Sport button makes faster gear changes at higher revs, making for a more aggressive, performance- oriented driving experience. "Antidive" and "Antisquat" suspension keeps the car from rolling back and forth under acceleration and braking. The S and Sport GT S add Brembo performance brakes.

The Maserati Stability Program allows anti-lock brakes, electronic brake distribution and other systems to work together to optimize handling. The optional Skyhook system continually adjusts the suspension system for road surface variation and bumps in the road. It also adapts to the driver's style, though the Sport button can stiffen the ride at any time for a tighter, more responsive feel.

Inside, the leather-upholstered front seats are adjustable 14 ways, while the back seats can move four ways. Heating, ventilation and massage functions are available for all places. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard, along with sensors that recycle air if they detect an unpleasant odor coming in from outside. The Maserati Multimedia System uses Bose Surround Sound and a 7-inch screen to display navigation, audio information, jukebox, Bluetooth and USB contents.

The Sport GT S comes with Alcantara-upholstered seats, with TitanTex finish in the interior rather than wood. Special race-style aluminum pedals with extra grip are available for this model.
Not much has changed for the Quattroporte since its major facelift for the 2009 model year. The 4-door sedan (Quattroporte being Italian for "four-door") retains its luxurious interior appointments and powerful V8 engine for all three trim levels, base, S and Sport GT S.
A true luxury sports sedan; historic, exclusive Italian marque; elegant design by Pininfarina
In the past year, Ferrari, Porsche, Lotus and other exotic car makers have added 4-door grand tourers to their lineup. Maserati has had the Quattroporte since 2004, making it something of an expert in the field. Legendary Italian design house Pininfarina had a hand in the car's distinctive design, which sits on race-heritage underpinnings for high performance, including a Ferrari-sourced V8 engine.