2009 Maserati GranTurismo S and Quattroporte to Make Australian Debut at Sydney

Maserati has announced that the refreshed Maserati Quattroporte will be joined by its sportier sibling the GranTurismo S at the upcoming Australian International Motor Show in Sydney on October 9.

The GranTurismo S brings with it a grunty 4.7-litre V8 boasting 328kW mated to an electrically-actuated rear-mounted transaxle. It's good for a top speed of 295kph and a 0-100 sprint time of just 4.9 seconds. Most however will get as much enjoyment from simply looking at it, as from driving it - the GranTurismo is simply stunningly attractive.

The new Quattroporte has emerged from Dr Maserati's surgery sporting a new nose and a subtle butt-lift and while the results may not have completely rectified the Quattroporte's awkwardly-shaped proboscis, the end result is still far nicer to look at than the preceding model. Besides, there's inner beauty lurking under that long bonnet in the form of a 298kW 4.2-litre V8. Those seeking a more thrilling four-door can opt for the Quattroporte S and its 320kW 4.7-litre bent-eight.

The dynamic duo's simultaneous debut marks the first time that the Italian manufacturer has ever launched two models at the same time Down Under, and according to the General Manager of Maserati Australia, Edward Butler, it's a strong indicator of the brand's strength in the Australian market.

Last year Maserati managed to sell 134 cars to Australian motorists, a 25 percent increase over the previous year. This year, however, 151 cars bearing the Blue Trident have already been sold, meaning Maserati is going from strength in a market that's becoming increasingly wary of gas-guzzling cars. Are cashed-up motorists clamouring to get their fill of petrol-powered fun while there's still oil left to burn, or did the recent rise in the Luxury Car Tax spur buyers to impulse-buy themselves an Italian thoroughbred while prices were still (relatively) low?

Whatever the case may be, it's clear that Maserati's future in Australia is safe and sound. A good thing. It means we'll be able to enjoy the unbelievable beauty and incredible power of the 328kW GranTurismo S and the performance and practicality of the 298kW Quattroporte for at least a few more years.

Prices for Maserati's Australian range for 2009 will be announced at the Australian International Motor Show in October (and you can bet your pants TMR will be there to bring you the news as it happens).

DOUBLE DEBUT FOR MASERATI AT SYDNEY MOTOR SHOW

For the first time in Australia, Maserati will launch two new models at one Motor Show, when the wraps come off the new Maserati Quattroporte and the range-topping high performance Maserati GranTurismo S at the Australian International Motor Show on 9 October 2008.

"The fact that we are launching two new models at the same motor show, both of which are central to the success of Maserati, is a clear sign of progress that Maserati has made over recent years in both Australia and around the world," says Edward Butler, General Manager of Maserati Australia and New Zealand. "The Quattroporte redefined the high performance saloon and its success around the world has led other car makers to attempt their own imitations of its effortless blend of performance, style and exclusivity. The new Quattroporte will ensure that Maserati maintains its lead as the ultimate performance saloon."

"Maserati built its unique and legendary reputation on performance," explains Mr Butler, "so the launch of new, range-topping high performance Maserati is extremely significant. The new GranTurismo S provides our unique coupe with a new level of performance, on-road ability and driving excitement. It is the epitome of a Maserati."

Setting a new all-time Australian record in 2007, Maserati sales rose to 134 cars, a 25 per cent increase over the 2006 total of 107, which was a record year in its own right. Yet, in 2008, Maserati has already delivered 151 cars to new owners in Australia, making this year a new all-time record year for Maserati in Australia with five months to spare!

The new Quattroporte has a dual soul as a luxury saloon with sports-car performance and is fully responsive in all driving conditions whilst cosseting the driver in its luxurious and distinctive 'Made in Italy' interior. In its new S version, the new Quattroporte is equipped with a 4.7 litre V8 delivering a maximum power output of 430 bhp at 7,000 rpm, accelerates from 0 to 100 kmh in 5.4 seconds and has a maximum speed of 280 kmh where the law permits.

The GranTurismo S is the ultimate expression of the performance edge. Its 440 bhp V8 4.7 litre engine, electro-actuated gearbox with fast MC Shift, transaxle layout, performance exhaust and dual-cast brakes make the GranTurismo S a true ambassador for Maserati's sporting flair, with acceleration from 0 to 100 kmh in 4.9 seconds and a maximum speed of 295 kmh, the highest ever reached by a standard production Maserati.

Official prices for Maserati's latest models will be announced when they make their Australian and New Zealand debut at the Australian International Motor Show in October.