Maserati GranSport Going Front-Engined, 4C Sharing Plan Killed: Report
Maserati's so-called GranSport coupe will be a different beast to what fans have been expecting, according to reports out of the UK this week. Details on the new model have never been firm, but rumours in 2012 pointed to a mid-engined coupe tha
Maserati's so-called GranSport coupe will be a different beast to what fans have been expecting, according to reports out of the UK this week.
Details on the new model have never been firm, but rumours in 2012 pointed to a mid-engined coupe that would share its platform with Alfa Romeo's 4C.
Now, a new report with Car magazine suggests that management at Maserati and owner Fiat have determined that the necessary engineering changes would be too expensive.
Early plans reportedly called for powerful V6 and V8 engine options for the GranSport, rather than the small 180kW 1.75 litre mill that will debut with the 4C.
Installing the more powerful engines in the 4C would require extensive changes to the platform and powertrains, allowing for the larger dimensions and added weight.
Rather than dropping the bigger engines, Maserati is now expected to use a different platform, moving to a front-engined layout with a 2+2 seating configuration.
The source of the new platform is unclear, although it is possible Maserati will use a shortened version of the next GranTurismo's platform - likely to come from the Quattroporte and Ghibli. Ferrari's next California could also be a donor option.
The GranSport will reportedly debut in coupe form in 2016, followed by a convertible version.
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