Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic to Premiere in Geneva

Maserati is sticking to its dedication of introducing at least one new model at every international motor show. For Geneva 2009 the Italian luxury sports car maker is unveiling the new GranTurismo S Automatic with a ZF 6-speed shifter. Up until now the GT has been available with either a 4.2-litre mated to an automatic transmission or a 4.7-litre with an electro-actuated gearbox. The 6-speed shifter eliminates the kick-down which is experienced in manual mode for a smooth drive.

The new car will feature the 4.7-litre V8 with a power output of 440hp (323kW) at 7000rpm and maximum torque of 490Nm at 4,750rpm. It uses a wet sump for the transmission.

The car has a Skyhook suspension system that continuously adjusts the damping to improve ride comfort and 20-inch wheels with the Maserati trademark Trident design.

Occupants have the luxury of being entertained by features like the Maserati Multi Media System, an optional iPod interface and Bluetooth Wireless system.

Press Release

True to Maserati's commitment to introduce a new model at each international car show, the GranTurismo S Automatic will première at the next Geneva Auto Show. The new Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features a 4.7 V8 which develops 440hp (323kW) at 7000rpm. The maximum torque is 490Nm at 4,750rpm.

The major novelty is the combination of the automatic transmission with the most powerful wet sump Maserati V8 on the GranTurismo - until now offered as 4.2 l with automatic transmission and 4.7 l with an electro-actuated gearbox. Thanks to the combination of the 323kW produced by the powerful 4.7l V8 engine and the smoothness of the ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic remains consistent with the original granturismo concept while at the same time offering peak performance.

The gearshift strategy applied to the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic inherits some widely appreciated elements of the Quattroporte Sport GT S, such as the elimination of the kick-down in Manual mode.

The Skyhook suspension system featuring continuously adjustable dampers provides great driving comfort. Passive safety is further enhanced thanks to the introduction on the GranTurismo range of a new generation passenger air-bag with Low Risk Deployment functionality.

Consistent with the unmistakable design of all Maseratis, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features some marked stylistic differences which make it immediately recognisable: the new under-door mini-skirts featuring a prominent shape, which enhances the dynamism of its profile and the new 20" wheel rims with "Trident" design, which recall the strength and elegance of the car.

A further enriched equipment increases the on board pleasure for the driver and the three passengers, thanks to the Bluetooth® Wireless Technology, offered as standard, and the iPod® interface, available upon request, which complete the Maserati Multi Media System.