The Trident marquee has retained its stature as Maserati has evolved in style, technology, and performance. The Bolognese Fountain of Neptune inspired the logo. The Trident also symbolizes strength and vigour. Perfectly suited, it truly underlines exclusivity of Maserati cars, which are masterpieces of elegance and luxury, with sports car performance.
Globally recognized as a symbol of motoring excellence, Maserati prides itself on its long and glorious heritage. Maserati`s history predominantly revolves around launching iconic road cars and glorious sporting achievements. The GT S we reviewed is race-bred engineering in a luxury sedan.
When Maserati presented the first Quattroporte (four door in Italian) at the 1963 Turin Motor Show, it was not only launched the fastest four-seater car in the world, but also introduced a whole new category in the marketplace: the luxury sports saloon. A sedan powered by a Maserati racing engine made the Quattroporte the fastest sedan in its time. Fast forward 50 years, and even today amidst fierce competition, GT S doesn’t shy away from daring to be different, and remains as exclusive as ever.
Design
Maserati has sported a distinctive yet elegant radiator grille. The origins of the grille could be associated with its racing pedigree, and has eventually evolved into a strong design element. The GT S grille remains one of the most striking elements proudly wearing the Trident. Viewed closely, GT S’ design language is a fine amalgamation of clean lines and sinuous surfaces – keeping with the signature Maserati look. The trademark triple portholes on the fenders are unmistakable Quattroporte features. GT S is essentially a long car of massive proportions with long swooping lines upholding Maserati’s undeniable presence. Trapezoidal quad exhaust tips visually assert GT S’ performance intent. GT S is for owners with sporting disposition.
Interiors
Swathed in high quality premium Italian leather, fine wood accents and dash of brushed aluminum inserts makes GT S an eclectic mix that not only is visually appealing, but also feels opulent to touch. Maserati has lavished the interiors with a 15 speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium surround system for an immersive sound experience. The 10 inch touchscreen infotainment unit could feel a bit out of place for the otherwise luxe interiors.
Driving Dynamics
GT S is powered by a Ferrari derived twin turbocharged 530 HP 3.8L V8 turning out 524lb-ft (710 Nm) of torque laid down by a rear wheel drive (RWD). A ZF 8 speed automatic transmission serves the ponies at the flex of your right foot. ICE (Increased Comfort and Economy) mode could be the best bet for chauffeur driven owners, Sport mode remains our favourite in making a statement with added aural drama. The metamorphosis from a sedate luxury sedan to bustling beauty is quick, complemented by the V8’s visceral induction howl, and baritone burble from quad exhausts. Handling becomes focused in matching the sporty character. As rightfully expected, the ZF transmission holds onto the gears longer, up shifts later, and downshifts earlier to keep the V8 on boil and ready to obey in an urgent manner. While 1900 kg kerb weight is on the higher side, Sport mode does a splendid job of transforming the car into a much more involving drive.
The leather wrapped, weighty steering provides ample feedback working with the massive 20 inch Pirelli PZeros but could feel slightly tiresome at times, and some more assist would have been welcome. Straight-line acceleration numbers itself are impressive with 0-100 kmph dispatched in 4.7 seconds; however, it’s the handling that belies its size, especially, with sporty suspension setup. The 3.8 litre V8 is capable of propelling the GT S to a top speed in excess of 300 kmph.
Verdict
Spending a couple of days driving the Italian beauty around, the rarity of this design masterpiece is starkly evident. While more loaded German counterparts get drowned in the sea of quotidian designs, Maserati`s flair invites repetitive glances marveling over its curvaceous lines. It’s not every day that you come across subjects of visual craftsmanship on four wheels that arrest your attention, and make you drool.
