The Maserati Quattroporte is the first large Italian sedan in 40 years, and the wait was worth it. A six-speed manually interactive automatic transmission with overdrive gives this four-door sedan plenty of power, accelerating from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. With a power plant from Ferrari (4.2-liter, V8 engine), the Quattroporte is able to generate 400 horsepower. And keeping that power on the road in poor weather conditions comes courtesy of Maserati's low-grip mode.

This vehicle is equally impressive just standing still. Being the first Maserati in 50 years designed by Pininfarina, its pulse-quickening aesthetic combines style and eloquence with its long hood, prominent grille, and beautiful rear-end. Luxuriating in this vehicle is not a problem despite its clear sport heritage. Front passenger seats adjust 14 ways and offer lumbar support. Rear passengers are not forgotten, as they can have a massage function along with an optional rear-seat entertainment center with TV screen.

The interior is regal and comes in several options guaranteed to please even the most demanding of tastes. Of course the finely handcrafted wood adorning the insides may be customized to your owner's preference. Rosewood is standard and complemented by leather plush enough to befit royalty. However, you may opt for mahogany, briarwood or a titanium-style finish. With a base price exceeding $95,000, it is most benevolent of Maserati to offer such an array of stylistic variations.

Indeed, Maserati has crafted a sedan fit for a king, queen, or their lucky nanny scurrying about town with little princes or princesses!

For LxM James Rothaar