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
