Times are changing fast and car makers like Maserati are now looking for more diverse means of propulsion to lead their next generation of luxury sports cars. For the stable’s venerable GranTurismo model, this means waving goodbye to the iconic naturally aspirated V8 engine hand-built by Ferrari.
As one of the last engines of its kind to exist in the segment today, Maserati wanted to ensure a proper send-off to the power unit that has driven the GranTurismo model since its official debut in 2007. This is where the GranTurismo Edizione V8 Aspirato comes in. Only 23 examples of the car will be made available across Australia and New Zealand with a price tag of A$295,000 and five heritage paint options.
Customers will be able to choose from Blu Corse, Blue Sera, Argento Auteuil, Verde Britannia and Celeste Chiaro alongside the existing Nero Carbonio and Rosso Italiano finishing options. These heritage colour schemes can be further personalised with the customer’s choice of brake caliper and alloy wheel combinations, making each Edizione V8 Aspirato truly one of a kind.
Under the bonnet resides the aforementioned 4.7-litre V8 petrol engine, which delivers 338kW of power and 520Nm of torque to the rear wheels via a six-speed ZF automatic gearbox. That’s enough to see the GranTurismo hit 0–100km/h in 4.8 seconds before topping out at 299km/h.
Most Maserati drivers will, however, be more inclined to creature comforts and premium refinement as opposed to all-out speed. The GranTurismo Edizione V8 Aspirato looks after that thanks to its four-seater coupe layout paired with Poltrona Frau leather seats, Alcantara and leather upholstery, forged aluminium surrounds and contemporary infotainment appointments such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Exterior design is also refined with a ‘sharknose’ hexagonal grille featuring lower air ducts to improve aerodynamic efficiency. GranTurismo Edizione V8 Aspirato orders are now open, with cars expected to arrive in the first quarter of 2020. Those keen can visit Maserati to register their interest.
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