2018 Maserati GranTurismo

The Maserati GranTurismo is a comfortable yet sporting coupe that boasts a Ferrari-built V8, a surprisingly spacious cabin, and loads of Italian character. While some competitors offer sprightlier acceleration and more modern technology features, it's likely that GranTurismo drivers will be having too much fun behind the wheel to notice those minor deficiencies.

Overiew

From the Coliseum to the Pantheon, the Sistine Chapel to the Mona Lisa, much of the world's great art has come from Italy. With its elegant, flowing lines and classic proportions, it's clear that the GranTurismo belongs to same lineage as those masterpieces, a sculpture on wheels that would do even Michelangelo proud.

Not just a feast for the eyes, the GranTurismo also provides a rich, operatic soundtrack with its charismatic, hand-built 4.7-liter V8. The engine produces 454 horsepower along with 381 pound-feet of torque, enough to propel the big coupe from zero-to-60 mph in just under five seconds, or slightly slower than the segment norm.

The standard GranTurismo Sport features a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, while the performance-focused GranTurismo MC gets a six-speed single-clutch automated manual gearbox that is quicker but can be borderline harsh, especially in lower-speed driving. Fuel economy checks in at 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway for both models.

The GranTurimso Sport model is fitted with a "Skyhook” three-mode adjustable suspension that lets the driver prioritize either ride comfort or handling agility, which are both in ample supply no matter which setting is selected. The GranTurismo MC boasts a non-adjustable setup that provides quicker responses at the cost of increased ride firmness; alternatively, the MC can be equipped with the Sport's Skyhook system.

The GranTurismo's cabin is upholstered in supple leather that was handcrafted by Italian firm Poltrona Frau, while fine wood trim adorns the dashboard, door panel and rear areas. The level of craftsmanship and attention to detail can also be seen in the chrome rings that enhance the dashboard switches and steering wheel as well as the Alcantara sections meeting the fingertips on the back of the steering wheel shift paddles.

In the area of infotainment/navigation graphics and functionality, the GranTurismo is slightly behind the times, and it also lacks the advanced safety features offered by some competitors. On the bright side, the rear seats are actually habitable for normally sized adults, an unusual feat for a coupe.

Standard and optional features

The GranTurismo Sport comes standard with leather upholstery, genuine wood interior trim, a navigation system, heated and power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, an 11-speaker Bose AM/FM/CD/SiriusXM stereo with AUX and USB inputs, Bluetooth connectivity, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED running lights, LED taillights, and 20-inch alloy wheels.

The GranTurismo MC adds carbon fiber interior accents, an Alcantara headliner, a unique suspension, and model-specific wheels.

Options include a plethora of different interior trim choices and upholstery/stitching/piping options.

Occupant safety

All GranTurismo models are fitted with front, front side and full-length side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems.

Key competitors

Those looking for a stylish and powerful coupe that still manages to be comfortable and luxurious should also check out the Bentley Continental GT and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe.