From the Maserati headquarters in Modena, to Maranello where the twin-turbo V6 is produced to climb the hills of Emilia where we tested the first four-wheel drive Maserati with satisfaction, with a seductive outfit like that of the Quattroporte S that puts the Porsche Panamera and the others in line German

The sixth generation of Maserati Quattroporte was presented at the Detroit Motor Show, but now its range is expanding thanks to the Quattroporte S Q4 all-wheel drive, equipped with a twin-turbo V6 engine capable of delivering 410 hp, designed and developed entirely by Maserati Powertrain. This engine is manufactured in Maranello by Ferrari where the engineers have managed to drastically reduce consumption and emissions, without however renouncing to increase the horsepower and the classic thrust of the Trident engines.
Compared to the GTS version, the bodywork of the Maserati Quattroporte S Q4 does not change and shows the same muscular and taut lines that make it so elegant and gritty at the same time. The Maserati Quattroporte S Q4 is 5.26 meters long, 1.94 wide and 1.48 high but its proportions, thanks to the shape of the body, are elegant and sleek, with a huge wheelbase of 3.71 meters that guarantees space in abundance to all passengers. The load capacity has also increased compared to the previous version by as much as 30%. On the other hand, the weight has dropped by 100 kg thanks to the use of aluminum and precious alloys.

Greater comfort but also a greater perception of luxury that distinguishes the new Maserati Quattroporte S Q4, whose dashboard features a central section made up of materials of extreme quality such as wood and soft leathers. The wood can be chosen among different types, for example it can be lacquered or with a carbon effect. If we really want to find a fault with the dashboard, this could be the car’s “Start” button, positioned rather hidden behind the steering wheel. The front leather seats are heated and have 12 different positions selectable by electric adjustment and the dashboard is upholstered in elegant Poltrona Frau leather. The customer can also customize practically an infinite number of aspects, selecting different colors and materials, such as wood, leather, carbon fiber and exclusive interior upholstery.

But the most important novelty is undoubtedly the new all-wheel drive, a mechanical solution that not only improves the road holding and performance of the new Maserati Quattroporte, but also makes its driving much safer. The gearbox combined with all-wheel drive is the eight-speed automatic ZF AT8 – HP70, a technical solution that significantly increases ride comfort, with faster gear changes and lower fuel consumption when compared to the six-speed gearbox mounted on the previous generation of Maserati Quattroporte. There are 5 shift modes provided, namely: Auto Normal, Auto Sport, Manual Normal, Manual Sport and I.C.E. (Increased Control Efficiency), a mode that has been designed to minimize fuel consumption (-30%!) And ensure a relaxed driving style. The changes are very soft both by increasing the gear and downshifting it.

Once the Quattroporte S Q4 has been set in motion, and savored for a few moments the celestial roar of its engine (a perfect symphony that almost challenges the rider to press on the accelerator), there is an immediate sensation of great comfort, both at slower speeds. mild than to those decidedly sustained. The V6 engine has a thrust that takes your breath away and responds to stresses in a very prompt way, like a real supercar. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h takes place in just 4.7 seconds while the top speed is 283 km / h. Obviously in the narrowest streets of urban centers this flagship of over 5 meters struggles in the maneuvering phase, while the engine is not affected at all by the urban route and is equally fluid and elastic.

During our test drive we were amazed by the ease of driving, understanding why the Rally champion and Maserati instructor Alex Fiorio had invited us to remember that the Quattroporte responds to all the stresses, but we must remember that it is 5.26 cm long and we must find the space to make it go all in one piece! After pressing Start, we suggest the “sport” selection which enhances the sound of the 6-cylinder that surprises for its fluidity, silence and power right from the bottom thanks to a twin turbo of a true Italian sports car (not surprisingly it is made in Maranello and not in cold Stuttgart. .!) Despite the incredibly cold (6 ° degrees at the end of May are not exactly the norm) and humid day, the generous tires of our Quattroporte S Q4 quickly got up to temperature making our English colleague smile too, who never ceased to be surprised by finishes, quality and sound of the V6, making the responsibility happy