Overview & Reviews

Shoppers in the market for a $100,000-plus performance coupe understandably have high expectations. Fortunately for them, every car in this rarefied segment offers ample power, responsive handling, upscale surroundings and a unique character. But there are always those who seek a bit more -- more exclusivity, more presence, more panache. For these particularly discerning buyers, the Maserati GranTurismo is, quite literally, a tailor-made solution.

Resurrecting both the spirit and the nameplate of the original GranTurismo A6 road car of the late 1940s, Maserati's all-new 2+2 grand touring coupe replaces the discontinued Coupe and Spyder. Constructed on a shortened Quattroporte chassis, the GranTurismo is longer and heavier than both its predecessors and many of its rivals. As such, it's not as quick as less expensive competitors from BMW and Jaguar, despite featuring a sonorous 405-horsepower V8. Nor does it possess the cutting-edge electronic wizardry of its high-tech rivals.

But logical considerations about numbers and features aren't what the Maserati GranTurismo is all about. In the best Italian tradition, the emphasis here is on striking beauty, hand-crafted elegance and soulful sounds and sensations. For some, superior speed and technology isn't as appealing as that distinctive Italian character, which the GranTurismo has in spades. Buyers of this persuasion will gladly sacrifice cutting-edge power and technology in return for the GranTurismo's uniquely engaging personality.

Current Maserati GranTurismo

The Maserati GranTurismo is a four-passenger luxury performance coupe available in two trim levels. The base model is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that sends a robust 405 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. A conventional six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles is the only transmission available. Standard features include alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, an electronically adjustable suspension, adaptive bi-xenon headlamps, power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a navigation system and a Bose surround-sound stereo.

The GranTurismo S model gets a 4.7-liter V8 that pumps out 433 hp and 361 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automated manual transmission is standard, providing rapid shifts during aggressive driving but herky-jerky performance around town. The S also includes 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned (non-adjustable) suspension, a sport exhaust, Alcantara interior trim, digital tachometer and trim-specific styling cues. Maserati estimates 0-60-mph sprints of 5.1 seconds from the base car and 4.8 seconds from the S.

Inside the GranTurismo's large and inviting four-place cabin, the Maserati leaves its European rivals behind with a usefully proportioned rear-seat area, artfully rendered design touches and hand-stitched Italian leather everywhere you look. The interior can be custom-tailored in a choice of 10 colors with even more shades of stitching; a handful of different headliner and carpeting treatments; and numerous wood, lacquer or metal trim options. There are more personalization possibilities outside, where the GranTurismo's stunningly sculpted, Pininfarina-designed body is available in 19 different finishes and a half-dozen wheel treatments. With such a vast array of possible combinations, exclusivity is practically guaranteed.

On the road, the Maserati GranTurismo may not match the ultimate swiftness of some of its competitors, but its V8 delivers a resonant bark and enough high-rpm power to keep pace with all but the fastest automobiles in all the land. Weighing in at over 2 tons, this elegant 2+2 coupe trades ultimate cornering capability for a satisfying combination of near-sports car performance and long-legged touring comfort. The steering is precise, with responsiveness that belies the car's ample dimensions. Due to its grand touring nature, the absence of a traditional manual transmission isn't much of a problem -- the GranTurismo's competition is similarly limited, and the operation of both transmissions' manual modes is exemplary.

The Maserati GranTurismo may not be the quickest, best equipped or top-value choice in its segment, but that's hardly the point. It's a drop-dead-gorgeous GT that does everything well, and it goes about its business with an air of exclusivity and exuberance that few cars at any price point can match. For discriminating and well-heeled buyers looking for something a little different, that's worth more than all the hard numbers and logical considerations in the world.

Used Maserati GranTurismo Models

The Maserati GranTurismo was introduced for 2008 in base form only. The GranTurismo S dawned the following year.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 13.00

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  Loving my car - 2008 Maserati GranTurismo
  By Matzorati - March 13 - 8:50 am

  I love my Gran Turismo. I havent even driven my Rangerover since I bought it. I have put 20,000 miles on it in 17 months. I love everything EXCEPT that the 20 rims leave so little rubber that I get blow outs often. I purchased the insurance, but that doesnt get you where you are going. After my third blow out late at night in a not so wonderful location I purchased the inflatable spare kit from the dealer. It takes up about 1/t the trunk and cost over $2000. So my advice is no larger rims - otherwise the car is a complete and wonderful driving experience!

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  What a Machine! - 2008 Maserati GranTurismo
  By mrh - October 8 - 4:40 pm

  I love this new GranTurismo. For me, its got just the right blend of head turning looks and performance. I have had BMW M5, 645ci, and Porsche 911 -- while all fine automobiles, they lacked the "total package" I was looking for. I was looking real grand touring auto, something for trips to the Lake, Chicago and Kentucky. This new GranTurismo fills the bill for me. The only drawback I can find so far is the seats tend to get really hot when parked in the sun and take a while to cool off (Bourdeaux). Ventilated seats would be a great option.

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  Everyday Driver - 2008 Maserati GranTurismo
  By The Sexy Italian - February 11 - 12:50 am

  A bargain considering Pininfarina styling and Ferrari based technology with a 4yr/50,000 mile warranty. The 2+2 seating is larger than the BMW 6 series and the hand assembled interior is awesome. Of course, the engine sound is intoxicating and everyday driving is a pleasure. I enjoy this car more than my 911 and Lamborghini Gallardo.

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  Equal parts of fun and class - 2011 Maserati GranTurismo
  By the_owl - January 24 - 11:32 pm

  I normally research a new car to death before making a purchase. All it took with this car was starting the engine one time. The exhaust note negates the need for the high end stereo, the exterior lines are sensual, and the luxurious interior is comfortable with four adults. I have owned the car for two months and it is always parked front and center by parking valets, who I have seen scuffle for the chance to drive it. This car is elegant, perfect for anyone who wants the performance of an exotic without the ego of a Ferrari or Lambo. Fair warning, it will be photographed, people will mill around it, and pretty women will smile at you. Buyer beware!

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  Two cars in One - 2013 Maserati GranTurismo
  By tekman69 - August 13 - 8:07 pm

  I have driven sports cars in the 60-100K range before, and have enjoyed the speed yet didnt always enjoy the stiff suspension driving on the pot hole filled streets and highways in and around New York City. I just upped the ante and purchased a new 2013 Maserati Granturismo Sport about 1000 miles ago and it is worth every last penny and then some. This is two cars in one. A sports car with plenty of power, great handling and a sound that you never get tired of (sport on). This car is beautiful and will not get old. But the absolute best thing about this car is a push button on the dash that turns this car into the most comfortable long distance luxury tourer for the entire family of 4

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  King of its category - 2009 Maserati GranTurismo
  By Paul - January 26 - 1:23 am

  Driven BMW 645, 750, 545, Mercedes 550, Porsche Boxtser Spyder and many, many more. Rolled the 550 and Porsche immediately following a test drive of the S. Never regretted the move, the car is special and if having to respond constantly while driving what type of car this is Ill take that as cost of ownership. Wonderful ride each and every day on the road.

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  2012 GranTurismo - 2011 Maserati GranTurismo
  By maser4me - July 23 - 7:27 pm

  I recently owned a BMW M6 for 3 years and looked at several cars (Jag XK-RS), AMG-C63, Porsche 911) before buying the Maserati. Other cars are faster, but the GranTurismo is an exotic compared to the rest. The interior is better than the other cars I looked at, only the Jag comes close. As far as gadgets the Maserati does not provide all that the M6 did (Heads Up Display, multiple levels of tuning the suspension and gear box). The engine is the difference with this car, exhaust note and torque. The sport mode can be felt instantly in the tighter suspension and throttle response. The paint finish is higher quality than the rest, leather is also a notch above. Color combo is great too !