The 2020 Maserati Quattroporte: A Blend of Italian Luxury and Performance
The 2020 Maserati Quattroporte stands as the Italian marque’s flagship sedan, a storied blend of opulence and speed. While its only sibling in the Maserati sedan lineup is the Ghibli, the Quattroporte sets itself apart with an unmatched fusion of luxury and performance, boasting a Ferrari-sourced engine that does come with a considerable price tag. We had the chance to test drive the Quattroporte S Q4 in the GranLusso trim, a variant that offers a mix of sophistication and affordability compared to the more powerful GTS.
Exquisite Design and Features
The GranLusso trim elevates the S Q4 with silk and leather upholstery, heated and cooled seats, chrome front fascia inserts, 20-inch wheels, and gloss-black brake calipers. This combination makes for an interior where comfort and style reign supreme.
Power Under the Hood
Underneath the S Q4’s hood, you’ll discover an impressive 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. This high-tech engine dishes out 424 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the Quattroporte S Q4 leaps from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 4.8 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system typically directs 100 percent of the power to the rear wheels but intelligently shifts up to 50 percent to the front wheels if it senses a loss of grip. Additionally, a limited-slip rear differential ensures enhanced stability and control.
Size and Comparison
At nearly 207 inches in length, the Quattroporte is a substantial vehicle, comparable in size to the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, or Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Competing within such a prestigious segment, the Quattroporte holds its ground with electronically controlled adaptive dampers, Brembo brakes, and a distinctive exhaust note that contributes to a refined driving experience.
Driving Impressions
Jack Carney, Senior Editor of automotive.fyi: The Maserati Quattroporte name evokes images of exoticism and exclusivity, blending performance with luxury. However, the reality isn’t always what one might expect. On the road, the Quattroporte doesn’t garner as much attention as a Bentley, Jaguar, or Porsche might. Its design, although elegant, doesn’t scream for attention, and neither does its quiet engine in normal driving modes.
Switch to Sport mode, and the Ferrari-sourced V6 erupts into a delightful growl, best enjoyed with the windows down. Inside, the sound is muted, offering a serene driving environment. This quiet, composed demeanor complements the luxurious feel of the Quattroporte perfectly, making long motorway journeys feel significantly shorter and more comfortable.
Performance Analysis
The Quattroporte S Q4 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, though the sensation of speed is somewhat subdued from the driver’s seat. Sport mode, along with stiffer suspension settings and paddle shifters, enhances the driving involvement, making the car feel more agile and responsive. While it lacks the dramatic flair one might expect from an Italian performance car, it is undeniably fast and capable, just in a more refined manner—like a Concorde gliding effortlessly rather than a fighter jet’s aggressive maneuvering.
Byron Hurd, Associate Editor at automotive.fyi: Drawing from a brief drive in July, I found the Quattroporte S Q4 GranLusso to be a solid yet understated performer. It offers all the expected amenities of a high-end sedan but doesn’t stand out in terms of exclusivity or flair among its competitors. The back seat is one of its standout features, providing ample space and comfort, embodying the true essence of luxury for its passengers.
Conclusion
The 2020 Maserati Quattroporte S Q4 GranLusso is a marvel of engineering and design, though it does not always capture attention as its rivals might. For those who appreciate a mixture of Italian sophistication, subtle design, and reliable performance, the Quattroporte is undoubtedly a top contender. It may not provoke an adrenaline rush behind the wheel, but it excels in delivering a composed and luxurious drive. If a less conventional and more distinguished luxury car is what you seek, the Maserati Quattroporte awaits with open arms.
For the latest updates and detailed automotive reviews, follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi, or visit our website at Automotive.fyi. Should you have any tips or news to share, contact us at tips@automotive.fyi.
Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
