Search Car Reviews



See all makes

Maserati Quattroporte

All good things come to those who wait – but try telling that to impatient Maserati Quattroporte customers!

By Ross Pinnock

January 2007

  • Rating:
The Trident’s flagship saloon has been on sale since 2004, yet the long-awaited automatic version will hit showrooms only in the next few weeks.

Due to restricted UK availability, the striking omission to the line-up hasn’t really damaged sales – but it’s compromised the saloon’s luxury car credentials. Until now, a semi-automatic gearbox has been the only option, but the self-shift mode has been too jerky to cut it against the best competitors.

So, does the new ZF automatic transmission do the trick? Put simply, yes! Well judged and smooth changes make the Quattroporte a fine boulevard cruiser, yet the auto box reacts quickly when you kick down. And while the new set-up has made a small difference to weight distribution, the handling is still impressive for such a big car, so enthusiastic drivers won’t be disappointed.

A taller sixth gear also improves fuel economy, although 19.2mpg is nothing to write home about. However, that’s not likely to worry the handful of buyers willing to pay the £77,000 list price.

The Quattroporte still can’t match its best-in-class rivals’ overall abilities, but the stunning looks and Ita-lian pedigree ensure it’s not hard to be seduced by the big saloon. It’s easy to understand those buyers who are willing to let their heart rule their head.

Tell us about your car in our Driver Power survey.

For an alternative review of the latest Maserati Quattroporte visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

0 Comment

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

More MASERATI QUATTROPORTE articles


Related Index Pages

- Advertisement -

Pictures

Sponsored Results

Find Used Cars

Find your Maserati Quattroporte with our used car search.

Find Used Cars

FIRST OPINION

    The gorgeous Quattroporte finally gets the kind of transmission its rivals all take for granted. The smooth-shifting and responsive automatic gearbox is the perfect choice for the large saloon, delivering relaxed and refined performance. However, while the Maserati trumps the competition for style, with only a single petrol engine in the line-up and no diesel powerplant at all, it remains a car mainly for wealthy connoisseurs and enthusiasts.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Price: £77,000
    Engine: 4.2-litre V8
    Power: 400bhp
    0-62mph: 5.6 seconds
    Top speed: 167mph
    Transmission: Six-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive
    Economy: 19.2mpg
    CO2: 345g/km
    Standard equipment: Sat-nav, leather trim, alloy wheels, climate control, alarm/immobiliser, ESP
    On sale: 14 February
     
    - Advertisement -