New Maserati's Secret Roof

Meanwhile, the mag's exclusive spy shots - which caught the car track testing - not only show how the canvas hood has been dropped in favour of a collapsible hard-top, but also give a tantalising glimpse of the interior. Based on a shortened version of the manufacturer's Quattroporte platform, the two-seater coup΃© cabriolet Spyder will also be joined by a fixed-head Coup΃©.

While it may seem strange to produce both versions, the space saved by removing the complex folding roof mechanism from the Coup΃© will be used for two additional rear seats. And as one of our pictures shows, there are sporty hooded dials, which will complement a sumptuously trimmed interior and stylish dashboard.

Both variants will feature a 4.5-litre V8, based on the same powerplant that will be used in the replacement for sister company Ferrari's 360 Modena. While the existing entry-level Maserati, the 390bhp 4200 GT, delivers impressive performance, the next-generation Spyder will produce in excess of 450bhp - which will make it one of the fastest drop-tops in the world. There will be a crossover period as the new Spyder and Coup΃© are introduced, but the two cars will eventually replace the existing models when they arrive in showrooms across Europe in 2006. However, to ensure the current versions don't lose their appeal before then, the company has scheduled a facelift for the current line-up, which will appear later this year.

nMeanwhile, Maserati UK has issued a recall. A faulty steering assembly has led to the callback on all Coup΃© and Spyder models sold since their launch in 2001. The problem emerged after some drivers complained of a knocking noise. It stems from two out of four securing bolts not having a locking compound added when they were installed. Maserati is contacting owners.