Typically we focus our daily Top 5 lists on a cross-section of cars from different manufacturers. But we have to admit to being intrigued by the notion that an automaker with just two models could be preparing such an unprecedented expansion as Maserati is. Over the course of the next few years, the Modenese automaker is expected to launch a variety of new vehicles covering a broad array of segments and body-styles, ranging from nimble sportscars to big crossovers. Here's a rundown of what to expect.
The first on Maserati's list of new products has already been revealed. That'd be the new Quattroporte, but while the veil has already been lifted, you can bet this will be just the start. There will be versions with V6 and V8 power, in rear- and all-wheel drive, in standard and extended wheelbases and more. The outgoing fifth-generation Quattroporte bred S, Sport GT, Sport GT S and Executive GT models as well, and it'd be a safe bet to expect a slew of different versions of the new sixth-gen Quattroporte to follow down the pipeline over the course of this model's lifespan.
If the new Quattroporte seems bigger than the last one, that's because it is. Maserati has enlarged its flagship sedan to better tackle the likes of the BMW 7 Series and Jaguar XJ, and beneath it will slot the new Ghibli, expected to have a more rakish four-door coupe body-style than the more conventional Quattroporte sedan. Expect the same twin-turbo V6 and V8 engines to feature here, as well as a potential diesel option, driving the rear wheels or all four. (If you live in the UK, Japan or other such markets, don't expect an all-wheel-drive model as the drivetrain reportedly interferes with the right-hand steering setup.)
Another potential windfall for Maserati will be the new Levante. Previewed by the Kubang concept, the Levante is being developed on the Jeep Grand Cherokee's platform, only with more Italian curves and that same array of Maserati engines powering the Quattroporte and Ghibli. It will be the first crossover from Maserati and a direct competitor to the Porsche Cayenne, which itself is slated to get some stiff new competition from the likes of Lamborghini, Bentley, Spyker and even Aston Martin– all of which are developing high-end luxury performance crossovers of their own.
Possibly the most exciting Maserati prospect stems from its sister company Alfa Romeo. Like the 8C Competizione, the 4C (which we've crudely re-tinted blue) will be built by Maserati. But their joint CEO has gone on record saying he hopes to spin a Maserati version off it as well. Tipped to be called GranSport, the Trident marque's version would likely swap out the 4C's four-cylinder turbo engine for either that V6 or V8, and likely grow a little in size as a result, but the increase in power would be well worth it. The carbon chassis and dual-clutch transmission would likely carry over with only minimal changes as necessary.
When all's said and done, Maserati will also need to replace the aging GranTurismo. The coupe has been on the market since 2007, and has undergone a number of upgrades along the way, leading all the way to the MC Stradale pictured here. But there's only so far Modena will be able to stretch its lifespan before the GranTurismo will need a successor. Earlier reports indicated the GT could breed something more performance-oriented. Whether this new model would exist in parallel to the existing GT or replace it remains to be seen, but you can bet those new engines will find their way into the next coupe as well.
