If you're in the market for an Italian supercar, you'll be looking at two doors. Maybe three, if the Ferrari FF is among your options. But if you want four doors, there's only one name in the business: the Maserati Quattroporte. And the Modenese automaker has just released the first photos of the latest model. Replacing the outgoing Quattroporte, the sixth-generation model is part of an aggressive expansion plan in place for Maserati that will also include the smaller Ghibli sedan and the Kubang sport-ute, as well as a potential new sportscar.

Maserati hasn't revealed much in the way of technical details to accompany this initial batch of photos, but the new Quattroporte is expected to offer all-wheel drive for the first time. A new range of engines (including the V8 pictured) will, like the current model's powerplant, be built by Ferrari in Maranello, and offer increases in both output and efficiency. The design, as expected, borrows some elements from the GranTurismo coupe and convertible, particularly at the front end with its sharper grille and headlights. Anyone who's familiar with the form of the current Quattroporte, however, should feel right at home with the new model's overall shape.

Signature styling details like the portal vents on the front fenders and the triangular C-pillar have also made the jump from the outgoing QP to the incoming model. And of course the interior looks suitably plush in the grandest of Italian style, with the finest leather and wood trim and a four-seat configuration that features a center console in the rear as well. Expect more details and photos to arrive before Maserati unveils the new Quattroporte to the public at the Detroit Auto Show in January.