The next-generation Maserati GranTurismo is behind schedule. It was originally set to debut last year sometime but, quite clearly, it didn't. An exact reason has not been given but we suspect it was a combination of pandemic-related problems and resulting changes regarding the revival plan. But the good news is that things are progressing nicely towards a full reveal, something our sources tell us will happen in the first half of this year. We remain hopeful.
In the meantime, our spy photographers have caught what's clearly a very advanced test mule for the 2023 GranTurismo. The outgoing model is a thing of beauty and we can clearly see this mildly-covered prototype is a design evolution rather than a complete revolution. No complaints there.
Looking more closely at things, notice that the lines and shapes of the front grille, air intakes, and vertical standing lights now lack any camo. Moving to the rear end, the taillights have been significantly slimmed down and moved outwards slightly to create a wraparound look. And yes, the quad exhaust pipes are back with two at each side. This makes one thing very clear: the GranTurismo isn't going fully electric just yet. That's not set to happen for another couple of years.
The car we're looking at is very likely powered by the same twin-turbo V6 found in the MC20, so expect at least 620 horsepower. An 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox is also expected to route that power to the rear wheels.
A few months ago, a spy video arrived offering us a hint of what the new generation sounds like and, as expected, we weren't disappointed. We should probably think of the 2023 GranTurismo as part of Maserati's grand internal combustion engine finale. Its lovely V8 has already been retired but that Nettuno V6 still has years of life ahead.
Not only was this engine designed for racing, but also for an electric powertrain. A plug-in hybrid setup is very likely as well. For the time being, the GranTurismo will remain a pure ICE exotic and its debut will certainly be quite the celebration.