Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[2014 Maserati Quattroporte S Q4 [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2014-maserati-quattroporte-s-q4-review-first-drive-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2014-maserati-quattroporte-s-q4-review-first-drive-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/2014-maserati-quattroporte-s-q4-review-first-drive-video/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

The First Maserati To Run Full-Time On All Fours

2014 Maserati Quattroporte S Q4

About six months ago we tested the all-new 2014 Maserati Quattroporte GTS and its 523-horsepower 3.8-litre bi-turbo V8 engine, the latter being built in Maranello, Italy, by Ferrari. There were comments on both sides, mostly positive though, and we came away impressed by the sixth-generation Maserati sedan. This despite the fact that both we and you couldn't seem to get past the questionable aesthetics of the 20-inch Crono alloy wheels slapped on all of the test cars. Awkward looking they are, or is "distinctive" the word we're seeking?

For both the crucial North American market and the rest of the world, the most important version of the latest Quattroporte is bound to be the less powerful (and less expensive) bi-turbo V6 model we have just driven here in northern Italy; both rear-wheel-drive and Q4 all-wheel-drive versions. We spent nearly all day in the 404-hp 2014 Maserati Quattroporte S Q4, and found a lot that we prefer in the six-cylinder powertrain versus the champing aggression and more expensive price tag of the GTS bi-turbo V8 model. These long and lanky executive-style statements traditionally thrive on the V8 mantra, so it will be interesting to watch how Maserati's need to use stronger and more efficient V6 engines is received by its six-figure customers.

It's a cynical thing to discuss so matter of factly, but descending into five-figure pricing for these rides actually damages their sales potential. It's bizarre, but keeping every trim of the Maserati Quattroporte north of $100,000 was crucial. So, is the 2014 Maserati Quattrporte S Q4 at a projected US$108,000 base price worth it? To this stratum of clientele, apparently it is. Even the rear-wheel-drive S with this bi-turbo V6 will come in around US$102,000 when it arrives in North America in mid-2014. (Or mid-2015, as yet to be decided.)

Continue reading 2014 Maserati Quattroporte S Q4 [w/video]

2014 Maserati Quattroporte S Q4 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 10 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 maserati quattroporte2014 maserati quattroporte s q4featuredfirst driveFirstDrivemaseratimaserati quattroporte Fri, 10 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20565042/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/2014-maserati-quattroporte-s-q4-review-first-drive-video/20565042/article-detail.xml 20565042 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-maserati-quattroporte-s-q4-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-maserati-quattroporte-s-q4-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Why Italians are no longer buying supercars]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/why-italians-no-longer-buying-supercars/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/why-italians-no-longer-buying-supercars/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/why-italians-no-longer-buying-supercars/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



Italy is the wound that continues to drain blood from the financial body of Italian supercar and sports car makers. The wound was opened by the country's various financial police who decided to get serious about superyacht-owning and supercar-driving tax cheats a few years ago, by noting their registrations and checking their incomes. When it was found that a rather high percentage of exotic toy owners had claimed a rather low annual income - certain business owners were found to be declaring less income than their employees - the owners began dumping their cars and prospective buyers declined to buy.

Car and Driver has a piece on how the initiative is hitting the home market the hardest. Lamborghini sold 1,302 cars worldwide in 2010, 1,602 cars in 2011 and 2,083 cars in 2012 - an excellent surge in just two years. In Italy, however, it's all about the ebb: in 2010, the year that Italian police began scouring high rolling marinas, Lamborghini sold 96 cars in Italy, the next year it sold 72, last year it sold just 60. The declines for Maserati and Ferrari are even more pronounced.

Head over to CD for the full story and the numbers. What might be most incredible isn't the cause and effect, but where the blame is being placed. A year ago the chairman of Italy's Federauto accused the government of "terrorizing potential clients," this year Luca di Montezemolo says what's happening has created "a hostile environment for ­luxury goods." Life at the top, it ain't easy!

Click here to watch a report on Italy having one of the world's highest rates of tax evasion.

Gallery: Top 10 Supercar Reviews of 2012

2012 Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible2013 SRT Viper2012 Chevrolet Corvette ZR12013 McLaren MP4-12C Spider2014 Aston Martin Vanquish

Continue reading Why Italians are no longer buying supercars

Why Italians are no longer buying supercars originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 07 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ferrariguardia di finanzaitalian policeitalylamborghinimaseratisupercarstax evasiontaxes Tue, 07 May 2013 18:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20560985/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/why-italians-no-longer-buying-supercars/20560985/article-detail.xml 20560985 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ferrari-laferrari-geneva-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ferrari-laferrari-geneva-628.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Edo Competition pit a Ferrari FXX against a Maserati MC12 Corsa on the 'Ring]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/watch-edo-competition-pit-a-ferrari-fxx-against-a-maserati-mc12/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/watch-edo-competition-pit-a-ferrari-fxx-against-a-maserati-mc12/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/watch-edo-competition-pit-a-ferrari-fxx-against-a-maserati-mc12/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,


High-zoot supercar tour organizer Gran Turismo Events held its annual Nürburgring track day last month, and in addition to the amateur punters the gates were opened to two tuned supercars from Edo Competition: A Maserati MC12 Corsa and a Ferrari Enzo ZXX. The ZXX, in case you've forgotten, is the same love child of Edo Competition and Zahir Rana's ZR Exotics that belly flopped into the Atlantic during the 2011 Targa Newfoundland.

We get a trip around the Nordschleife with both cars during a no-doubt quick but not insane lap, on board with driver Patrick Simon in the 755-horsepower MC12 and 'Ring queen Sabine Schmitz following in the 840-hp ZXX.

That should be all the build-up you need when the action's in the video below.

Gallery: Ferrari LaFerrari






Continue reading Watch Edo Competition pit a Ferrari FXX against a Maserati MC12 Corsa on the 'Ring

Watch Edo Competition pit a Ferrari FXX against a Maserati MC12 Corsa on the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 03 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> edo competitionferrariferrari enzomaseratimaserati mc12Maserati MC12 CorsamotorsportmotorsportsNurburgringrace trackracetrackracetrack videoSabine Schmitzvideoyoutubezahir ranazr exotics Fri, 03 May 2013 20:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20557743/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/03/watch-edo-competition-pit-a-ferrari-fxx-against-a-maserati-mc12/20557743/article-detail.xml 20557743 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mc12-corsa-vs-edo-zxx-ring_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mc12-corsa-vs-edo-zxx-ring.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Maserati Ghibli snarls in Shanghai]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/2014-maserati-ghibli-shanghai-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/2014-maserati-ghibli-shanghai-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/2014-maserati-ghibli-shanghai-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Big things are happening at Maserati, where the automaker is looking to increase its sales to 50,000 units annually. In addition to the revised Quattroporte that we saw at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year, Maserati has launched the all-new Ghibli here in Shanghai - a smaller, more driver-focused model that will take on the likes of the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

At launch, the Ghibli will be offered with three six-cylinder engines, two gas and one diesel. The base engine is a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 with 330 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque, good for a 100 km/h (0-62) time of 5.6 seconds. The more powerful Ghibli S, however, comes with a twin-turbocharged version of this engine, good for 410 hp and 406 lb-ft, reducing that 0-100 km.h (0-62) time to just five seconds flat. On the diesel end, the Ghibli will offer a 3.0-litre diesel V6 with 275 hp and 443 lb-ft of twist, able to do that same 100 km/h (62-mile-per-hour) run in a still impressive 6.3 seconds. The more powerful Ghibli S will also be available with Maserati's new Q4 all-wheel-drive system, though we're told that this feature cannot be had on right-hand-drive versions.

As for what we can see here in Shanghai, the Ghibli looks pretty darn good, though that front fascia reminds us an awful lot of the BMW 3 Series. (Seriously, just picture the Bimmer with a more gaping grille opening.) Maserati will offer the Ghibli with standard 18-inch wheels, though 19s, 20s, and even 21s will be available as optional extras.

Have a look through our photo galleries above and below, and let us know what you think of the new Ghibli in the comments.

Continue reading 2014 Maserati Ghibli snarls in Shanghai

2014 Maserati Ghibli snarls in Shanghai originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 14:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 shanghai motor show2014 maserati ghiblimaseratimaserati ghiblishanghaishanghai motor show Sat, 20 Apr 2013 14:49:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20546227/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/20/2014-maserati-ghibli-shanghai-2013/20546227/article-detail.xml 20546227 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/maserati-ghibli-shanghai-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/maserati-ghibli-shanghai-628.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati Ghibli revealed ahead of Shanghai debut]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/maserati-ghibli-revealed-ahead-of-shanghai-debut/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/maserati-ghibli-revealed-ahead-of-shanghai-debut/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/maserati-ghibli-revealed-ahead-of-shanghai-debut/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



We knew it was coming, and here it is: the 2014 Maserati Ghibli. Maserati's plan of selling 50,000 cars per year by 2015 starts with the Ghibli, which will be positioned in a more volume-friendly market against the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series. The Ghibli will make its official debut later this month at the Shanghai Motor Show.

Although our first look at Maseati's newest sedan is limited to just three images, we can see that the car will have a sportier exterior design than its bigger brother, the Quattroporte, to go with an equally luxurious interior. Under its long, sleek hood, Maserati has confirmed that the Ghibli will utilize a pair of 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engines - one gas and one diesel - both mated to eight-speed automatic transmissions. A rear-wheel-drive configuration will be standard, and the Italian automaker's new Q4 all-wheel-drive system will be available.

Scroll down for the brief teaser press release, and to watch the 2014 Maserati Quattroporte sedan debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

Gallery: Maserati MC12






Continue reading Maserati Ghibli revealed ahead of Shanghai debut

Maserati Ghibli revealed ahead of Shanghai debut originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Maserati MC12 supercar - front three-quarter view, in motion

CAR reports Maserati may benefit from the introduction of Enzo-succeeding Ferrari LaFerrari (shown below). According to unnamed parties, Maserati is keen to create a successor for the MC12 (above) based on the bones of the new Ferrari.

Details are about as scarce as they come, but CAR reckons Maserati has a few options when it comes to building its own supercar. Those include using the suspension, chassis and electrical systems of the Ferrari but with a unique carbon-fibre body and without the LaFerrari's hybrid system. The new take on the MC12 could use a detuned version of the 6.3 litre V12 from the LaFerrari or stick a quad-turbo 3.8-litre V8 behind the front seats.

The latter option could see the next MC12 yield up to 900 horsepower, putting it within reach of its cousin as well as hardware like the McLaren P1. Of course, all of this - including our fanciful name in the headline - is just speculation for the time being. CAR says that if the machine makes its way to production, it would could cost well over US$1.3 million.

Click through to watch a video on the new Ferrari LaFerrari's vehicle dynamics.

Gallery: Ferrari LaFerrari: Geneva 2013







Continue reading Ferrari LaFerrari supercar to spawn Maserati LaMaserati?

Ferrari LaFerrari supercar to spawn Maserati LaMaserati? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 ferrari laferrariferrariferrari laferrarila ferrarilaferrarimaseratimaserati mc12mc12 Fri, 22 Mar 2013 10:29:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20514654/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/22/ferrari-laferrari-supercar-to-spawn-maserati-lamaserati/20514654/article-detail.xml 20514654 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/maserati-mc12-first-drive-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/maserati-mc12-first-drive-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale gets its groove, seats back]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2013-maserati-granturismo-mc-stradale-geneva-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2013-maserati-granturismo-mc-stradale-geneva-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2013-maserati-granturismo-mc-stradale-geneva-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale

The Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale was exclusively a two-seater, but here in Geneva, the big Italian coupe gets its rear thrones back. We don't know if the addition of rear passenger space will help improve sales of this special trim of the aging GT, but it's at the very least an excuse for Maserati to shine a few lights on its gorgeous two-door.

Under that rakish carbon fibre bonnet is the same Ferrari-sourced 4.7-litre V8 we've loved for years now, tuned to 460 horsepower in this application and mated to Maserati's MC Race Shift six-speed automatic transmission. Other updates for the MC Stradale include new 20-inch alloy wheels and a smattering of new materials inside the cabin.

Yes, it feels like we write about some version of the GranTurismo every time we attend the Geneva Motor Show, but this car still tickles our fancy each and every time. Scroll down for the press blast and check out the four-seater for yourself in the high-resolution gallery.

Continue reading 2013 Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale gets its groove, seats back

2013 Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale gets its groove, seats back originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradalegenevageneva 2013geneva motor showgranturismogranturismo mc stradalemaserati Wed, 06 Mar 2013 17:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20491711/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/06/2013-maserati-granturismo-mc-stradale-geneva-2013/20491711/article-detail.xml 20491711 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-maserati-granturismo-mc-stradale_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-maserati-granturismo-mc-stradale.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Maserati prep this Quattroporte for Geneva by hammering on its sheetmetal]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/maserati-quattroporte-hammer-video-geneva-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/maserati-quattroporte-hammer-video-geneva-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/maserati-quattroporte-hammer-video-geneva-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2014 Maserati Quattroporte - Geneva Motor Show - hammering sheetmetal - video screencap

There are untold amounts of set up that goes on in the days and weeks leading up to an international auto show. Of course, there are exhibits to erect, lights to hang and scripts to rehearse. There are also cars to prep. Usually the latter involves little more than removing finger prints and dusting, but in the case of Maserati the day before the Geneva Motor Show press days, the process apparently includes banging on the sheetmetal of one of your prized showcars like a crazed woodpecker.

We're not sure what caused a surface irregularity in the door skin of this 2014 Quattroporte - perhaps shipping damage - but it was interesting (and mildly painful) to watch, and hear, a show prepper attempt to repair this six-figure sedan with what looks like a jeweler's hammer, high-intensity light and soft cloth.

That'll buff right out.

Continue reading Watch Maserati prep this Quattroporte for Geneva by hammering on its sheetmetal

Watch Maserati prep this Quattroporte for Geneva by hammering on its sheetmetal originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More seats inside the Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale means the possibility of a wider audience in more ways than one. Currently only available as a two-seater (we don't get the Stradale version, we get the four-seat GranTurismo MC), the addition of back seats will allow twice as many folks inside, and add the car to the purchase lists of those who need to carry more than two souls in their race-derived, 470-horsepower luxury coupes.

Furthermore, the MC Stradale now gets a carbon fibre hood with an air intakes and extractors, 20-inch alloys and new materials inside. It will take the A-lister's spot on the Maserati stand at the Geneva Motor Show, making its world debut alongside the European debut of the new Quattroporte.

Click here to read more in the press release below.


Gallery: 2013 Maserati GranTurismo Sport

Continue reading Maserati adds rear seats to GranTurismo MC Stradale for Geneva

Maserati adds rear seats to GranTurismo MC Stradale for Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> autoshow2013genevageneva 2013geneva motor showgranturismogranturismo mc stradalemaserati Wed, 27 Feb 2013 18:27:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20481789/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/27/maserati-adds-rear-seats-to-granturismo-mc-stradale-for-geneva/20481789/article-detail.xml 20481789 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014maseratimcstradalefour-seater_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014maseratimcstradalefour-seater.jpg <![CDATA[Toronto Auto Show 2013: Auto Exotica exhibit features Canada's best supercars]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/toronto-auto-show-2013-auto-exotica-exhibit-features-canadas-b/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/toronto-auto-show-2013-auto-exotica-exhibit-features-canadas-b/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/toronto-auto-show-2013-auto-exotica-exhibit-features-canadas-b/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Always a show favourite, the Auto Exotica floor at the Toronto Auto Show 2013 features a few of the world's hottest cars from the world's most daring manufacturers. The Canadian International Auto Show CIAS was host to some interesting supercars like the: Maserati MC12 Corsa McLaren MP4-12C Spider, Ferrari F12, Aston Martin Vanquish and the Canadian debut of the 2014 Maserati Quattroporte.

Also included in this year's display are exotics from the likes of Porsche, Callaway, Lotus, Fisker and many classics including Nigel Mansell's Marlboro Ferrari. If you're heading to the 2013 Toronto Auto Show, be sure to check out the adrenalin-drenched display on the 100 level (basement) of the North building at the show (for a travel guide to the show, click here).

Click here to check out our photo gallery shot live from the Toronto Auto Show.


Gallery: 2013 Toronto Auto Show Highlights - North & South Hall

Continue reading Toronto Auto Show 2013: Auto Exotica exhibit features Canada's best supercars

Toronto Auto Show 2013: Auto Exotica exhibit features Canada's best supercars originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 CIAS2013 toronto auto showauto showauto show 2013auto showsautoshowautoshow 2013autoshow2013autoshowscar photo galleryCIASCIAS 2013toronto auto showtoronto auto show 2013toronto auto show gallerytoronto auto show photos Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20448159/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/toronto-auto-show-2013-auto-exotica-exhibit-features-canadas-b/20448159/article-detail.xml 20448159 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-toronto-auto-show-cias4594-1360862473_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-toronto-auto-show-cias4594-1360862473.jpg <![CDATA[<em>Little Red Racing Car</em> Kickstarter project a father/son affair [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/little-red-racing-car-kickstarter-project-a-father-son/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/little-red-racing-car-kickstarter-project-a-father-son/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/little-red-racing-car-kickstarter-project-a-father-son/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Tales of fathers and sons, whether told for adults or for children, never go out of style. It's appropriate then that The Little Red Racing Car, a story about a father and son finding and restoring a 1955 Maserati 300S, is such a stylish piece of work.

Author Dwight Knowlton first started working on The Little Red Racing Car when, after his son was born, he "went looking for the perfect Father/Son/Car book" and couldn't find one. Knowlton's artwork in has been influenced heavily by vintage automotive advertising and Grand Prix posters, and has a very clean, art deco vibe as a result.

Of course, TLRRC is still just a work in progress. Knowlton is hoping the Kickstarter community will help to get the ball rolling, and raise US$25,000 to the book printed and distributed. The author even has a stretch goal to have the whole shebang made into and animated film - we love big dreams. Follow on below to hear Knowlton's pitch in his own words, or jump over to his Kickstarter page to look further or buy-in.

Continue reading Little Red Racing Car Kickstarter project a father/son affair [w/video]

Little Red Racing Car Kickstarter project a father/son affair [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1955 maserati 300sdwight knowltonkickstartermaseratithe little red racing car Thu, 14 Feb 2013 07:59:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20461553/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/little-red-racing-car-kickstarter-project-a-father-son/20461553/article-detail.xml 20461553 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/little-red-racing-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/little-red-racing-car-628.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati Ghibli overtakes Levante, headed for Shanghai?]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/maserati-ghibli-overtakes-levante-headed-for-shanghai/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/maserati-ghibli-overtakes-levante-headed-for-shanghai/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/13/maserati-ghibli-overtakes-levante-headed-for-shanghai/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Maserati Ghibli prototype cold-weather testing

While earlier reports indicated that the next Maserati product out of the gate would be the Levante SUV, Motor Trend is now reporting that the Audi A7-shaped Ghibli has cut in line. Word is that we may see the new Ghibli as early as the Shanghai Motor Show in April.

Citing unnamed sources, MT predicts that the minds at Maserati now see a more pressing need to fight off the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the BMW 5 Series than to go after luxury utes. However, if our spy shots of Ghibli prototypes are anything to go on, it's also likely that the sub-Quattroporte Maser won't be a traditional sedan. The car above's long nose, low roof and brief, sloping rear deck all bring to mind Audi's lovely A7, Meaning the Ghibli may fall into the always murky four-door-coupe/luxury hatchback genre.

Bi-turbocharged iterations of both a V6 and a V8 should make up the early powertrain choices for the Maserati, meaning the top-spec Ghibli should have loads of shove to match its promised good looks.

Hit the jump for a better look at our photo gallery.

Continue reading Maserati Ghibli overtakes Levante, headed for Shanghai?

Maserati Ghibli overtakes Levante, headed for Shanghai? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 maserati ghiblighiblimaseratiquattroporteshanghaishanghai 2013shanghai motor showspy shots Wed, 13 Feb 2013 18:59:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20460751/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/13/maserati-ghibli-overtakes-levante-headed-for-shanghai/20460751/article-detail.xml 20460751 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/maserati-ghibli-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/maserati-ghibli-628.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat to build Maserati SUV in Turin, Alfa Romeo version possible]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/04/fiat-to-build-maserati-suv-in-turin-alfa-romeo-version-possible/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/04/fiat-to-build-maserati-suv-in-turin-alfa-romeo-version-possible/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/04/fiat-to-build-maserati-suv-in-turin-alfa-romeo-version-possible/#comments Filed under: ,

Maserati Kubang Concept live at 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

Automotive News Europe reports Fiat will build its new Maserati Levante SUV in Turin, Italy. CEO Sergio Marchionne confirmed in an interview that the luxury utility will be manufactured at Fiat's flagship plant, and that the Mirafiori facility may build an Alfa Romeo SUV variant as well. Reports as far back as 2011 originally suggested the Italian-branded luxury SUV would be built in Detroit alongside its Jeep Grand Cherokee relative. Marchionne now says Fiat will construct both Maserati and Alfa Romeo vehicles in Turin, but has thus far declined to comment on exactly which models will be manufactured at the plant.

Right now, the factory is only running a few days per month, but Fiat has committed to investing around US$1.63 billion to relaunch Maserati, and a fair slice of those funds could go toward revamping the Turin plant. Marchionne also made it clear that the Chrysler dealer network in the US will play a large role in the future success of the Alfa Romeo brand.

Set to bow in 2014 and hit dealers by 2015, the Maserati Levante is expected to take cues from the brand's 2011 Kubang concept shown above. As the Trident's first SUV, the Levante is expected to compete directly with the Porsche Cayenne and Land Rover Range Rover.

Continue reading Fiat to build Maserati SUV in Turin, Alfa Romeo version possible

Fiat to build Maserati SUV in Turin, Alfa Romeo version possible originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> alfa romeoalfa romeo suvkubanglevantemaseratimaserati suvsergio marchionneturin Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:46:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20448197/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/04/fiat-to-build-maserati-suv-in-turin-alfa-romeo-version-possible/20448197/article-detail.xml 20448197 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/maseratikubang19-1315926298_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/maseratikubang19-1315926298.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati and Lamborghini pull out of Iran]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/maserati-and-lamborghini-pull-out-of-iran/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/maserati-and-lamborghini-pull-out-of-iran/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/maserati-and-lamborghini-pull-out-of-iran/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2014 Maserati Quattroporte - front three-quarter view

Daimler is out, Toyota is out, Porsche is out, Hyundai, PSA Peugeot-Citroën are out and when it comes to selling cars in Iran, now Maserati and Lamborghini are out, too. The definitive pullouts of those last two automakers are said to be reactions to a press conference held by a group called United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI). The group highlights businesses that sell in both the US market and Iran, and works to get those businesses to choose one market or the other.

UANI said it had sent letters to Maserati and Lamborghini about their dealings in Iran, but that the letters went unanswered. Mark Wallace, head of UANI and a former US ambassador to the United Nations, held a press conference in October of last year that referenced the two companies. Apparently Lamborghini contacted Wallace just after the press conference and told him "they were out, they weren't doing any business in Iran anymore."

Discussions with Maserati then took place, and the Italian automaker said it had been out of Iran ever since Fiat announced it was leaving the country in May 2011. UANI said Maserati had been in talks with an Iranian distributor, however, and that distributor was continuing to use the Maserati name. The carmaker has since cut all ties with Iranian interests and has prevented its name from being used, adding that its new models will not be able to be sold there because they won't pass regulations the country's regulations.

Gallery: 2014 Maserati Quattroporte: Detroit





Continue reading Maserati and Lamborghini pull out of Iran

Maserati and Lamborghini pull out of Iran originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fiatiranlamborghinimark wallacemaseratiuaniunited against nuclear iranunited nations Wed, 16 Jan 2013 08:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20430057/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/16/maserati-and-lamborghini-pull-out-of-iran/20430057/article-detail.xml 20430057 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/maseratiiran_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/maseratiiran.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Quattroporte kicks off 50th anniversary for Maserati with new V6, AWD]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/2014-maserati- quattroporte-detroit-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/2014-maserati- quattroporte-detroit-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/2014-maserati- quattroporte-detroit-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



It's not that often that we get to talk about a new Maserati model, but that's all about to change. The Italian automaker is using the 2014 Quattroporte to begin a lineup expansion that will soon grow to no fewer than five models. Entering its sixth generation, the Quattroporte has been completely redesigned, and is also adding a new V6 engine and all-wheel drive.

Pictures of the car were released last year and we've even had the chance to drive the car in France already, but we finally got to see both the 410-horsepower V6 and 530-hp V8 versions of the car at its debut at the Detroit Auto Show. The new Quattroporte is 100-per cent Maserati with its svelte-ye-aggressive styling, but it adds more of a mainstream look to better compete with the growing number of high-end luxury sedans. Not all of the Autoblog staff consider it an improvement, but it doesn't stray too far from the Italian styling of the last model.

The interior has also been brought up to date with modern infotainment technology and improved luxury courtesy of a longer wheelbase bringing more space to rear-seat occupants. While the V8 we drove had a bench rear seat and oddly retro-modern wheels, the car on display had more conventional wheels and the two-passenger rear seat bucket seat layout.

Both engines used in the new Quattroporte are proprietary to Maserati and produced by Ferrari in Maranello. A new all-wheel-drive V6 model, called the Q4, will now be offered, and it will allow a 50:50 torque split between the front and rear axles. Scroll down for the official press release for the new Quattroporte.

Continue reading 2014 Quattroporte kicks off 50th anniversary for Maserati with new V6, AWD

2014 Quattroporte kicks off 50th anniversary for Maserati with new V6, AWD originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 detroit auto show2014 maserati quattroportedetroitdetroit 2013maseratiquattroporte Tue, 15 Jan 2013 09:03:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20429290/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/15/2014-maserati- quattroporte-detroit-2013/20429290/article-detail.xml 20429290 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-maserati-quattroporte-detroit-2013---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2014-maserati-quattroporte-detroit-2013---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Maserati Quattroporte goes on a night run]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/02/2014-maserati-quattroporte-goes-on-a-night-run/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/02/2014-maserati-quattroporte-goes-on-a-night-run/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/01/02/2014-maserati-quattroporte-goes-on-a-night-run/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2014 Maserati Quattroporte development video screencap

While it was in development, Maserati rolled out its 2014 Quattroporte for a little testing, but rather than slather the big luxury sedan in gobs of camouflage to protect from it prying eyes, engineers used the cover of darkness to conceal the vehicle's design. Then they made a video about their cleverness and posted it on the Internet. The team spent some time whipping around the Balocco Proving Ground with chief test driver Fabrizio Galvan at the controls to evaluate the sedan's new drivetrain, noise levels and handling in the real world.

We got our hands on the 2014 Quattroporte last month for a first drive ahead of the vehicle's North American debut at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. You can read our impressions here, but first, take a look at the video below for a new glimpse at the machine's development.

Continue reading 2014 Maserati Quattroporte goes on a night run

2014 Maserati Quattroporte goes on a night run originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 02 Jan 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 detroit auto show2014 maserati quattroportebaloccomaseratiquattroportevideo Wed, 02 Jan 2013 19:58:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20415305/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/02/2014-maserati-quattroporte-goes-on-a-night-run/20415305/article-detail.xml 20415305 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/quattroporte-teaser-video-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/quattroporte-teaser-video-628.jpg <![CDATA[Leak confirms Maserati product plans for five new models]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/leak-confirms-maserati-product-plans-five-new-models/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/leak-confirms-maserati-product-plans-five-new-models/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/leak-confirms-maserati-product-plans-five-new-models/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



It isn't a secret that Maserati is planning a product expansion in an attempt sell 50,000 units annually by 2015, but the automaker hasn't officially announced just how it plans to do so. Yes, we've seen (and driven) the 2014 Quattroporte, checked out spy shots for the smaller Ghibli sedan and Maserati even confirmed the Levante name for its SUV, but a leaked document reported by CarScoop could shed some light on how the Italian automaker intends on carrying out its rapid growth.

According to the image, the new Ghibli and Levante models will considerably lower the entry price point for the Maserati brand with the sedan having a price range from around $72,000 up to just over the $100,000 mark, with the SUV starting at close to $80,000 and topping out at almost $200,000. It also looks like the GranTurismo and GranCabrio will be getting redesigned in the near future at which point the new Gran Sport model will be added to the mix - otherwise known as the which often-rumoured sports car with which Maserati will do battle with the Porsche 911.

Continue reading Leak confirms Maserati product plans for five new models

Leak confirms Maserati product plans for five new models originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ghibligran sportgrancabriogranturismolevantemaseratiquattroporte Fri, 28 Dec 2012 17:44:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20413128/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/28/leak-confirms-maserati-product-plans-five-new-models/20413128/article-detail.xml 20413128 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/future-maserati-plans-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/future-maserati-plans-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Maserati Ghibli prototype spied for the first time]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/23/2014-maserati-ghibli-prototype-spied-for-the-first-time/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/23/2014-maserati-ghibli-prototype-spied-for-the-first-time/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/23/2014-maserati-ghibli-prototype-spied-for-the-first-time/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Looking to better compete with mainstream luxury automakers, Maserati has already announced its plans for expanding its model lineup. Now, these spy shots give us our first look at a new, smaller sedan that resurrects the Maserati Ghibli nameplate. Seen for the first time as a prototype rather than a Quattroporte-based test-mule, this is the closest-to-production view of the upcoming Ghibli thus far.

Aside from its name, we don't know much about the 2014 Ghibli, but we do hear that this Maserati, like the upcoming Maserati Levante SUV, will have a direct lineage to a Chrysler product. While the Levante will be based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, it sounds like the Ghibli could use the Chrysler 300 as its starting point. This means that the standard version of the car could get Chrysler's 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 - rumoured to produce around 400 horsepower - paired with the latest eight-speed automatic transmission; sportier trim levels would almost certainly get a V8 from Ferrari rather than using the 300C's Hemi.

As for some of the details apparent in the spy photos, we can obviously see the size difference between these two cars when comparing previous spy shots of the newly released 2014 Quattroporte, which we drove last week. We also see that this car gets some performance-oriented, cross-drilled brake rotors, and based on the depth of the snow in which this car was caught testing, we also wouldn't rule out the use of all-wheel-drive on the Ghibli.

Continue reading 2014 Maserati Ghibli prototype spied for the first time

2014 Maserati Ghibli prototype spied for the first time originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 23 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 maserati ghiblighiblimaseratispy photosspy shots Sun, 23 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20405042/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/23/2014-maserati-ghibli-prototype-spied-for-the-first-time/20405042/article-detail.xml 20405042 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/maserati-ghibli-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/maserati-ghibli-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati planning second smaller SUV?]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/22/maserati-planning-second-smaller-suv/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/22/maserati-planning-second-smaller-suv/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/22/maserati-planning-second-smaller-suv/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Maserati's product plans have taken a few wild turns, but as we get closer to production dates for the long-awaited offerings things are getting a wee bit clearer. The the sixth-generation Maserati Quattroporte is here, and a quick recap according to a report in Car and Driver has the smaller Ghibli sedan on Chrysler's LX/LY platform next, then the next-generation GranTurismo coupe and cabrio on a Maserati platform, then the Kubang SUV concept (pictured) that, for production, will become the larger Jeep-Cherokee-based Levante SUV.

All of which gets us to 2015. That same year, according to the report, the Levante will get a brother: a smaller SUV or crossover, perhaps sized like the Kubang concept, to challenge the Audi Q5 and the Porsche Macan. It is predicted to use the Compact US Wide platform, built for front-wheel and all-wheel-drive vehicles, that supports the Dodge Dart and 2014 Alfa Romeo Giulia. In addition to giving the premium brand a competitor in what is a very popular segment, a Maserati move slightly downmarket can help fill a gap while Fiat brass figures out what to do with Lancia.

Continue reading Maserati planning second smaller SUV?

Maserati planning second smaller SUV? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 22 Dec 2012 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fiatkubanglevantemaseratimaserati suv Sat, 22 Dec 2012 17:59:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20405281/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/22/maserati-planning-second-smaller-suv/20405281/article-detail.xml 20405281 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/kubangconceptf-furt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/kubangconceptf-furt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Maserati Quattroporte [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-first-drive-review-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-first-drive-review-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-first-drive-review-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Vastly Upgraded Italian Speed Sedan Kicks Off Brand Renaissance

2014 Maserati Quattroporte

The sixth-generation Maserati Quattroporte is big - and not just because it's 165 millimetres (6.5 inches) longer than before with a wheelbase that stretches 109 mm (4.3 inches) beyond its predecessor. The new Quattroporte is big also because it's a huge deal both for its segment and for Maserati. Just as FoMoCo is finally chucking a cool $1 billion at Lincoln MoCo, so too is Fiat, which is investing 1.2 billion euros (CAD$1.54 billion) in Maserati's future hopes of achieving the larger success we all have wished for it. And after a thorough drive over the intensely challenging mountain roads of France's Mediterranean coast, we can't deny that there's finally reason to put some faith in this long overdue investment.

The much-applauded outgoing Quattroporte enjoyed a reputation of being among the very fastest executive sedans of its day, all while delivering the sportiest overall ride and handling, even in base trims. Yet there was constant corporate-level dysfunction that kept all Maseratis from getting important upgrades or receiving much-needed investment support. So, the outgoing Quattroporte has up until now sort of languished nobly, largely resting on the laurels it earned when it launched way back in 2003.

With continued proper mother company support and ambitious marketing initiatives finally on the table, this all-new 2014 Maserati Quattroporte looks fit to help lead "Il Tridente" through some huge changes as the company prepares to celebrate its centenary in December of 2014. First off, from its current annual total sales figure of 6,000 or so units, Maserati is confident that its global sales will reach 50,000+ per annum by the end of 2015. Try not to scoff at that too much. Rather cheer when the lights hit the new Quattroporte this January at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, knowing that new products are on the way to help the FourDoor and the Gran Turismo in their quest for this ambitious volume target.

Continue reading 2014 Maserati Quattroporte [w/video]

2014 Maserati Quattroporte [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 maserati quattroportefeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivemaseratiquattroporte Wed, 12 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20401201/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-first-drive-review-video/20401201/article-detail.xml 20401201 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2014-maserati-quattroporte-fd.jpg -1 2