New Car 2010 Mazda3 U.S. launch scheduled for March

Mazda used last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show to debut the new 2010 Mazda3 Sedan, and then followed it with the reveal of the Hatchback model at the Bologna Motor Show just one month later. The carmaker’s North American chief Jim O'Sullivan has now revealed that the car’s U.S. launch is “on track” for March this year.

Mazda plans to launch both the Sedan and Hatchback models simultaneously but isn’t predicting sales to top last year’s levels, which peaked at 100,000 units. Canada and Mexico will see the cars arrive in dealerships next month.

“Obviously, we're going to be down with the industry,” O'Sullivan told Ward’s Auto. “We're going to be down a little bit year-on-year, but we'll see what happens.”

There is one more variant of the new Mazda3 that is yet to be revealed. The car is the high-performance Mazdaspeed (MPS) model, which is expected to make its world debut at March’s Geneva Motor Show. However, O'Sullivan didn’t reveal any details about it or when it will reach U.S. shores.

As for the standard Sedan and Hatchback models, both cars will come with two different engine options: a 148hp (110kW) 2.0L four-cylinder with 135lb-ft (183Nm) of torque and a 167hp (124kW) 2.5L unit with 168lb-ft (227Nm) of torque.

For European markets, a newly developed 2.2L turbodiesel engine will also be available. This engine, which was just launched in the Mazda6 overseas, will output 182hp (136kW) and 295lb-ft (400Nm) of torque while delivering fuel economy figures of around 42mpg (5.6L/100km).

2010 Mazda3 Sedan Wallpaper

Nissan GT-R beats the Germans in residual value as well

It’s been well documented that the Nissan GT-R has what it takes to beat its German rivals when it comes to speed, be it in a straight line or at the track. Cars like the BMW M3, Audi RS4 and Porsche 911 Turbo all fall by the wayside time and time again whenever Nissan’s new supercar is thrown into a comparison.

However, there is another important factor that sits in the mind of most car buyers that the GT-R is also a star at – residual value. Any prospective buyers of the GT-R now have another reason to brag over, with Britain’s CAP Monitor car valuation data provider predicting that the Nissan will be worth 84% of its new list price after 12 months or 10,000 miles.

In contrast, the same data agency predicts that the Porsche 911 Carrera will retain just 68% of its original value, while a BMW M3 or M5 will retain just 60%. Even the stunning Audi R8 is only expected to retain about 73% of its original sticker price, reports CAR.

It’s important to remember that these values are only a prediction and the actual results may vary significantly in different markets. Throw in factors like the GT-R gearbox being particular prone to failure after too many hard launches, and the introduction of a new Series II GT-R that does away with the original launch control system that was necessary for the blistering 3.3 second 0-60mph times, and it is easy to see that the 84% residual prediction may be a little generous.

Nissan GT-R Wallpaper

Coming off record sales of 10,014 vehicles in 2007, Bentley's performance last year didn’t go so well, with sales figures dropping by up to 20% over the course of the year. The super-luxury carmaker is being forced to make further cutbacks after earlier shift reductions and production slowing didn't reach far enough to counter decreased demand.

Bentley announced today that it would suspend production for up to seven weeks because of falling demand.

"There's a global downturn in the automotive market," company spokesman Mike Hawes told AFP. "The market continues to be in decline globally so we have decided to stop production for six or seven weeks".

In May 2008 the company also reduced production and asked more than a third of the staff at the Crewe factory to work just a three-day week. Some 1,400 employees of Bentley's 4,000 strong staff are already working the reduced shift in an effort to cut production by around 15%. For the latest production halt, which will run from March to May, workers will still be paid.

The reduction in sales, which had occurred mostly in the U.S., has been attributed to a variety of factors, including higher petrol prices and carbon taxes. Interestingly, brand image may also play a factor in Bentley’s fall in sales - people are becoming more and more reluctant to be seen in exorbitant and environmentally apathetic cars such as those built by Bentley.

Bentley is by no means the only luxury manufacturer to have suffered sluggish sales this year, with across-the-board declines in growth affecting much of the premium segment.

Bentley Continental GT Speed Wallpaper

New Car Porsche upgrades factory racing 911 GT3 RSR

Porsche has updated one of its three factory racing 911s, the GT3 RSR, for the new model year with a number of enhancements designed to ensure it continues a successful GT2 series run.

On the outside Porsche made significant changes to the bodywork to ensure the GT3 RSR is more aerodynamic and has more even downforce front and rear. The changes include new air outlet slots to allow for an optional air-conditioning system and more adjustment on the rear wing to modify the handling for the conditions. Also improved is a “weight optimised” brake system and the installation of lighter wiring harness compared to the previous model.

Underneath the hood are more improvements, with the legendary six-cylinder Porsche boxer engine getting a capacity upgrade from 3.8 to 4.0L. Due to a reduction in the size of air restrictors for the 2009 season, the new RSR produces 450hp (compared to 465hp for last year’s model) and a maximum torque of 430Nm. Despite the lower horsepower figures, Porsche claims the 2009 model is easier to drive because the engine produces a higher output at lower rev levels throughout the range and a better torque curve.

Inside the racing cockpit is a new display that tells drivers when the best time is to change gears. Although Porsche did not go in to specifics about this, it looks similar to the system used in the Ferrari F430 and 599GTB supercars. As you can see from this gallery picture, the interior is completely stripped bare compared to a standard 911 and comes with the usual assortment of race-specific buttons.

The cost for a racing 911 is mind-boggling when compared to a standard 911. The RSR, for example, costs €380,000, which is around US$500,000 at today’s exchange rates, well above the price of a 911 GT2 at $200,000.

2009 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR Wallpaper

Ex-McLaren designer reveals plans for P1-E electric roadster

Almost a year ago we first reported about a new lightweight British sports car designed by former McLaren Cars employee Jim Dowle. The car was codenamed ‘Project 001’ and it was to be the first development of Dowle’s new engineering outfit, JJAD. Not much has been heard about JJAD and its Project 001 since then but now details about an all-electric roadster from the small British start-up have surfaced.

JJAD's latest project is called the P1-E and it will be based on the same platform being developed for Project 001. The design of Project 001 and the P1-E has been inspired by cars like the Lancia Stratos and Lotus Exige, but unlike the two classics JJAD’s cars will be very advanced and feature the latest in automotive technology.

The P1-E will be powered by lithium-ion batteries and will have a claimed 0-60mph time of just 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 130mph. To improve performance, weight will be kept low. The car’s body will be made of lightweight composite panels pinned to a carbon-fiber and aluminum tub. The final kerb weight is expected to be just 1,055kg. The P1-E is expected to have a driving range of 200 miles on a single charge.

Power will come from two electric motors, one at each axle, and will measure in at a combined 390hp and 590lb-ft of torque. Four-wheel drive endows the car with maximum traction. It also allows regenerative braking on each wheel, the energy gained from which is used to top up the batteries.

JJAD will build three prototypes over the next couple of years and is hoping to build and sell up to 500 cars by 2012.

Peugeot may join Fiat-Chrysler alliance

Fiat Group, Chrysler and its parent company Cerberus Capital Management last week released a joint statement announcing they had signed a non-binding term sheet to establish a global strategic alliance. The alliance, to be a key element of Chrysler’s viability plan, would provide the American carmaker with access to competitive, fuel-efficient vehicle platforms, new powertrains, and components to be produced at Chrysler manufacturing sites. Now it appears PSA Peugoet Citroen may be joining the two as well, via a merger with Fiat.

The new deal between Fiat and Peugeot is far from certain, however. A Reuters report has Fiat searching Europe to secure a credit line of up to €5 billion ($6.4 billion) to finance a takeover of Peugeot. At the same time the Agnelli family, which owns about 30% of Fiat SpA, is financing an increase in its stake to the tune of €2 billion ($2.56 billion) in order to retain a controlling stake in the merged company. Neither Fiat nor Peugeot are commenting on the matter, however. Should the three carmakers - Fiat, Chrysler and Peugeot - partner, the conglomerate would become the third largest in the global industry, behind Toyota and GM.

While the Peugeot inclusion awaits further definition, however, the Fiat-Chrysler tie-up is well underway. Per that agreement, Fiat would provide distribution capabilities in key growth markets, as well as substantial cost saving opportunities and management expertise for Chrysler in addition to givign Chrysler access to its technology and components. The alliance would essentially allow both carmakers to take advantage of each other's distribution networks and production capabilities.

Importantly, the deal would not involve Fiat making a cash investment in Chrysler or committing to funding Chrysler in the future. Instead, in return for product and platform sharing, technology sharing, and access to additional markets, Fiat would receive an initial 35% equity interest in Chrysler.

Some of the proposed benefits for Chrysler include city and compact vehicles sourced from Fiat, fuel efficient and environmentally friendly powertrain technologies, and access to distribution channels for Chrysler vehicles in markets outside of North America.

At the same time, the deal would also provide Fiat with a much-needed platform for re-entry into the U.S. market. Cars like the tremendously successful Fiat 500 and any number of Alfa Romeos could find many happy homes among U.S. buyers increasingly concerned with emissions, fuel efficiency and vehicle cost. For Fiat, however, it's not a sensible business proposition to sell those cars in the U.S. unless they are built locally.

New Car-NAIAS 2009-Cadillac Converj Concept

Luxury coupe concept continues GM’s leadership in the electrification of the automobile

General Motors unveiled a further glimpse at the potential of electric propulsion today, this time in the form of luxury transportation, with the Cadillac Converj Concept. The Cadillac Converj was developed as a well-appointed grand touring coupe with a bold design and a host of interactive technology.

The four-passenger Converj concept is intended to show how GM’s revolutionary electric propulsion technology – called Voltec – can power a luxury coupe with a typically Cadillac “no compromises” design. The technology enables up to 40 miles of gas- and emissions-free electric driving with extended-range capability of hundreds of miles.

Bob Lutz, GM's vice chairman of Global Product Development, said the Converj concept has production substance. “It’s a logical extension of our plan to reinvent the automobile,” he said. “It clearly shows what a Cadillac electric vehicle could look like, and clearly indicates that global luxury customers can have a car that has both strong design and electric propulsion with a total range of hundreds of anxiety-free miles.”

Cadillac’s extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) concept has a new body style that is an evolution of the brand’s traditional Art and Science design theme. An aggressive, forward-leaning arc profile is the foundation for the sporting stance. And more than a Cadillac in form, Converj is also intended to be a Cadillac in substance, with the premium materials, technology and driving dynamics that are hallmarks of the brand.

Voltec – innovative propulsion technology

The Cadillac Converj’s Voltec electric propulsion system is made up of a 16-kWh, T-shaped battery, an electric drive unit, and a four-cylinder engine-generator. It uses electricity as its primary source to drive the car.

A thermally managed battery pack contains more than 220 lithium-ion cells that provide the primary power to drive the Converj electrically up to 40 miles without using fuel or producing tailpipe emissions. The battery is integrated into the Converj’s chassis and stores electricity from the grid when the vehicle is plugged in. It takes less than three hours to recharge the battery at 240V, or about eight hours from a 120V outlet.

When the battery’s energy is low, the Converj seamlessly switches to extended-range mode. During this secondary level of operation, electricity needed to power the vehicle is created on-board by a flex-fuel-powered engine that operates much like a home generator to create electricity. The engine-generator ensures a constant supply of power for hundreds of miles until the car is refueled or plugged in to recharge the battery. This extended-range mode eliminates the range anxiety that comes with driving pure electric vehicles that offer no backup power when the battery charge is low.

Whether in electric or extended-range mode, the Converj is propelled all the time by an electric drive unit. It converts electrical energy from the battery or the engine-generator into mechanical energy to drive the front wheels. It also delivers 273 lb.-ft. (370 Nm) of instant torque, for a quick launch, and 120 kW of power. The top speed is 100 mph.

There is no compromise in vehicle performance in either mode of operation. To enhance the ride feel, the Converj also features GM’s Magnetic Ride Control; and for even greater efficiency, energy during braking is captured and stored in the battery.

Pure Cadillac design

There’s no mistaking the Converj for anything but a Cadillac, according to Lutz. “An aggressive, forward-leaning profile hints at a new, progressive theme and proportion in Cadillac’s design evolution,” he says. “The new proportion showcases a uniquely shaped, modern vision of a personal luxury 2+2.”

The overall shape is reinforced by a prominent, sweeping body line with large, 21-inch (front) and 22-inch (rear) wheels pushed to the edges of the body. The Converj exterior is painted a dark silver tri-coat that GM designers dubbed “Reaction.”

An all-glass roof incorporates solar panels that help offset power drain from the vehicle’s accessories. Additionally, several aerodynamic and design efficiencies were incorporated to enhance the driving range, including:

* A full under-vehicle cover (belly pan)
* Minimal grille openings that reduce drag at the front of the vehicle
* Low-profile rearview cameras replace conventional outside mirrors to reduce drag
* Wheels are shaped to push air outward for smoother body side airflow

The Converj also incorporates vertical headlamp and taillamp elements, with light pipe technology.

“Vertical lamps are Cadillac signatures and the Converj builds on the brand’s light pipe technology with bolder light emitting diode (LED) and high-intensity discharge elements front and rear,” said Clay Dean, global design director for Cadillac. “There is also a unique daylight light ‘spear’ at the top of the headlamps.”

Luxury meets technology inside

The Converj’s interior has advanced features and luxurious appointments blending efficiency and environmental consciousness. The 2+2 configuration is trimmed in contrasting Winter White synthetic suede – including the top of the instrument panel – and Midnight Black leather, with polished aluminum and wood grain accents. Renewable materials are used throughout such as wool-blend carpeting, a headliner made from silk, suede made from post-industrial content and more.

A technologically advanced driver center increases efficiency and reduces the draw on the battery. Features include:

* New, organic light-emitting diode technology used on reconfigurable instrument cluster
* Touch-screen navigation, climate, center-stack controls and audio systems
* Adjustable, overhead white ambient lighting
* Unique “power on” sequence featuring blue-lit console graphics
* Screen displays for features including regenerative braking, battery charge level and power output
* No inside rearview or outside mirrors; cameras provide surrounding images on a screen placed high on the instrument panel for a full, panoramic view
* Push-button ignition and power-folding front seats

Cadillac Converj Wallpaper

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GMI launches automatic variant of the Chevrolet Captiva SUV

General Motors India has launched a new variant of its SUV, the Chevrolet Captiva. The vehicle is fitted with an automatic gearbox and is priced at Rs 20.30 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi. With its 150bhp, 2.0-litre common-rail diesel engine and automatic all-wheel-drive (AWD), the new Captiva will take on SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Ford Endeavour and the Mitsubishi Outlander. GMI sold around 2,500 units of the Captiva last year and hopes to better than number in 2009.

The Chevrolet Captiva is now available with automatic transmission

On a greener note, GMI is also preparing to launch more LPG / CNG powered variants of some of its vehicles, the first of which is expected to be out in the market in the first half of this year.

Honda Insight Hybrid More details revealed

Honda has released more details on the Insight Hybrid, a five-door family hatchback that looks all set to take on the Toyota Prius on its own turf. Fitted with Honda’s petrol-electric Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system, the Insight is supposed to be one of the most affordable hybrids on the market, with low emissions and great fuel economy in real world driving conditions. The Honda Insight 1.3 IMA SE also proves that hybrids don’t have to be dull. With 87bhp from its 1.3-litre petrol engine and 14bhp from its electric motor, and 121Nm of torque from the engine and 79Nm of torque from the electric motor, the Insight is certainly not short on motive power. Fitted with a very efficient CVT transmission, the car will accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 12.5 seconds and has a top speed of 180km/h.

The all-new Honda Insight Hybrid. For the first time ever, the Toyota Prius is going to have some serious competition to deal with...!

Honda has not released pricing details for the new Insight, but the car is expected to be at least 20% cheaper than the Prius, prices for which start at the equivalent of about Rs 14.5 lakh in Europe. Official prices will be announced in April this year, when the car goes on sale.

Honda aims to sell around 200,000 units of the Insight globally, per year. Along with the new Jazz Hybrid, Civic Hybrid and a sporty new hybrid based on the CR-Z, Honda is targeting sales of up to 500,000 hybrids globally, per year.

To begin with, the Insight will be produced at Honda’s factory in Suzuka, in Japan. Technologically, it will be significantly more advanced than, say, the Honda Civic Hybrid, which was also sold in India last year. The Insight will have cutting edge technologies like Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), which will automatically sense the amount of power/torque needed in any given driving situation, and will switch off the petrol engine when it’s not needed, running the car on electric power alone.

The Insight’s electric motor will be powered by a new-generation nickel-metal hydride battery, which has been optimised for power delivery and reduced charging time. The car also comes with Eco Assist and has a super economy driving mode, both of which help a driver get the best fuel efficiency from the car.

There’s an almost endless list of safety features which Honda has fitted to the Insight, but we won’t get into that. You know most of those anyway – anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, fancy seatbelts and a dozen airbags. No, what this car is all about is being on the cutting edge of affordable green technology, and that’s where the Insight Hybrid will excel.

We expect Honda to offer a limited number of Insight Hybrids in the Indian market, perhaps priced at around Rs 18-20 lakh. If it is indeed launched here, the Insight should be a very big hit for Honda. Stay tuned for news on this one!

GM loses no.1 crown to Toyota, but continues to do well in emerging markets

General Motors, which saw an 11% decline in its total sales worldwide in 2008 and which has now lost the ‘no.1 car maker’ position to Toyota, actually witnessed a 9% increase in sales in the Indian market last year.

Even as its US operations struggle to survive, GM is doing reasonably well in countries like Brazil, Russia, India and China. In 2008, GM’s sales increased by 10% in Brazil, by 30% in Russia, by 9% in India and by 6% in China. That was still not enough, though, to stop GM from sliding to the no.2 position – the company sold 8.36 million vehicles worldwide in 2008, while Toyota managed to sell 8.97 million vehicles during the same period.

In the meanwhile, General Motors India (GMI) has a few new car launches lined up for this year, including a brand-new small hatchback and the Chevrolet Cruze, a sedan that’ll compete in the Toyota Corolla Altis / Honda Civic segment.

Ford India appoints Suneil Shetty as brand ambassador for Endeavour SUV, hikes prices of all its cars

Ford India has announced the appointment of Hindi film actor Suneil Shetty as the brand ambassador for the Ford Endeavour SUV. ‘Cars have always ranked high on my priority list and the Ford Endeavour is a dream come true for any car buff looking for a true blue SUV,’ says Shetty.In order to pay Mr Shetty for his services, Ford India has also hiked priced of all its cars, except the Ikon. Er… no, we’re just kidding. Ford has raised prices of its cars in order to offset the increase in import costs and increases in the prices of locally sourced components.

The Ford Endeavour is now more expensive by Rs 25,000

The Ford Fiesta will be now be more expensive by Rs 5,000-10,000 (depending on the variant), the Fusion’s prices have been increased by Rs 15,000 and the Endeavour is now Rs 25,000 more expensive. The Endeavour SUV has an import content of about 70%, while Fiesta and Fusion models have about 20-30% imported content.

Toyota Announces Prices For 2009 Yaris Subcompact

Manufacturer Technical Specifications

General
Country Of Origin		Japan
Year Of Introduction		2009
Base Price When New		$12,205 (3 door Liftback)
Miles Per Gallon		29 mpg city/35 mpg highway
Body Type		N.A
Curb Weight		N.A
Powertrain Layout		N.A
Transmission		Automatic
Engine
Configuration		N.A
Displacement		N.A
Power		N.A
Torque		N.A
BHP / Liter		N.A
BHP / Weight		N.A
Redline		N.A
Performance
Top Speed		N.A
0 - 62 mph		N.A
0 - 100 mph		N.A
0 - 250 mile		N.A
Skidpad		N.A
Braking, 62-0 mph		N.A
Slalom Speed		N.A

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the three fuel efficient 2009 Toyota Yaris subcompact models. MSRPs will range from $12,205 for the three-door Liftback Base model to $15,880 for the Sedan S model when the vehicles hit dealerships later this summer. Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 29 mpg city/35 mpg highway/31 mpg combined for all three body styles with an automatic transmission and 29/36/32 mpg for the manual transmission models.

The excellent fuel economy, combined with extensive standard equipment and fun-to-drive features make Yaris an outstanding value. For 2009, Yaris is available in three body styles: a sedan, three-door Liftback, and an all-new five-door liftback, each in Base and Sporty "S" grades.

All Yaris grades will now feature a number of standard safety features, including anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), driver and front passenger front seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags. New exterior colors for the 2009 Yaris include Zephyr Blue Metallic and Blue Streak Metallic on Sedan and Yellow Jolt and Carmine Red Metallic on Liftback.

Prices for the Yaris three-door Liftback models range from $12,205 for the Base grade with four cylinder engine and manual five-speed transmission to $14,825 for the S grade with four cylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission.

The all-new five-door Liftback model prices range from $13,305 for the Base grade with four cylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission to $15,125 for the S grade with four cylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission.

Yaris Sedan model pricing ranges from $12,965 for the Base grade with four cylinder engine and manual five-speed transmission to $15,880 for the S grade with four cylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission.

New Car - Maserati GranTurismo

Manufacturer Technical Specifications

General
Country Of Origin		Italy
Year Of Introduction		2009
Base Price When New		N.A
Miles Per Gallon		N.A
Body Type		4 Door Sedan
Curb Weight		N.A
Powertrain Layout		Mid Engine / RWD
Transmission		6-Speed
Engine
Configuration		V8
Displacement		4,691 cm3
Power		323 kW (433hp) @ 7,000 rpm
Torque		490 Nm ( 361 lb/ft) @ 4,750 rpm
BHP / Liter		N.A
BHP / Weight		N.A
Redline		N.A
Performance
Top Speed		285 Km/h
0 - 62 mph		5.1 sec
0 - 100 mph		13.4 sec
0 - 250 mile		23.9 sec
Skidpad		N.A
Braking, 62-0 mph		N.A
Slalom Speed		N.A

The New Quattroporte Sport GT S

Introduction

The new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S sets another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury sedan segment. Conceived and developed as "a real driving machine in the guise of a luxury sedan", the Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati's sportiness in the Quattroporte range.

The uniqueness of the car in its segment is denoted by some important features.

First of all, it truly offers sporty handling thanks to a suspension set-up which further enhances the Quattroporte's already optimal dynamic balance. The new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S is targeted at those customers who demand the unparalleled handling of a thoroughbred sports car even in a luxury sedan.

Secondly, it features the latest evolution of sporty automatic gear-shifting software, designed to win over committed and demanding drivers, seeking an exciting driving experience.

Last but not least, it is equipped with a sports exhaust which, by means of the "Sport" button, makes it possible to deploy the full power of the engine and produce a deeply enveloping and throaty exhaust note.

Powertrain overview
The technical changes to the new Quattroporte Sport GT S compared with the Quattroporte S concern four areas: the engine mapping, the gearshift management software, the suspension set-up and the exhaust system.

1. V8 4.7 liter engine power is increased to 323kW (433 hp) thanks to the adoption of a sport exhaust system that allows the vehicle's power to be fully exploited;
2. specific gear-shifting software with new features designed to increase driving enjoyment;
3. front and rear suspension featuring single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height
4. sports exhaust controlled by pneumatic valves for a deep, throaty and captivating sound enhanced by large twin-oval tailpipes.

Engine
The Quattroporte Sport GT S's engine has been developed to favor maximum power output.
Emission levels conform to Euro5 regulations.

Main technical data:
• Displacement: V8 4,691 cc
• Power: 323 kW (433hp) @ 7,000 rpm
• Torque: 490 Nm ( 361 lb/ft) @ 4,750 rpm
• Max engine speed: 7,200 rpm

Exhaust system
• "NORMAL" MODE – FLAPS CLOSED
In "Normal" mode, the valves are closed forcing the exhaust gases along a long route so that they lose their energy and are emitted with very little noise, thus facilitating on board acoustic comfort.
• "SPORT" MODE – FLAPS OPENED
When the "Sport" button is pressed, the valves which were initially closed, open up through a pneumatic control and the flow of exhaust gases are channeled down a route that leads directly to the outside, providing enthusiasts with a distinctive sound, giving voice to the deep and throaty V8.

Transmission
The new Quattroporte Sport GT S is equipped with an automatic six-speed transmission developed with sportiness in mind thanks to the employment of a new and specific gear-shifting strategy: the MC-Auto Shift. Introduced for the first time on this model, it represents the ultimate evolution of the automatic transmission software in terms of sportiness and features specific characteristics which further enhance driving pleasure.
• "MC AUTO SHIFT" mode:
Some of the car's features are exclusively dedicated to those people with an adequate driving experience, and recommended only for the use of the car on the race track and in a situation of complete safety.

In Sport Automatic mode the gearshift technology enables sporty driving. Moreover, in order to optimize standing starts, the automatic gearbox offers the MC Start Strategy, which functions with the MSP off. The driver should press and hold the brake pedal, then start pressing the accelerator and releases the brake pedal only when the optimum revs are reached (between 2300-2500 rpm). This fast start strategy, recommended only for use on the race track and in a situation of complete safety, reduces the 0 to 100 Km/h (0-62 mph) time from 5.3 seconds to 5.1 seconds.
• "MANUAL MODE":
In manual mode the gear-shift is directly controlled by the driver, allowing the engine to reach its top speed.
In order to allow the driver to find the optimum gear-shifting point, the car features a digital "rpm indicator" on the dashboard display (same as on GranTurismo S). Moreover, the paddle shifts (Active Shifting), integrated with the steering column, present an ergonomic layout (same as on GranTurismo S) with effective results in on-the-limit driving conditions on winding roads.
• "MANUAL SPORT"/"AUTO SPORT" mode:
When down-shifting, the throttle blip is matched with the SPORT-mode exhaust sound to facilitate maximum driving enjoyment.

Handling

The Quattroporte Sport GT S features a sporty passive damping suspension system designed to further enhance the Quattroporte S's already state-of-the-art dynamic balance.

The new suspension set-up reduces the front and the rear ground clearance. In addition, the spring stiffness has been increased by 30% at the front and 10% at the rear.

These new features facilitate
• Greater agility when cornering and greater steering wheel responsiveness;
• more grip when exiting corners;
• improved cornering stability.

Style

Exterior
At the front, the sportier, more "aggressive" look of the new Quattroporte Sport GT S is expressed by the new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red accents, typical of the sportier versions of Maserati models. It is also further enhanced by the new headlights, in metallic titanium finish.

The Trident logo with red accents also features on the "C" pillar.

The side and the rear of the car feature a new "shadow line", which includes black finishing around the doors, body-colored door handles and black twin oval exhaust pipes.

New 20" Multi Trident Silver wheels are fitted as standard, together with red brake calipers and Dual Cast technology brakes.

The exterior body color range includes all 19 colors available for the Quattroporte and the Quattroporte S.

As an option, dark chrome 20" Multi Trident wheels are available, as well as dark chrome 20" seven-spoke wheels and the "Chrome Line", which includes chrome door line, chrome handles and chrome exhaust.

Interior

The sporty look of the interior features new M-design seats with perforated Alcantara® and leather upholstery.

The standard trim is the new Titantex: designed to further enhance the car's sporty characteristics, this "titanium colored" composite material, provides a light colored trim with a remarkable 3-D effect. The dashboard trim incorporates the "Quattroporte Sport GT S" script.

The steering wheel features the Maserati "Active Shifting" paddles (longer for improved ergonomics).

The new additional digital rpm display on the dashboard indicates when to change gears.

The interior configuration range features 10 leather colors (Avorio, Sabbia, Cuoio, Marrone Corniola, Grigio Ghiaccio, Grigio Medio, Blu Navy, Rosso Corallo, Bordeaux, Nero) which can be combined with 5 Alcantara® shades (Beige, Pearl Beige, Grigio, Blu Trofeo, Nero).

Among the new interior options clients can choose:
• Aluminium sports pedals
• Full leather upholstery, at no extra cost.
• Carbon-fiber interior trim
• Head lining in Alcantara® in a choice of five colors: Beige, Pearl Beige, Grigio, Blu Trofeo, Nero

Technical Specifications*
*US Specifications on separate document

ENGINE Quattroporte Sport GT S
Displacement 4,691 cm3
Bore 94 mm
Stroke 85 mm
Compression Ratio 11 : 1
Maximum Power 323 kW (440 CV)
Engine speed at maximum power output 7,000 rpm
Peak torque 490 Nm
Engine speed at peak torque 4,750 rpm
Max engine speed 7,200 rpm

PERFORMANCE Quattroporte Sport GT S
Max speed 285 Km/h
0-100 Km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration 5.1* s
Stopping distance 100-0 Km/h (62-0 mph) 35 m

FUEL CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS Quattroporte Sport GT S
Urban cycle 23.95 l/100 Km
Extra-urban cycle 10.91 l/100 Km
Combined cycle 15.71 l/100 Km
CO2 emissions – combined cycle 365 g/km

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS Quattroporte Sport GT S
Length 5,097 mm
Width 1,895 mm
Height 1,423 mm
Wheelbase 3,064 mm
Front track 1,582 mm
Rear track 1,595 mm
Front overhang 891 mm
Rear overhang 1,142 mm
Turning circle 12.3 m
Boot capacity 450 L
Fuel tank capacity 90 l
Dry weight 1,880 Kg
Kerb weight 1,990 Kg
Weight distribution 49% front. ; 51 % rear.