Maserati GranTurismo S Gets Automatic Gearbox

The 2009 Geneva Motor Show is a special event for all manufacturers. More than an opportunity to show off new vehicles, the show presents the attendants with the chance to state their place in the future post-crisis world. Maserati is no exception and will use the show as a chance to make true on its promises to introduce a new model at each international car show.

The Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic will bring a combination of the automatic transmission with the powerful wet sump V8 on the GranTurismo. The car was equipped until now with either a 4.2 l with automatic transmission or 4.7 l with an electro-actuated gearbox. Maserati engineers took the ZF 6 speed automatic transmission and matted it to the 4.7l V8 to get a 432 horsepower (323 kilowatt) output from the powerplant.

The Skyhook suspension system features continuously adjustable dampers that ensure a smooth ride. Passive safety is further enhanced thanks to the introduction on the GranTurismo range of a new generation passenger air-bag with Low Risk Deployment functionality.

The Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features some new design differences which set it apart from its predecessor. The car got new under-door mini-skirts featuring a prominent shape and new 20" wheel rims with "Trident" design.

Despite the economic decline felt by all sectors of the world's economy, Maserati seems to ride under a lucky star. The company has achieved record sales in 2008 as last year's figures rose to record levels for the second year in a row. Deliveries to the final customers have totaled almost 8,600 units, an all-time best result translated into a 17 percent increase over 2007.