MASERATI Quattroporte GTS Review

The cabin may be a bit less flavored than the previous one was in its time, but it wins the battle thanks to extra space and practicality.

Speaking of this, the luggage compartment was increased to 18.7 cubic feet (530 liters). However, the fancy design of the rear end means the loading area isn't exactly wide.

We're in the middle of the city now and our attempts to load some large stuff are falling into the "just for giggles" category. Time to leave the empty test boxes behind and hit the traffic then.

We may have complained about the non-inspiring door mirrors, but these sure do prove useful here. You will need any help you can get, as you can't ignore the size of the Maserati Quattroporte inside the city.

Fortunately, the rest of the car has no problem being driven around town. As you set off, the speed-sensitive power steering, which has stayed hydraulic, is very easy to operate. Once you reach 25 mph (40 km/h) the steering weighs up nicely.

Mainly thanks to this, the Quattroporte is one of those rare cars that can feel alive even at city speeds. The vehicle’s all-adaptive hardware is more than ready to play things smooth, when necessary.

That V8 up front is surprisingly tame, but once you're past 2.000 rpm it instantly reminds you of its abilities. And since it's working with ZF-s eight-speed automatic, things are going really well.

And while you keep things relaxed, you can enjoy the optional Bowers and Wilkins audio system. This features fifteen speakers and Harman’s Quantum Logic surround tech. It offers a sweet experience, something worthy of nine out of ten stars.

Oh dear, we've pressed the powertrain's Sport button and now we're desperate to get out on that open road. Sure, the engine and gearbox can play nice, but we mustn't forget what we're dealing with here.