Maserati Envisions a Future for Sedans and V8 Engines, Yet Not for Plug-In Hybrids.

      Maserati

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      This week, Maserati unveiled the essence of its 2027 lineup. With a fresh coat of paint and updated grilles, the refreshed GranTurismo, GranCabrio, and Grecale represent the brand’s primary offerings. Maserati expects these models to sustain the Italian luxury brand in the short term. But what comes next?

      During a Q&A after the reveal of these updated models, Maserati executives answered questions not only about the two-door and four-door vehicles presented but also about the brand's future—which likely involves V8 power and a newly reimagined sedan.

      “We have one of the best—if not the best—V6 engines in the world,” stated Maserati Chief Operating Officer Santo Ficili.

      Ficili indicated that the immediate focus for the team is to maximize the potential of the six-cylinder engine. However, he acknowledged that there are market segments that will only consider larger engines, particularly among high-end luxury buyers.

      “Of course, we are also considering the V8,” said Ficili.

      Engineering head Davide Danesin supported Ficili’s comments, noting the versatility of the V6 while recognizing the importance of keeping a V8 option viable.

      “We have the knowledge; we have the capability,” Danesin remarked.

      Currently, even though a V8 isn’t officially planned, it seems more attainable than a plug-in hybrid. The company is actively looking into opportunities to enhance its 48-volt mild hybrid system, likely to be integrated across the lineup in the long run. Additionally, Danesin mentioned that full hybrid powertrains are also being considered. However, plug-in hybrids? Don’t hold your breath.

      Danesin highlighted that Maserati has access to all three levels of hybrid technology within the broader “technological portfolio,” but he downplayed the compatibility of a plug-in hybrid with their sales strategy, citing concerns over weight and the reality that many customers don’t utilize the plug-in feature, rendering the batteries ineffective in terms of space and weight.

      So far, so good, right? Now, what’s in store for the future of Quattroporte?

      Maserati’s signature sedan is currently on an indefinite pause. It was intended to be succeeded by an electric vehicle. Yet both Ficili and Cristiano Fiorio, the brand’s chief marketer, believe there is still a future for sedans at Maserati.

      “Absolutely yes,” affirmed Fiorio. “I believe that the sedan will return.”

      Fiorio pointed out that Gen Z and Gen Alpha are what the company terms “retro-seeking” customers. These generations are beginning to turn away from the large, hyper-digital vehicles that have become popular in recent years. “The world is full of SUVs,” he stated.

      While the Grecale helps fill the gap left by the Quattroporte, Maserati understands that some customers desire a genuine executive sedan. Fiorio believes there’s potential for a new model, although the concept of a sedan may need to adapt with changing times.

      “Quattroporte is looking for something new,” he said.

      We’ll have to wait to see what that entails.

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