Maserati released the new model of the Quattroporte at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, and once again, it echoes of luxury. Its name describes exactly what the car is as Quattroporte in Italian means 'four doors.' The 2012 model continues to be one of the most prestigious cars that Maserati has to offer. The car has a creative design, and there are vents placed along the side that curve in and out to increase aerodynamics. This ultimately increases speed and decreases fuel consumption.
The interior was carefully designed to allow for ease of use of the cars complex instruments. The car's interior is breathtaking as its wooden dashboard and Poltrona Frau Leather does not fail to live up to the reputation of luxury that Maserati is associated with. Even though there are plenty of bells and whistles, all controls are thoughtfully placed and easy to use, so you don't have to take your eyes off the road. The cabin is technically able to seat five; however four adults would be much more comfortable overall. There is plenty of room for golf clubs in the trunk too as it offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up.
The 2012 Maserati Quattroporte base model is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. This accelerates zero to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, but this power comes with a cost; fuel economy is horrible as the vehicle only returns 12 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Those that feel the need to have just a pinch more power will want to go with the S or GT S to shave two seconds off that acceleration time. These trims are equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 engine that boasts 428 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque. While it's not a huge difference, you can definitely feel it off the line. Both engines are paired up with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Of course, what would this striking sedan be without Maserati's iconic list of safety features? Child seat anchors, dusk sensing headlamps, engine immobilizer, fog lights, stability and traction control, post-collision safety system, self-leveling headlights, tire pressure monitoring, emergency interior trunk release and electronic brakeforce distribution all come standard.
Whether you need a four-door vehicle or not, it's hard not to be attracted to the 2012 Maserati Quattroporte, especially when you slip behind the wheel to be enveloped in luxury. It delivers in performance, style and safety categories; what more could you ask for?