Sydney show: GranTurismo makes Maserati mania

THE stunning GranTurismo took centre stage on the Maserati stand at the Australian International Motor Show today. More than 130 Australian and New Zealand customers have already laid money down for the Italian luxury coupe and the car has been sold out until mid next year. Not bad for a car that costs $292,800.

The GranTurismo is powered by a 298kW/460Nm 4.2-litre V8 engine that helps it sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds. A new six-speed ZF automatic gearbox has been introduced for smooth shifts, but also allows the engine to rev to 7200rpm. The GranTurismo is a four-seat cruiser with sumptuous leather seats, but should also handle well with a front/rear weight distribution of 49 per cent/51 per cent for optimum balance. Maserati also presented the long-awaited ZF automatic version of the Quattroporte, replacing the automated-clutch manual version, with prices starting at $269,000.

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