2013 Maserati GranTurismo Expert Review

Vehicle Overview

The Maserati GranTurismo serves as the Italian sports car maker's GT offering, delivering a unique blend of style, performance, and luxury. While the GranTurismo might not be as sporty as its Ferrari corporate cousins, we've found it to be a thrilling two-door that's as impressive to look at as it is to drive.

The 2013 Maserati GranTurismo is offered in three trim levels in coupe form, including S Automatic, MC, and Sport; and two convertible

trim levels, including base and Sport. All three are powered by a 4.7-liter V-8, though output varies from 433-454 hp and 361-384 lb-ft of torque, depending on trim. A six-speed automatic transmission with steering column-mounted paddle shifters is the only gearbox choice, and helps the GranTurismo achieve an EPA-rated 13/21 mpg city/highway in coupe form. Convertible models are rated at 13/20 mpg.

We particularly loved the sound of the GranTurismo's Ferrari-assembled V-8 engine, saying in a review, "As the Maser enters high in the rev counter, its sound is expanded as if plugged into an amplifier set to 11 -- a deep and sinister concoction of exotica and Motown permeating all." Choose the drop-top model, and you get a front row seat to that sweet V-8 music. We also noted how quickly yet smooth the automatic transmission fires off shifts. A 2013 Maserati GranTurismo Sport coupe we tested his 60 mph from a standstill in 4.6 seconds, and also laid down a figure-eight time in the same ballpark as the Porsche Cayman, BMW M3, and a few Mercedes-Benz AMG models.

Inside, the GranTurismo's four-seat cabin is highlighted by Poltrona Frau leather and brushed metal trim. When you're not enjoying the sound of the V-8, a standard Bose surround sound audio system provides the soundtrack. Also standard is a hard drive-based navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod integration, and 30 GB of storage for media. A matching five-piece set of Salvatore Ferragamo luggage is available, and is designed to fit perfectly in the GranTurismo coupe's trunk.