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New Maserati GranTurismo Folgore: An electric-powered return to form?
After nearly two decades of producing models that seemed unable to hit the mark, can the brand’s first EV follow the recent MC20 in becoming a genuine alternative to Porsche and Audi? Jonny Smith samples all 761hp to find out.
Maserati, just like fellow Stellantis brand, Alfa Romeo, harbors a checkered past. Despite producing some truly epic machines in its illustrious 110 year history, since the turn of the century some might say there’s been little to write home about.
Up until very recently, to many, buying a Maserati meant foregoing the dynamic ability, performance, build quality, and practicality, of the competition in the sole pursuit of exclusivity. However, as Jonny quickly discovers, you no longer need to make such sacrifices to own a Trident-emblazoned GT.
But, before the devout petrolheads get their own pitchforks and torches out, let’s address the most salient detail of this new GranTurismo Folgore: yes, it’s an EV. But, if you’d rather have one with a howling V6 petrol engine, Maserati will sell you one of those too.
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It’s the range-topping 202mph EV that Jonny has his hands on today, though. So, what does he think?
Starting with the styling, he’s fond of the paired-back, subtle exterior lines, and the LED detailing running down the wings. And, the new car appears to buck the typical Maserati trend of letting things go awry on the inside. Jonny notes that the interior quality and design are now on par with the price tag (just shy of £200,000) and the German alternatives.
Out on the open road, the compliments keep on coming. Despite weighing over 400kg more than its petrol sibling, Maserati’s insistence on mounting the batteries in a unique way has resulted in a lower centre of gravity than other EVs. As such, Jonny argues that the GranTurismo is a worthy competitor to Porsche’s Taycan and Audi’s E-Tron GT in the bends.
Dispatching 0-60mph in just 2.7 seconds is impressive whatever way you look at it, but Jonny is equally excited by the colossal torque figure (995lb ft) making overtaking laughably easy. But what’s the Folgore like when you’re not in warp-speed mode? And is it any good at being a comfortable GT mile-muncher? Find out all this and more, in the video above.