Maserati was founded 100 years ago, and the Maserati GranTurismo has been on the market through various iterations for well over half a decade. At the most recent New York International Auto Show, which took place April 18th to April 27th, Maserati made quite the colorful entrance. How so?
To keep auto aficionados always on the edge of their seats, the venerable brand debuted a special edition to its fleet that’s all about the looks – the GranTurismo Centennial Edition. The centennial edition, which is available in both coupe and convertible form, was created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Maserati and is the ultimate expression of the GranTurismo series.
The models come in new special edition exterior pearlescent three-layered paint finishes. As for these unique hues, think Magma red and an ink blue dubbed Inchiostro blue that Maserati calls “a modern interpretation of the Maserati logo,” representing “the traditional colors of the town of Bologna where the company was founded in 1914.”
The forged alloy wheels with laser edged paint finishes are adorned with a centennial logo shaped in the form of a medal, replacing the usual Trident. There are also seven newly commissioned bespoke interior accents.
“The GranTurismo MC Centennial ranges are vibrant offerings which reference the storied passion and romance of the Maserati tradition,” said Peter Grady, president and CEO of Maserati North America. “Along with the Ghibli and Quattroporte sedans, which have found a welcome reception in the market, the sporty new GranTurismo MC Centennial Edition coupes and convertibles are for those who desire inspired automobiles.” As mentioned earlier, the special edition vehicle comes with a wide range of interiors, too. Each of the seven exterior finishes is combined with a specific interior finish.
The leather upholstered seats boast a particularly aggressive look with a contrasting decorative insert based on the three colors (red, white and blue) of the seat profiles. The motif also extends to the headrests and surrounds the embroidered Trident logo.
And it’s got serious oomph! The GranTurismo MC Centennial Edition range is powered by the 454 HP, 4.7 liter V8, combined with a ZF 6-speed Automatic transmission, providing superb performance and a top speed of 185 mph. Dual cast Brembo brakes and sport-tuned MC suspension also come standard. In keeping with Maserati philosophy, the vehicles also benefit from the advances made on previous models in terms of reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
The GranTurismo MC Centennial Edition range will be available alongside the current Maserati range, with sales due to begin in summer 2014.
