Top Gear - Maserati

 

 

There's no word on performance yet, but if you consider the 4.2-litre V8 will haul the GT to 60mph in 5.2 seconds - and that the (admittedly lighter) 8C will hit the same speed in 4.2 seconds - you're looking at some pretty lively performance.

Maserati has replaced the standard ZF six-speed auto gearbox with a faster-shifting paddle-shift 'electro-actuated' box. In truth, we rather liked the old 'box, but a more aggressive transmission should suit the S nicely.

We were never so convinced by the GT's standard brakes, so we're delighted to see that the S gets a brand-new set of Brembo discs cast from iron and aluminium, paired with six-piston mono-bloc callipers.

The GranTurismo S also gets a pair of shiny new oval tailpipes, as well as new alloys and more deeply sculpted sills. On the inside, there's even more leather and alcantara. And a gorgeous model lounging on the front passenger seat if you ask nicely.

No word on prices yet, but expect a sizeable premium over the standard GranTurismo's £78,500 asking price. We'll endeavour to discover exactly how much of a premium in Geneva.