Maserati Quattroporte S and Granturismo S at Goodwood

A stellar array of supercars kicked off the 2008 Goodwood Festival of Speed on Friday with manufacturers showcasing the very latest - and fastest - performance icons. Maserati lovers and fellow spectators were treated to the first UK glimpses of the trident marque’s two latest additions: the Quattroporte S and the GranTurismo S.

The Quattroporte S, the latest incarnation of Maserati’s iconic flagship saloon, drew admiring glances thanks to its scintillating performance on the track and its inimitable style in the paddock. The Quattroporte S has a dual soul as a luxury saloon with sports-car performance and is fully responsive in all driving conditions whilst cosseting the driver in its luxurious and distinctive ‘Made in Italy’ interior. It’s equipped with a 4.7 litre V8 delivering a maximum power output of 430 CV at 7,000 rpm, accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 5.4 seconds and has a maximum speed of 174 mph.

The GranTurismo S flew up the hill with supermodel Jodie Kidd behind the wheel on Saturday while celebrity chef and car collector, James Martin, took to the track on Sunday. The GranTurismo S is the ultimate expression of the Trident’s sportiness. Its 440 hp V8 4.7 litre engine, electro-actuated gearbox with fast MC Shift, transaxle layout, sporty exhaust and dual-cast brakes make the GranTurismo S a true ambassador for Maserati’s sporting flair, with acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds and a maximum speed of 183 mph, the highest ever reached by a standard production Maserati.

Official prices for Maserati’s latest models, which will reach the UK showrooms in September were also announced. The new Maserati Quattroporte will be on sale at £79,000 and the Quattroporte S at £85,000. Prices for the GranTurismo S will start at £89,900.