Review: Maserati Mk.6-I Quattroporte (2013-16)

Overview

Released in Australia in November 2013, the Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte was an executive sedan. Manufactured in Turin, Italy, the range initially consisted of the Quattroporte GTS, with the Quattroporte S and D variants following in April and June, respectively. Although available with a viscous coupling-based all-wheel drive system in international markets, right-hand drive models were solely available in rear-wheel drive.

In November 2015, the Maserati Quattroporte was released (positioned below the Quattroporte S).

V6 and V8 engines

The Quattroporte and Quarrtoporte S were powered by 3.0-litre V6 engines, while the Quattroporte GTS had a 3.8-litre V engine. All petrol engines, however, had aluminium alloy cylinder blocks and heads, double overhead camshafts (chain-driven), direct fuel-injection (operating at 200 bar), twin-scroll IHI turbines (one per cylinder bank), air-to-air intercoolers, four valves per cylinder and high-tumble cylinder heads with four cam phasers (two per cylinder head) for variable intake and exhaust valve timing. While the V6 engine had a 60 degree layout and a compression ratio of 9.7:1, the V8 engine had a 90 degree layout and a compression ratio of 9.5:1.

Models with V6 engines could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds and had a top speed of 285 km/h. Models with V8 engines, however, could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and had a top speed of 307 km/h.

The Quattroporte D was powered by VM Motori’s 3.0-litre A630 diesel V6 engine which had common-rail injection (operating at 2000 bar), double overhead camshafts (chain-driven), variable intake and exhaust valve timing, a variable geometry turbocharger, intercooler, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 16.5:1. As such, the Quattroporte D could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and had a top speed of 250 km/h. The Quattroporte D was also fitted with a ‘Maserati Active Sound’ exhaust system which used two sound actuators – fitted near the exhaust tailpipes – to accentuate and modulate the engine’s tones according to driving style, while a ‘Sport’ button provided greater resonance.

From November 2015, the Quattroporte D engine was upgraded with a ‘Start&Stop’ function which enabled it to shut down when the vehicle was stationary in traffic. Furthermore, all Quattroporte engines were upgraded to comply with Euro 6 emissions standards at this time.

Transmission

All engines were mated to eight-speed ZF AT8-HP70 automatic transmissions which had five dedicated shift modes – Auto Normal, Auto Sport, Manual Normal, Manual Sport and Increased Control Efficiency (I.C.E.) – and could be controlled via steering wheel gearshift paddles.

Dimensions

Compared to the Maserati Mk.5 Quattroporte , the Mk.6 Quattroporte was 166 mm longer (at 5263 mm), 53 mm wider (1948 mm) and had a 106 mm longer wheelbase (3170 mm). Although the Mk.6 Quattroporte had a steel monocoque, the extensive use of aluminium – for the front subframe, suspension components, doors, front wings bonnet and boot lid – contributed to an approximate mass reduction of 100 kg, with V6 and V8 models weighing 1860 kg and 1900 kg respectively. Furthermore, the Mk.6 Quattroporte had a 50:50 front:rear weight distribution and a coefficient of drag of 0.31 Cd.

Suspension and steering

The front suspension for the Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte consisted of high-mounted aluminium double wishbones, with forged aluminium shock towers, upper and lower control arms and uprights; the independent rear suspension was a five-link design with four aluminium suspension arms. Furthermore, the suspension included Maserati’s ‘Skyhook’ system which utilised electronically-controlled dampers that could be varied independently of one another and adjusted according to driver behaviour and road conditions.

The Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte had speed-sensitive hydraulic steering and a mechanical limited slip differential with an asymmetric locking function (providing 35 per cent lock-up under power and 45 per cent under release).

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte included dual front airbags (two-stage), front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

In November 2015, standard safety equipment was extended to include:

• Blind Sport Alert: operating at speeds above 10 km/h, Blind Spot Alert used two radar-based sensors located in the rear bumper to detect vehicles in the driver’s blind spots and alert the driver to their presence via a chime alert and an LED warning signal in the side mirrors; and,
• Rear Cross Path Alert: used the same sensors to detect approaching traffic that was travelling at speeds from 3 km/h to 16 km/h and may cross the vehicle’s path as it reversed from a parking space. If detected, the same chime alert and LED warning signal in the side mirrors would be used to warn the driver.

Brakes

Maserati Quattroporte models with V6 engines were fitted with 360 mm by 32 mm ventilated and cross-drilled brake discs with six-piston fixed alloy Brembo calipers and 350 mm by 28 mm ventilated and cross-drilled rear brake discs with four-piston fixed alloy Brembo calipers. Models with V8 engines, however, had 380 mm by 34 mm ventilated and cross-drilled front brake discs.

Features: Quattroporte D, S and GTS

Standard features for the Maserati Quattroporte and Quattroporte D included 19-inch ‘Tritone’ alloy wheels with 245/45 front and 275/40 rear tyres, a 600 watt sound system with ten speakers, a CD/DVD player and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/SD card reader), Bluetooth audio streaming and mobile phone connectivity, an 8.4-inch ‘Maserati Touch Control’ display with satellite navigation, vertically-ribbed front leather seats, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, twelve-way power adjustable and heated front seats, Poltrona Frau leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, active cruise control, directional bi-xenon headlights with washers, daytime LED running lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a reversing camera with park assist display, front and rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 40/60 split and folding rear seats, a proximity key with remote central locking, power windows, power adjustable and heated mirrors with folding function, a power adjustable steering column (for height and reach), driver memory settings (seats and steering column), four 12 volt power outlets, ambient lighting, a trip computer, tyre pressure monitoring, open pore ‘RADICA’ wood trim, an alarm and immobiliser.

The Quattroporte S was further equipped with a sunroof, while the Quattroporte GTS was distinguished by its 20-inch ‘Mercuiro’ alloy wheels with 245/40 front and 295/35 rear tyres, ‘Y shape’ leather seat design and high gloss Erable wood trim for the dashboard, door panels and central tunnel.

November 2015 update

In November 2015, standard features were extended to include a Harman Kardon sound system with twelve speakers and a twelve channel 900 watt amplifier, an ‘Easy Entry’ remote door release for the driver’s door, auto dipping door mirrors on reverse, the boot could be operated remotely using the key or by waving a foot under the rear bumper and the Maserati Telematics System featured a voice-activated ‘Siri Smart Personal Assistant’.

Specifications and equipment

• Specifications and equipment: Maserati Quattroporte (June 2014)

Review: Maserati Mk.6-II Quattroporte (2016-on)

Overview

Released in Australia in October 2016, the Maserati Mk.6 Series II (Mk.6-II) Quattroporte introduced a revised range that included GranLusso and GranSport variants, revised styling and improved aerodynamics. Furthermore, ‘Start&Stop’ systems were introduced for the petrol engines to reduce fuel consumption (previously limited to the post-November 2015 Quattroporte D).

Visually, the Maserati Mk.6-II Quattroporte could be identified by its new front bumper with matte black profile, new front grille ‘inspired’ by the Maserati Alfieri concept car with vertical chrome elements, matte black side skirts and door mirrors, and new rear bumper with matte black extractor. The Mk.6-II Quattroporte was fitted with an automatically operated ‘Air Shutter’ behind the front grille to control airflow to the radiator and, when closed, reduce aerodynamic drag. According to Maserati, the new bumpers and Air Shutter reduced aerodynamic drag by 10 per cent to 0.31 Cd

Inside, the Mk.6-II Quattroporte introduced a redesigned dashboard which had an 8.4-inch touch screen and infotainment system that was compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility systems.

Safety equipment

For the Maserati Mk.6-II Quattroporte, a new ‘Advanced Driver Assistance System’ was fitted as standard and included the following technologies –

• Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Brake Assist: monitored the distance to the vehicle ahead and, if there was a risk of a rear-end collision, the driver would be warned via visual and audible alerts. If the driver braked and the system determined that insufficient brake force had been applied, Advanced Brake Assist would compensate by providing additional braking;
• Automated Emergency Braking (AEB): if the driver failed to respond to visual and audible warning, AEB could apply the brakes to reduce vehicle speed and the severity of a collision;
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop&Go: when cruise control was activated, ACC utilised a radar sensor in the front grille to maintain a pre-set distance from the vehicle ahead by providing automatic braking and acceleration up to the cruising speed. The Stop&Go function enabled the Quattroporte to brake until the vehicle was stationary and would automatically accelerate within two seconds when the car ahead accelerated;
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW): using a forward-facing camera in the interior rear-view mirror, LDW operated at speeds over 70 km/h and would warn the driver via graphic instructions on the instrument panel and an acoustic chime if the Quattroporte unintentionally crossed lane markers; and,
• Surround View Camera: used four cameras – two lateral cameras beneath the door mirrors, a front camera and a rear camera – to generate a virtual 360 degree view of the vehicle that was displayed in the central display.

Like the post-November 2015 Maserati Quattroporte, the Mk.6-II Quattroporte continued to be fitted with Blind Spot Alert and Rear Cross Path warning systems.

Features: Maserati Quattroporte and Quattroporte D

Standard features for the Maserati Mk.6-II Quattroporte and Quattroporte D included the ‘Maserati Touch Control’ unit with an 8.4-inch display, satellite navigation, CD/DVD player, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity and audio streaming, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility systems.

Additional features included 19-inch ‘Tritone’ alloy wheels with 245/45 front and 275/40 rear tyres, a Harman Kardon audio system with a twelve channel 900 watt amplifier and ten speakers, a CD/DVD player and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/SD card reader), Bluetooth audio streaming and mobile phone connectivity, an 8.4-inch ‘Maserati Touch Control’ display with satellite navigation, vertically-ribbed front leather seats, dual-zone climate control air conditioning with Air Quality Sensor, grain leather upholstery, twelve-way power adjustable and heated front seats, directional bi-xenon headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), daytime LED running lights, dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a reversing camera with dynamic reference lines, front and rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with aluminium gearshift paddles, 40/60 split and folding rear seats, a proximity key with remote central locking, power adjustable and heated mirrors with folding and auto-dipping functions, power windows, a power adjustable steering column (for height and reach), driver memory settings (for seat and steering column), a power-operated sunroof, four 12 volt power outlets, ambient lighting, a trip computer, tyre pressure monitoring, open pore ‘Radica’ wood trim, an alarm and immobiliser.

Maserati Quattroporte GranLusso

Compared to the standard Maserati Quattroporte, the Quattroporte GranLusso was further equipped with four-zone climate control air conditioning, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and power-operated rear sunblind. Inside, the Quattroporte GranLusso was distinguished by its Ermengildo Zegna Edition interior which combined fine grain leather with natural fibre Zegna Mulberry Silk fabric for the seats, doors, headliner and sun visor.

The Quattroporte GranLusso could be identified by its 20-inch ‘Mercurio’ alloy wheels with 245/40 front and 285/35 rear tyres, front lower fascia design with floating bridge element and spoiler, chrome bumper finish, black-painted brake calipers, side skirts, body-coloured lower bumper profiles and body-coloured rear spoiler.

Maserati Quattroporte GranSport

Compared to the standard Maserati Quattroporte, the Quattroporte GranSport was distinguished by its sculpted sports seats, sport steering wheel in carbon fibre or full leather, stainless steel sport pedals, piano black wood trim for the dashboard and Alcantara headlining.

The Quattroporte GranSport could be identified by its 21-inch ‘Titano’ alloy wheels (with blue Tridents for the wheel centres), 245/35 front and 285/30 rear tyres, unique sports bumpers with a glossy black finish, lower fascia linked to the grilled with ‘aerodynamic inspired’ splits, blue inserts in the front Trident and side Saetta logo, red brake calipers and piano black rear spoiler.

The Quattroporte GranSport could also be specified with an optional, extra-cost ‘Interior Carbon Package’ which included a sport steering wheel, gear shift paddles, interior trim and door sills in polished carbon fibre.

Features: Maserati Quattroporte GTS

Unique within the range, the Maserati Quattroporte GTS was fitted with a Bowers & Wilkins Premium Sound System which had a 1280 amplifier, fifteen speakers and QuantumLogic Surround Sound.

Specifications and equipment

• Specifications and equipment: Maserati Quattroporte (October 2016)

Related links

• Maserati Australia: Maserati Quattroporte
• Wikipedia.org: Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte

Review: Maserati Mk.4-I Quattroporte (1995-97)

Overview

Released in August 1995, the Maserati Mk.4 Series I (Mk.4-I) Quattroporte was a large, luxury sedan. The Quattroporte range initially consisted of the 2.8i V6, powered by a 2.8-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine that was mated to either a six-speed Getrag manual transmission or a four-speed ZF automatic transmission.

In 1996, the range was expanded with the introduction of the 3.2i V8, powered by a 3.2-litre twin turbo petrol V8 engine; transmission options were the same as for the 2.8i V6. In late 1997, Maserati’s factory in Modena was shut down prior to the release of the Mk.4-II Quattroporte.

Body and dimensions

Designed by Marcello Gandini, the Mk.4 Quattroporte featured angular rear wheel arches and had a drag coefficient of 0.31 Cd. The Quattroporte chassis was derived from the four-door Biturbo 430, though the wheelbase was extended by 50 mm. As such, the Mk.4 Quattroporte was 4550 mm long, 1810 mm wide, 1380 mm tall and had a 2650 mm long wheelbase.

Suspension

The Quattroporte had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Quattroporte included a driver’s airbag and ABS.

Features

Standard features for the Mk.4 Quattroporte included 17-inch alloy wheels, six speaker sound system with a six-disc CD changer, climate control air conditioning, power adjustable front seats, Connolly leather seats, leather trim, front fog lights, central locking, power mirrors, power windows and a height adjustable steering wheel.

Review: Maserati Mk.4-II Quattroporte (1998-01)

Overview

Released in May 1998, the Mk.4 Series II (Mk.4-II) or Quattroporte Evoluzione introduced a range of improvements following Ferrari’s acquisition of Maserati. The Mk.4-II Quattroporte introduced over 400 redesigned parts and benefited from improved manufacturing techniques.

Visually, the Mk.4-II Quattroporte could be identified by its new door mirrors, wheel rims and ‘Evoluzione’ badges. Inside, there were new seats, a new dashboard, steering wheel, audio and climate control systems, switchgear, glovebox and carpets, darker briarwood and the analogue clock was replaced by a Maserati trident.

Mechanical changes included the introduction of a new Bosch ABS, BTR automatic transmissions (previously ZF) and ancillary belt drives; the V8 engine was also fitted with redesigned cylinder heads for quieter high-speed running.

Safety equipment and features

Compared to its Mk.4-I predecessor, standard safety equipment was extended to include dual front airbags. Standard features, however, were largely unchanged.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Maserati Mk.4 Quattroporte

Review: Maserati Mk.5-I Quattrorporte (2004-08)

Overview

Released in August 2004, the Maserati Mk.5 Series I (Mk.5-I) Quattroporte was a large, luxury sedan powered by a 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine. The Mk.5-I Quattroporte range initially consisted of a standard (unnamed) variant, the Sport and Executive. In 2006, the range was expanded with the introduction of GT versions of the Sport and Executive variants, with the Sport GT S following in March 2008.

Initially, the Quattroporte was fitted with a six-speed electro-actuated ‘DuoSelect’ transmission with a dry dual-plate clutch. These models started in automatic mode in which the steering wheel gearshift paddles could be used at any time for sequential shifts. However, the ‘manual’ mode could be engaged by pressing the ‘M/A SHIFT’ button on the centre console.

From March 2007, however, the Quattroporte was available with a six-speed ZF 6HP26 automatic transmission which was introduced in response to criticisms of the DuoSelect unit. For models with the ZF automatic transmission, the engine was also revised with a new inlet manifold and airbox, variable valve timing, modified pistons and redesigned cylinder head covers.

The Mk.5 Quattroporte was 5052 mm long, 1895 mm wide, 1438 mm tall and had a 3064 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the Quattroporte had double wishbone suspension front and rear which included Maserati’s ‘Skyhook’ adaptive damping system. The Skyhook system used accelerometers to measure body movement and vary damping resistance to maintain ride comfort; the system also provided selectable ‘Normal’ and Sport’ modes.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, traction control and seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters for the front and outer rear seats.

Brakes

The Quattroporte was fitted with a Brembo braking package which consisted of four ventilated brake discs (measuring 330 mm at the front and 316 mm at the rear) with fixed calipers (four pistons at the front and two pistons at the rear). Furthermore, the Sport and Sport GT variants had cross-drilled brake discs, while the Sport GT S had dual-cast (combination of cast-iron and aluminium) brake discs with monoblock six-piston front calipers.

Standard features

Standard features for the Quattroporte included 18-inch alloy wheels, a ten speaker Bose sound system with CD player, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, satellite navigation with a 6.5-inch screen, power adjustable front and rear seats (with driver’s seat memory settings), Poltrona Frau leather upholstery, cruise control, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, bi-xenon headlights, a refrigerated compartment inside the front arm-rest, a multi-function steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, power-operated rear sun-shade, an electrochromatic rear view mirror, a trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser.

Features: Quattroporte Sport, Sport GT and Sport GT S

The Sport variants were further equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, ventilated and heated front seats with massage function and dynamic regulation of the seat paddings in response to body movements and tyre pressure monitoring.

Beyond this, the Sport GT variants added 20-inch alloy wheels, carbon-fibre interior highlights, aluminium pedal covers and a sports steering wheel; the Sport GT was also distinguished by its faster gearshifts for the DuoSelect transmission, unique suspension settings and exhaust tune. Sport GT variants with the automatic transmission were also fitted with steering wheel gearshift paddles.

The Sport GT S was distinguished by its seven-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels with 245/35 R20 tyres at the front and 295/30 R20 tyres at the rear, upgraded brakes (see above), stiffer single-rate shock absorbers instead of Skyhook active suspension system and lowered suspension (25 mm at the front and 10 mm at the rear). Visually, the Sport GT S could be identified by its black-chrome mesh grille, body-coloured door handles, black window trims and double exhausts. Inside, the dashboard features carbon-fibre trim with aluminium highlights.

Features: Quattroporte Executive and Executive GT

Compared to standard Quattroporte, the Executive variants were fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels, four-zone climate control air conditioning, ventilated and heated front and rear seats with massage functions, wooden pull-down tables, rear side window blinds, tyre pressure monitoring and a rear seat entertainment system including a rear centre screen, TV tuner, DVD player AV input and headphone outlet.

The Executive GT was distinguished by its nine-spoke 19-inch ball-polished alloy wheels, chrome mesh grille, side chrome grille, a wood/leather steering wheel and Alcantara headlining.

Review: Maserati Mk.5-II Quattroporte (2008-12)

Overview

Released in November 2008, the Mk.5 Series II (Mk.5-II) Quattroporte introduced a revised range which consisted of the standard Quattroporte, S and Sport GT S variants. The S and Sport GT S were powered by a more powerful 4.7-litre V8 engine, with the latter fitted with a twin-plate clutch ‘MC-Auto Shift’ transmission. The semi-automatic DuoSelect transmissions from the Mk.5-I Quattroporte range, however, were discontinued.

Visually, the Mk.5-II Quattroporte could be identified by its revised grille with vertical slats, more aggressive front and rear bumpers, updated head- and tail-lights with LEDs, more pronounced side skirts and door mirrors. Inside, there was a new centre console, updated multi-media and navigation systems and two new shades of leather: Marrone Corniola and Sabbia.

In August 2012, changes to the engine management system for the Sport GT S variant resulted in peak power and torque increasing by 8 kW and 20 Nm, respectively.

Features

Compared to its Mk.5-I predecessor, standard features were extended to include an upgraded sound system with MP3-compatibility and auxiliary inputs (3.5mm/USB) and Bluetooth connectivity. However, the standard Quattroporte was fitted with single-rate suspension damping.

Compared to the standard Quattroporte, the S variant added 20-inch polished alloy wheels and the continuously variable Skyhook suspension system.

The Sport GT S was distinguished by its new 20-inch alloy wheels, single-rate dampers with stiffer springs (30 percent stiffer at the front and 10 per cent stiffer at the rear), lowered ride height and pneumatic exhaust valves. Visually, the Sport GT S could be identified by its deeper grille, enlarged air intakes, titanium-surround front light clusters and more aerodynamic door mirrors. Inside, there was ‘TitanTex’ fabric and steering wheel gearshift paddles with chrome detailing.

Quattroporte Sport GT S: MC Sportline package

In November 2010, an MC Sportline package was introduced for the Sport GT S variant which included carbon-fibre interior trim (including the gearshift paddles) and other cosmetic highlights.

Brochure

• Brochure: Maserati Mk.5-II Quattroporte (January 2009)

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Maserati Mk.5 Quattroporte

Recalls: Maserati Mk.5 Quattroporte

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally. 

Recalls: Maserati Mk.5 Quattroporte

• In August 2007, a recall was issued for Maserati Mk.5 Quattroporte models with automatic transmisions due to an error in the electronic software (PRA 2007/9468).
• In January 2009, a recall was issued for Maserati Mk.5 Quattroporte vehicles due to the ball joint fastening nuts of the suspension levers potentially not having been tightened to their correct nominal torque (PRA 2009/10558).
• In March 2009, a recall was issued for Maserati Mk.5 Quattroporte vehicles due to the seatbelt warning chime potentially not sounding if the ‘Stop and Go’ function for the front parking sensors was active (PRA 2009/10686).
• In September 2011, a recall was issued for ‘2009 model year’ Quattroporte vehicles. In these vehicles, the rear tie-rods may have been incorrectly machined during production. Depending on road conditions, continued use of vehicles with non-conforming rear tie-rods could lead to damage of the tie-rod. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2011/12808.
• In November 2012, a recall was issued for Mk.5 Quattroporte vehicles due a defect in the tyre pressure monitoring electronic control unit which could cause it to give a false reading. For a list of the VINs of the affected vehicles, please go toPRA 2012/13358.
• In June 2013, a recall was issued for 2005-08 ‘model year’ Quattroporte vehicles to replace both rear tie-rods because they may have insufficient paint coverage. As a result, the threaded part of the tie-rods may suffer from corrosion, preventing proper toe-in adjustment and potentially affecting the steering and handling of the vehicle. For a list of the affected vehicles by VIN, see PRA 2013/13628.

Problems and faults: Maserati Mk.5 Quattroporte

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

V8 engine

• The camshaft covers and crankshaft oil seal are susceptible to minor oil leaks.
• Rough running may be due to a faulty air flow meter which requires replacement.

DuoSelect transmission

For the Quattroporte’s DuoSelect transmission, the clutch may only last for 45,000 kilometres if used for city driving. Furthermore, the hydraulic gear selectors are susceptible to failure.

Suspension

While the Maserati Quattroporte’s suspension is robust, the suspension bushes wear out over time and are costly to replace.

Tyre wear

The Maserati Quattroporte experiences heavy rear tyre wear; in normal use, the rear tyres may only last 15,000 kilometres.

Recalls: Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte

Maserati Quattroporte: alternator-starter wiring harness replacement

In November 2015, a recall was issued for Maserati M156 (Mk.6) Quattroporte vehicles. In these vehicles, the alternator-starter wiring harness needed to be replaced because the protective sealing cover on the electrical connection of the engine power cable to the starter motor may have been installed the wrong way. If the protective sealing cover was not in its proper position and the engine power cable was not properly secured, the connection could become loose and contact the engine block assembly – this could result in an electrical fire or cause the engine to suddenly stall, posing a safety risk. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2015/15020.

Maserati Quattroporte: accelerator pedal and floor mat

In April 2016, a recall was issued for Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte vehicles because the accelerator pedal may be entrapped by the floor mat in any operating position. If the accelerator pedal were entrapped, it could cause a serious collision that results in injury to vehicle occupants or pedestrians. For the VINs of the recalled Maserati Quattroporte vehicles, please see PRA 2016/15298.

Maserati Quattroporte: screws for rear toe-in adjustment rods

In June 2016, a recall was issued for Maserati M156 Quattroporte vehicles because the screws which secured the rear toe-in adjustment rods may loosen. If this occurred, the correct wheel alignment could be lost – this could cause a loss of vehicle control, posing an accident hazard to the driver and other road users. For the VINs of the recalled Maserati Quattroporte vehicles, please see PRA 2016/15449.

2014 model year Maserati M156 Quattroporte: driver may not engage ‘park’ gear lever position

In February 2017, a recall was issued for ‘2014 model year’ Maserati M156 Quattroporte vehicles. In these vehicles, the resting position of the gearshift lever could cause the driver to believe that the lever was in the ‘Park’ position when it was actually still in a drive gear. The driver may therefore not engage park and this could result in unintended movement of the vehicle, with the potential to cause damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury when the driver attempted to exit the vehicle. For the VINs of the recalled Maserati M156 Quattroporte vehicles, please see PRA 2017/15930.

2014-15 model year Maserati Quattroporte: potential fuel leak

In April 2017, a recall was issued for 2014 and 2015 model year Maserati Quattroporte vehicles. In these vehicles, fuel could leak from a fuel delivery pipe. If fuel leaked onto the road, this could pose a safety hazard to other road users; in the presence of an ignition source, it also posed a fire hazard. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2017/16043.

Maserati M156 Quattroporte GTS: loss of power and engine shut down

In January 2018, a recall was issued for Maserati M156 Quattroporte GTS vehicles. In these vehicles, operation of the low pressure fuel pump could be compromised by an open circuit in the wiring harness. If this occurred, the engine may lose power and could shut down, thereby increasing the risk of a collision. To fix, the low pressure fuel pump resistor was to be replaced. For the VINs of the recalled Maserati M156 Quattroporte vehicles, please see PRA 2018/16559.

2013-15 Maserati Quattroporte: fuel leak and potential engine fire

In February 2019, a recall was issued for Maserati Quattroporte vehicles that had petrol engines and were available for sale in Australia from 1 September 2013 to 1 June 2015. During the manufacturing process, the fuel lines of these vehicles may have been damaged – this could result in a fuel leak and potential engine fire. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2019/17334.

Problems and faults: Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte.

Recalls: Maserati Mk.4 Quattroporte

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Maserati Mk.4 Quattroporte

No recall information is available for the Maserati Mk.4 Quattroporte (1995-01). To search for recalls of Maserati models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Maserati.

Problems and faults: Maserati Mk.4 Quattroporte

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Maserati Mk.4 Quattroporte

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Maserati Mk.4 Quattroporte.

Released in Australia in November 2013, the Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte was an executive sedan. Manufactured in Turin, Italy, the range initially consisted of the Quattroporte GTS, with the Quattroporte S and D variants following in April and June, respectively. Although available with a viscous coupling-based all-wheel drive system in international markets, right-hand drive models were solely available in rear-wheel drive… Read full Maserati Mk.6 Quattroporte review

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Images: Maserati Mk.6-II Quattroporte (2016-on)

Released in Australia in October 2016, the Maserati Mk.6 Series II (Mk.6-II) Quattroporte introduced a revised range that included GranLusso and GranSport variants, revised styling and improved aerodynamics. Furthermore, ‘Start&Stop’ systems were introduced for the petrol engines to reduce fuel consumption. Visually, the Maserati Mk.6-II Quattroporte could be identified by its new front bumper with matte black profile, new front grille ‘inspired’ by the Maserati Alfieri concept car with vertical chrome elements, matte black side skirts and door mirrors, and new rear bumper with matte black extractor.

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Released in August 1995, the Maserati Mk.4 Series I (Mk.4-I) Quattroporte was a large, luxury sedan. Designed by Marcello Gandini, the Mk.4 Quattroporte featured angular rear wheel arches and had a drag coefficient of 0.31 Cd. The Quattroporte chadswas was derived from the four-door Biturbo 430, though the wheelbase was extended by 50 mm to 2650 mm… Read full Maserati Mk.4 Quattroporte review

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Images: Maserati Mk.4-II Quattroporte (1998-01)

Released in May 1998, the Maserati Mk.4 Series II (Mk.4-II) or Quattroporte Evoluzione introduced a range of improvements following Ferrari’s acquisition of Maserati. The Mk.4-II Quattroporte introduced over 400 redesigned parts and benefited from improved manufacturing techniques. The Maserati Mk.4-II Quattroporte could be identified by its new door mirrors, wheel rims and ‘Evoluzione’ badges. Inside, there were new seats, a new dashboard, steering wheel, audio and climate control systems, switchgear, glovebox and carpets, darker briarwood and the analogue clock was replaced by a Maserati trident. Mechanical changes included the introduction of a new Bosch ABS, BTR automatic transmissions (previously ZF) and ancillary belt drives; the V8 engine was also fitted with redesigned cylinder heads for quieter high-speed running.

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Released in August 2004, the Maserati Mk.5 Series I (Mk.5-I) Quattroporte was a large, luxury sedan powered by a 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine. The Mk.5-I Quattroporte range initially consisted of a standard (unnamed) variant, the Sport and Executive. In 2006, the range was expanded with the introduction of GT versions of the Sport and Executive variants, with the Sport GT S following in March 2008… Read full Maserati Mk.5 Quattroporte review

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Images: Maserati Mk.5-II Quattroporte (2008-12)

Released in November 2008, the Maserati Mk.5 Series II (Mk.5-II) Quattroporte introduced a revised range which consisted of the standard Quattroporte, S and Sport GT S variants. The S and Sport GT S were powered by a more powerful 4.7-litre V8 engine, with the latter fitted with a twin-plate clutch ‘MC-Auto Shift’ transmission. The semi-automatic DuoSelect transmissions from the Mk.5-I Quattroporte range, however, were discontinued. The Maserati Mk.5-II Quattroporte could be identified by its revised grille with vertical slats, more aggressive front and rear bumpers, updated head- and tail-lights with LEDs, more pronounced side skirts and door mirrors. Inside, there was a new centre console, updated multi-media and navigation systems and two new shades of leather: Marrone Corniola and Sabbia.

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Top Gear: Aston Martin Rapide, Porsche Panamera and Maserati Quattroporte

Note

Please note these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia.