Ah, the electric vehicle scene is getting a dash of Italian flair, and Maserati is leading the charge! They’re diving into the electric waters first with an EV version of their Grecale SUV, but the real showstopper? The 2024 GranTurismo Folgore. It’s not just a car; it’s Maserati’s electric dream on wheels, and “Folgore” means lightning in Italian. How cool is that?
Let’s talk speed because the GranTurismo Folgore is all about breathtaking, lightning-quick acceleration. Maserati’s throwing around some serious numbers here, claiming this beauty can hit 60 mph in just 2.7 seconds. After a whirl on Italian roads, believe me, it’s not just talk. It’s so impressive it’s zapped its way onto the 2024 Editors’ Choice list.
Now, how does it deliver such electrifying performance? Through the magic of three electric motors that pump out a combined 818 horsepower. Yeah, you read that right—818 horsepower in an electric Maserati. It shares its sleek design and luxe interior with the new gasoline-powered GranTurismo, but with a heart that’s all electric. And guess what? There might even be a convertible GranCabrio Folgore version hitting the roads soon.
So, It’s an EV?
Yes, indeed! Maserati is stepping boldly into the electric vehicle (EV) arena with the GranTurismo Folgore, marking its first-ever pure electric venture. “Folgore” translates to lightning or thunderbolt—a fitting name for a car that promises to electrify the road. And this is just the beginning. Maserati plans to roll out electric versions for the MC20 supercar and Grecale SUV too. By 2025, every Maserati model will boast an electric sibling, and by 2030, Maserati is waving goodbye to petrol engines altogether.
But There’s a Petrol Alternative Too?
Absolutely! For those not quite ready to jump on the EV bandwagon, the GranTurismo hasn’t forgotten its roots. The combustion engine version is powered by the MC20’s 3.0-litre twin-turbo Nettuno V6, paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox and 4WD. Though it’s adjusted slightly from the MC20, with a wet sump system, it’s no slouch. The entry-level Modena version pushes out 483bhp, while the Trofeo variant ups the ante to 542bhp.
Electric vs. Petrol Power
Now, when it comes to sheer muscle, the electric Folgore brings a thunderous 750bhp to the table, courtesy of three 400bhp motors—two at the rear and one upfront. You might wonder, “Why not 1,200bhp?” Well, it’s all about the balance of power. The inverter and battery set the stage for what’s electrically possible, distributing a hefty 750bhp where it’s most effective. And let me tell you, as you’ll see in the driving review, it’s a system that performs spectacularly.
2024 Maserati Granturismo Folgore Engine
Tri-Electric Muscle: Imagine the sheer force of three electric motors working in unison, channeling up to 818 horsepower directly to the asphalt. This trio isn’t playing around, with two motors commanding the rear wheels and one dedicated to the front, ensuring that all four corners of the GranTurismo Folgore are alive with electric vigor.
Quicker Than Gas: In a head-to-head sprint, the gasoline variants of the GranTurismo, even at their peak with 542 horsepower, might find themselves trailing in the Folgore’s electric wake. This isn’t just about having more horsepower; it’s about how electric power translates to immediate, punch-you-in-the-back acceleration.
Torque-Vectoring Tech: Here’s where it gets really interesting. Maserati’s clever use of this trio allows for a torque-vectoring system that mimics the action of a limited-slip differential. This means smarter, more precise handling, especially when you’re carving through curves or powering out of corners.
2024 Maserati Granturismo Folgore Interior: A Fusion of Luxury and Sustainability
The GranTurismo Folgore stands as a testament to Maserati’s commitment to blending luxury with forward-thinking sustainability. Here’s a dive into the elegant and eco-conscious interior, along with the high-tech features that set this electric coupe apart.
Eco-Luxury Inside: At first glance, the interior of the GranTurismo Folgore exudes the posh elegance you’d expect from Maserati, with a twist—its luxury is woven from sustainability. The upholstery, crafted from recycled fishing nets salvaged from the ocean, speaks volumes about Maserati’s dedication to environmental stewardship without compromising on comfort or style.
Space and Practicality: Sharing its dimensions with the regular GranTurismo, this four-seat coupe doesn’t skimp on passenger or cargo space, standing shoulder to shoulder with rivals like the Aston Martin Vantage and Mercedes-AMG GT. The potential GranCabrio variant, while likely to offer the same luxurious seating, may trade some trunk space for the charm of a folding fabric roof.
Tech that Connects and Entertains
Infotainment Mastery: Central to the dashboard is a 12.3-inch touchscreen, the heart of Maserati’s latest Google-based infotainment system. It’s a sleek, intuitive interface that brings the digital world into your drive with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A secondary 8.8-inch touchscreen beneath it dedicates itself to climate control, ensuring comfort is always at your fingertips.
Immersive Sound: For audiophiles, the Folgore doesn’t hold back. A 19-speaker premium stereo system, fine-tuned by Italian audio experts Sonus Faber, promises an auditory experience as refined as the drive itself. Coupled with an optional head-up display, the GranTurismo Folgore merges performance, luxury, and technology into a cohesive and captivating driving experience.
Powering the Journey: Range, Charging, and Battery Insights
The Heart of the Folgore: A Glimpse into Its Electric Pulse
An 83.0-kWh battery lies at the core of the GranTurismo Folgore, poised to deliver an estimated 240 miles of driving freedom. This figure places it in the competitive ring with other electric sports cars, though real-world testing is eagerly awaited to verify these numbers. Maserati’s commitment to efficiency and performance is further highlighted by the vehicle’s fast-charging capabilities. With a connection of up to 270 kW, drivers can inject about 62 miles (100 km) of range in just 5 minutes, promising minimal downtime and maximum enjoyment.
EPA Estimates and Real-World Testing: The Awaited Verdict
While the EPA’s official nod on fuel economy and range for the GranTurismo Folgore is still on the horizon, anticipation builds. The real test, however, will be on the open road, particularly our 75-mph highway route designed to push the boundaries and reveal the Folgore’s true endurance. This hands-on approach will not only validate the prowess of Maserati’s electric sports car but also offer potential owners a clear picture of what to expect behind the wheel.
Maserati Granturismo Folgore Price
The 2024 Maserati GranTurismo Folgore is expected to start at around $215,000. While the gasoline-powered GranTurismo comes in Modena and Trofeo trims, the Folgore is available in a single, generously-equipped model. This includes sustainable interior materials, a wealth of infotainment and driver-assistance technologies, and outstanding performance.
