Maserati GranTurismo 3.0 Modena Review: Subtler, And Better For It

What we like:

Brilliant feel-good factor

Torquey engine

Space and luxury for four

What we dislike:

Can be too subdued for those used to the exuberant predecessor

The previous GranTurismo has made a name for itself in having the Pavarotti of exhaust notes from its Ferrari-derived naturally aspirated V8. It started off with a 4.2-litre V8 engine which was later enlarged to an even louder 4.7-litre V8. Its distinctive hairy-chested sound made it stand out, even if it wasn’t as fast as one’s ears suggested.

Together with the transition to a conventional and reliable ZF torque converter gearbox, better build quality as well as a practical interior that could sit four comfortably, the GranTurismo ushered in an era of Maserati finally being accepted and embraced as a brand that builds brilliant daily driven luxury GTs.

V8 to V6 in the 2024 Maserati GranTurismo Modena

The new GranTurismo builds on from many of these strengths, but one notable change is the switch from the V8 to a twin-turbo “Nettuno” V6. This is a sea change as it questions the maxim of whether the engine maketh the car, in the case of the GranTurismo and its legion of V8 fans.

There is a lot going for the Nettuno V6 though. It is a unique Maserati design, although it does share a bit of architecture with the Ferrari F154 V-8 engine and the Alfa Romeo 690T engine. However, it sufficiently differentiates itself with its own head design, earning itself a name and character of its own. It is the same engine found in the MC20 supercar, although obviously comes in a detuned state here in the entry-level Modena trim, if one could call it that. Nevertheless, it still produces 490 hp and 600 Nm, and it is the latter figure (80Nm more than even the most powerful last generation GranTurismo) that really matters for the long-legged cruising tasks of a GT.

How does the 2024 Maserati GranTurismo Modena look?

Maserati has also sharpened the exterior. From the outside, there are some hints of the MC20 up front, a beautiful sculptured design that’s obviously modern yet classically Maserati at the same time. The side profile with the trident proudly adorned on the C-pillar is more reminiscent of the previous GranTurismo model, but that’s no bad thing as I already think it is one of the most beautiful two-door GTs on the road. Its rear is finished off cleanly with thinner tail lights than before, as well as quad exhausts.

How is the 2024 Maserati GranTurismo Modena’s interior?

Quality on the inside has ramped up several notches. Taking inspiration from the new generation user interface from the Grecale, the GranTurismo is more digital than ever but it works pretty well. There is a digital instrument cluster, an infotainment screen and a quick access screen below it for shortcuts and frequently used tasks. However, changing gears is now executed via a line of buttons which are, unfortunately, not as reactive as they should be. Sometimes I need to click them more than once to engage a gear.

Lovely leather abounds and it is all built with a lovely aroma and texture. I also very much enjoy the Sonus Faber sound system as well as the trademark metal paddle shifters that are cold to the touch. Space for the back seats remains impressive and this is a major selling point if you bring the family out often.

How practical is the 2024 Maserati GranTurismo Modena?

The practicality extends to the boot as well, with 310-litres of space. Interestingly, there’s a tool included within the boot that allows one to escape in case one is trapped inside. It’s the first time I’ve seen something like this, and doesn’t it remind you a little of the movie, The Godfather? I’ll let your imagination run on this one. Equally humorous is the fuel cap, which intentionally or not mentions that the ‘MIL’ may turn on unless it is fully tightened. It’s the Malfunction Indicator Light, of course.

Is the 2024 Maserati GranTurismo Modena good to drive?

Jokes aside, we should definitely now pay attention to how the GranTurismo drives. Maserati knows a thing or two about building GTs and as a result, the GranTurismo is supremely self-confident in the way it carries itself down the road. Comfort is absolutely superb - no pretensions of a hard-riding white knuckle suspension here. It’s all about crossing long distances in cosseting comfort.

Yet, it acquits itself well in the handling department as well, feeling fairly agile and light on its feet with none of the cumbersomeness you may associate with a heavier GT versus an all-out sports car. It’s pretty fun going down a good road, especially to ride on the surfeit of torque from the muscular V6. It really suits the car’s character, and it’s quick even in Modena form - 0-100 km/h is accomplished in 3.9 seconds flat. In this day and age, the V6 sings a pretty tune too; certainly not a crowd turner like the previous V8, but a classy genuine sound that’s unpolluted by augmentation.

Is the 2024 Maserati GranTurismo Modena a winner?

I found myself wanting to drive it more and more because everything worked together as a whole so well. I wanted to spend more time to understand more about the engine, the gearbox, the ride, the sound system, all the while cocooned in the lovely interior. That, to me, is the mark of a great car.

The new GranTurismo offers style and sophistication without needing to shout about it - a new sort of Maserati and I am all for it.

Photos by James Wong

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