Maserati CEO spills info on next-generation Quattroporte

The next-generation Quattroporte sedan will be available with four-wheel drive and stop-start technology, according to Maserati’s CEO.

Harald Wester said the new sports saloon, scheduled for 2012, would also weigh about 15% less than the existing model and fuel consumption and CO2 emissions would be improved by approximately 25%.

Wester claims that adding four-wheel drive will help Maserati's flagship model compete with Mercedes, Audi and BMW.

Other methods in the pipeline include economised V6 and V8 petrol engines, in addition to an 8 speed ZF automatic gearbox.