Maserati Moves Alfieri Launch to Back Burner

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV’s Maserati unit is delaying the launch of its Alfieri sports car again, Autocar reports.

The 2+2 coupe, which was unveiled in concept form at the 2014 Geneva auto show, originally was expected to debut this year as a replacement for the current Gran Turismo. Those plans reportedly were scrapped earlier this year in favor of launching two distinct models in 2018.

Now Maserati plans to focus on launching the Gran Turismo coupe and convertible over the next two to three years, Giulio Pastore, who heads Maserati’s European operations, tells Autocar. This could push the Alfieri’s launch back to 2020 or 2021, the British enthusiast magazine speculates.

The stylish Alfieri concept already is influencing the design of other Maserati models. The all-new Levante crossover/SUV and Ghibli sedans showcase the Alfieri’s grille and overall shape, exterior design director, Giovanni Ribotta notes. But Pastore says the design of the production model may not be finalized until 2018.