Maserati Readies Two New Sports Cars

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV’s Maserati unit plans to launch a pair of new sports cars by the end of 2018 rather than the single model that previous reports had indicated.

The rollout will start next year with a replacement for the current Gran Turismo, which will be followed by a production version of the Alfieri concept car in 2018, Drive.com reports. When the Alfieri was introduced in 2014 it was expected to replace the Gran Turismo, but the plan now includes two distinct models, company officials tell the Australian web site.

The new vehicles will share a platform with the Ghibli and Quattroporte sedans and just-launched Levante crossover vehicle.

The new rear-wheel-drive coupes will be lighter—thanks in part to greater aluminum content—than their all-wheel-drive sedan stablemates to enhance driving characteristics. They also will feature a sportier design with longer hoods, a wider stance and lower rooflines, according to Maserati engineers, who note that the lack of awd allows for greater styling freedom.

With a 2+2 layout, the Alfieri will be aimed at the Porsche 911 and Jaguar F-Type. The larger all-new Gran Turismo will be able to accommodate four people, according to the report. It isn’t clear if there will be a successor to the current Gran Cabrio convertible variant.