Maserati GranTurismo

One of the undisputed stars of this year's Geneva show is the all-new four-seat coupé from Maserati. The name may remind some of the successful PlayStation game, but Maserati is not playing around with the GranTurismo; it means business.

The rear-wheel drive luxury sports car is powered by an uprated version of the venerable naturally-aspirated 4.2-litre V8. Up to 400bhp will be channelled to the road via either a ZF automatic or the established Cambiocorsa automated manual 'box, fitted with tactile wheel-mounted gearshift paddles. The early availability of the fully-automatic 'box indicates that Maserati has learned from experience with the Quattroporte where it was discovered that many customers prefer a standard automatic.

Although the GranTurismo should be a cracking car to drive, Maserati is keen to point out that it is a comfortable place to spend many a cruising mile in too, with room in the rear for two full-sized adults. The cabin is as beautiful as the exterior is striking too.

Wednesday March 7