Maserati Evaluating PHEV Models for Next-Generation Quattroporte

• Maserati considers plug-in hybrids; next-gen Quattroporte identified as candidate using Alfa Romeo platform.

• CEO emphasizes clarity in powertrain strategy, cites consumer confusion over PHEV and mild hybrids.

• Platform sharing with Alfa Romeo could accelerate Maserati’s electrified model development, reducing R&D costs.

Maserati is considering adding plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants to its model range, with the next-generation Quattroporte sedan among the models being evaluated.

CEO Santo Ficili emphasized in recent statements the automaker’s intent to widen its powertrain offerings to meet customer demand. He noted a general confusion among consumers about various electrified options, highlighting Maserati’s priority to clarify and diversify available choices.

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Maserati currently offers three types of powertrains across its model line-up: pure-V6 petrol engines, mild-hybrid turbocharged four-cylinder engines, and pure-electric variants. Ficili indicated the addition of plug-in hybrids and expanded mild-hybrid offerings would bridge the gap during Maserati’s transition to full electrification.

Currently, Maserati’s existing vehicle platforms cannot readily support plug-in hybrid powertrains. However, sister-brand Alfa Romeo plans to launch the new Stelvio SUV and Giulia sedan on Stellantis’s flexible STLA Large architecture next year, designed to accommodate internal combustion engine (ICE), battery-electric (EV), and hybrid powertrains.

According to Ficili, Maserati could leverage this platform, enabling synergies between the two Italian luxury brands. Such a strategy could see Maserati’s next-generation Quattroporte sedan based on Alfa Romeo’s Giulia platform and the Maserati Levante SUV sharing the Alfa Stelvio’s architecture.

Originally scheduled to debut as Maserati’s first fully electric sedan in 2023, the seventh-generation Quattroporte was delayed until 2028, reportedly to ensure the consistent high-level performance expected from the brand. Development of the car had reached roughly the halfway point at the time of postponement.

Similarly, using Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio as a basis, Maserati could quickly reintroduce a refreshed Levante SUV. This could help Maserati move more vehicles, increase profitability, and compete more effectively in the luxury SUV segment against rivals such as Porsche’s Cayenne.

Source: Autocar