Maserati Chicane

New twist on Maserati coupé
Stylish coupe concept points the way to new Maserati

Auto Express Car Reviews10th February 2008This new Chicane is sure to have Maserati fans in a spin. The curvaceous concept hints at a replace-ment for the ageing Coupé model.

The two-door 2+2 has been designed in Italy by Turin-based studio IED as an entry-level model for Maserati. It’s due to be unveiled at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, and although it won’t be on Mas-erati’s stand, the maker is known to be closely monitoring reactions.

With the arrival of the Gran-Turismo four-seater, slotting into the range below the Quattroporte, Maserati needs a new small car to take over from the Coupé, which made its debut 10 years ago this autumn. Although the Chicane is slightly larger than the current Coupé at 4.4m long, it will still be smaller than its stablemates. As with the other cars in the Italian firm’s range, the Chicane will be front-engined and rear-wheel drive.

It will be powered by Maserati’s familiar 4.2-litre V8, which should enable a top speed of more than 180mph. And if it reaches production, the supercar maker says it will have a more conventional version of the firm’s grille, rather than the body-coloured example of this concept. The headlights will also need modification to pass safety laws.

The finished car is unlikely to have the glass roof because of structural issues. Since there’s little space behind the front wheels, designers have incorporated the three side vents – a signature of the Quattro-porte’s flanks – into the doors.