Is Maserati Really Done with the V8 Engine?
When the Maserati Quattroporte Grand Finale rolled into the US in 2024, it was billed as the last hurrah for the brand’s iconic V8. For many enthusiasts, that moment felt like the end of a golden era—one defined by the unmistakable growl and effortless power only a V8 can deliver. But is the story really over? Not so fast. Maserati’s engineering chief, Davide Danesin, recently hinted that the V8 might not be gone for good. There’s a chance, however slim, that we could see it return in future models or limited special editions.
What’s Driving Maserati’s Engine Choices Right Now?
The heart of Maserati’s current lineup is the Nettuno V6, an in-house twin-turbocharged engine that’s already making waves. This powerplant isn’t just a stopgap—it’s a statement. With up to 632 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque in the MC20 GT2 Stradale, the Nettuno V6 actually outguns the outgoing Ferrari-sourced V8 in some configurations. That’s no small feat. Klaus Busse, Maserati’s Head of Design, points out that the V6’s compact size is crucial for modern performance cars, especially those with a front mid-engine layout. Simply put, a big V8 just doesn’t fit the way it used to.
Why Did Maserati Phase Out the V8 in the First Place?
Let’s be honest: emissions regulations and the global push toward electrification have put the squeeze on big, thirsty engines. Maserati announced in 2023 that it would retire its Ferrari-sourced V8, aiming to transition to an all-electric lineup by 2030. But the road to electrification hasn’t been as smooth as automakers expected. EV demand is softer than predicted, and regulatory uncertainty is making long-term planning tricky. Even Stellantis, Maserati’s parent company, has had to rethink its strategy—recently bringing back the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 in the Ram 1500 after previously dropping it. If that’s not a sign of changing winds, what is?
Could a V8 Return in Future Maserati Models?
Here’s where things get interesting. Danesin admits that while the V6 is Maserati’s current focus, the company hasn’t slammed the door on V8s entirely. There’s still a market for them—especially among collectors and die-hard enthusiasts. The most likely scenario? A V8 could make a comeback in a limited-run exotic or a redesigned Levante or Quattroporte. Both models were originally slated to go all-electric, but delays and tepid EV sales have left their futures wide open. The catch: with the Ferrari partnership over and emissions rules tightening, finding the right V8 (one that fits both physically and legally) is a real challenge.
Does the V6 Really Outperform the V8?
Surprisingly, yes—at least in some key areas. The Nettuno V6 is lighter, more compact, and boasts a higher power density than the old V8. In the GranTurismo and GranCabrio, the V6’s smaller footprint allows for better weight distribution and sharper handling. Busse even argues that a V8 would actually lower performance in these models, despite its cachet. It’s a classic case of substance over style. Sure, the V8 has bragging rights, but the V6 delivers the goods where it counts.
How Are Market Trends and Regulations Shaping Maserati’s Decisions?
The luxury performance market is in flux. On one hand, there’s undeniable nostalgia and demand for V8s—just look at how brands like Aston Martin and Mercedes-AMG are clinging to theirs. On the other, governments are tightening emissions standards and pushing for electrification. Maserati is caught in the middle, trying to balance heritage with innovation. The recent return of V8s in other Stellantis brands suggests that executives are watching consumer sentiment closely. If the market speaks loudly enough, don’t be shocked if Maserati answers with a V8 encore.
What’s Next for Maserati’s Powertrains?
For now, expect the Nettuno V6 to remain the backbone of Maserati’s combustion lineup, especially in the GranTurismo, GranCabrio, and MC20. But the possibility of a V8 revival—perhaps as a swan song for the internal combustion era—remains on the table. The real wildcard is how quickly EV adoption accelerates and whether regulatory pressures ease or intensify. Maserati’s next move will likely hinge on these external factors as much as on internal engineering prowess.
The big takeaway? Maserati’s future isn’t about clinging to the past or chasing trends—it’s about making smart, flexible choices. Whether you’re a V8 devotee or a fan of cutting-edge V6 tech, the brand’s willingness to adapt means there’s still plenty to get excited about. Start paying attention to those subtle shifts in the lineup, and you might just catch the next big thing before everyone else does.