Stunning mean machine

ITALY has given the world so much to be thankful for, beautiful art, stunning architecture, high-end fashion and my Auntie Concetta’s famous lasagne.

However, as hard as it is to admit this, that delicious lasagne may have to be bumped down in signifcance on the list after my day in the 2013 Maserati GranTurismo Sport.

From the moment you lay your eyes on this stunning mean machine, it is a case of amore! Sleek curves, seductive lines, delicate but pronounced contours and its dominant, aggressive front grille literally sends shivers down your spine.

Inside is just as impressive. Upgrades to the front seats and the adoption of a fat-bottomed steering wheel provide more leg-room and, in terms of aesthetics, everything about this model screams luxury. The cream leather seats in the model I drove juxtaposed beautifully with the smooth dark leather dashboard to create a refned ambience.

The 2013 Maserati GranTurismo Sport boasts several creature comforts including Bluetooth hands-free telecommunication, satellite navigation, traffc display MP3 player as well as the standard CD and AM/ FM radio, all of which are accessible via the 7-inch display in the elegant centre stack. The analogue clock just below the dashboard also gives a classy touch to this modern Italian wonder.

The most exciting thing about driving a car like this is when you start the engine for the very frst time. It’s a tender moment between man and machine that culminates with a seductive purr that is smoother than the late Barry White’s voice.

Mama Mia, this is the car I was born to drive!

One of the most unique features is the F1-inspired gearbox. As I looked around for a gearstick I was left wanting. This is because everything is done via the paddle shifters behind the wheel and two buttons marked R and 1. Simply pull the shifters towards you once and you’re in neutral, then select 1 to go forward or R to reverse, simple.

Under the bonnet, is a 4.7-litre V8 engine, which launches this Italian stallion from 0-100kmph in just 4.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 300kmph. I’ve never driven a rocket ship, but I imagine it would feel a lot like being behind the wheel of this car.

Available with both six-speed automatic and electro-actuated transmissions, the GranTurismo Sport also delivers a new generation of the Sport Skyhook active damping system and dual-cast brakes for maximum stopping power.

As I hit the highway, and shifted into the obligatory sport mode the oval exhaust tips generated an even richer sound, which soon turned into a majestic roar. The steering became stiffer and the throttle response became sharper which delivered a more aggressive drive.

Even at speed, this super car is almost faultlessly smooth and, as a result, it’s easy to forget how fast you’re going until you glance at the electronic speedometer.

With all of that horsepower at my disposal it would have been easy to feel out of control if not for the sturdy and responsive steering. Also, because the car sits low to the ground, so does its centre of gravity, which gives you a reassuring feeling as you take a tight corner.

After a lengthy drive I found myself at Bahrain Fort, I pulled over and got out to admire the view … the fort wasn’t bad looking either!

The Maserati GranTurismo Sport, starts from BD 48,300.

For details, call Euro Motors on 17750750.