No doubt, the times are definitely a-changin. As energy efficiency concerns continue to redefine the automotive industry, unlikely automakers are joining the movement as well. Earlier this year, Ferrari confirmed development of a hybrid road car that will use Formula 1 derived HY-KERS (Hybrid Kinetic Energy Recovery System) technology to offer harmony between power and efficiency. In February, Maserati also confirmed an upcoming product that will be offered in diesel guise.
Although diesel offerings are highly successful in Europe, It's a bit of an oddball decision for Maserati as the Italian automaker had always been a high-end luxury marque famous for the manic cacophony bellowing from its high-revving V8 compression-ignition engines. Balancing the need to expand its market and the importance of retaining its loyal customer base, Maserati has come up with quite a creative solution that just might work.
According to Maserati vice-president of product development Roberto Corradi, an upcoming diesel powered Maserati vehicle might be equipped with an artificial engine noise to allow the vehicle to retain some sporting character. Still in its R&D phase, details on Maserati's "voice-changer" are limited but LeftLaneNews.com expects the system should serve similar functions as the Active Sound system found in the current BMW M5, which channels the engine growl from its twin-turbo V8 through the cabin stereo speakers.
Maserati's first diesel-powered model will be a future four-door luxury sedan that will slot below the flagship Quattroporte sedan. Maserati expects this new sedan to compete against the likes of German benchmark BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E Class. Porsche is also expected to spearhead the midsize luxury sedan market with an upcoming four-door, codenamed Porsche "Pajun."
So far, Roberto Corradi refused to comment on the specific diesel engine Maserati plans to utilize, but UK's WhatCar? suggests that the 237-hp 3.0 liter V6 diesel found in the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee is the most promising candidate.
Finally, although it hasn't been confirmed whether the upcoming diesel Maserati will reach North American shores, the odds are highly unlikely.
