The Maserati GranTurismo Folgore represents a bold leap into the electric era for the iconic Italian brand, fusing hypercar-level performance with the refined comfort of a true grand tourer. This all-electric variant delivers staggering power from three motors while preserving the car’s signature style and luxury. Priced near £200,000, it promises to redefine high-end EV coupes, but does it deliver on its ambitious promises?
Design and Aerodynamics: A Sleek Evolution
Maserati’s designers drew inspiration from the MC20 supercar, incorporating sharp vertical headlights and a prominent 3D Trident grille adapted for EV needs. The Folgore features unique gloss-black accents on splitters, door handles, and a darkened grille base, paired with dark copper badging that highlights its electric identity. These tweaks contribute to a drag coefficient of 0.26, a 7% improvement over petrol models, thanks to a larger ‘cofango’ frontal area and optimized wheel arch inlets to reduce wind noise.
The body measures 4,960mm long, 1,957mm wide, and 1,375mm tall, maintaining classic GT proportions with a long bonnet and compact rear. Diamond-cut gloss-black wheels enhance both aesthetics and efficiency. Despite the battery’s bulk, the Folgore retains an elegant profile that turns heads on any road.
Powertrain and Performance: Unleashing Thunder
At the heart lies a tri-motor setup: one 300kW unit upfront and two at the rear, producing up to 750hp (560kW) and 1,350Nm of torque in boost mode. This all-wheel-drive configuration accelerates from 0-62mph in 2.7 seconds, with a top speed of 202mph—figures that rival hypercars.
Independent rear motors enable precise torque vectoring, directing up to 294kW to a single wheel or 100% power to the rear axle even in rear-drive mode. This system grips fiercely out of corners, minimizing understeer during regen or coasting. Driving modes range from relaxed GT to intense Sport and Track, with launch control available in the latter two. Paddle-controlled regen reaches 0.65g, offering near one-pedal driving, though it’s less aggressive than rivals like the Porsche Taycan.
| Key Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Power | 750hp (560kW boost) / 1,350Nm |
| 0-62mph | 2.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 202mph |
| Battery | 92.5kWh (83kWh usable) |
| Range (WLTP) | 280-450km |
| Charging | 270kW DC (10-80% in 18 mins) |
Chassis Dynamics: Heavyweight Agility
With a kerb weight approaching 2.3 tonnes—465kg more than the V6 version—the Folgore relies on advanced engineering for poise. A T-shaped battery pack achieves perfect 50/50 weight distribution, matching the petrol model’s body roll behavior. Stiffer air springs support the mass, enhancing handling on track while improving road compliance.
In GT mode, throttle response includes a deliberate delay for safety, but Sport mode unleashes instant acceleration. The car feels nimble despite its size, with torque vectoring pulling it through bends effortlessly. However, narrow roads demand caution around obstacles, and some testers noted minor understeer in fast corners or abrupt stability interventions.
- Strengths: Exceptional grip, rapid direction changes, stable high-speed composure.
- Challenges: Noticeable mass in tight spaces, firmer ride in Sport mode.
Interior Refinement: Luxury Meets Sustainability
Slipping into the low-slung cabin reveals extensive seat and wheel adjustments for optimal visibility, though rearward views suffer on bright days due to screen reflections. Materials blend tradition with innovation: sustainable fabrics from reclaimed fishing nets alongside premium leather in blue-white schemes unique to the Folgore.
The dashboard borrows from the Grecale SUV, featuring a crisp digital cluster, intuitive infotainment, and straightforward climate controls. A three-spoke wheel with manettino dial simplifies mode switches, while oversized paddles adjust regen. Rear seats offer genuine 2+2 space with vents and USB ports, plus ample luggage room.
Build quality impresses overall, though some units showed creaks or marking carpets. Technology rivals the best, with robust, user-friendly interfaces.
Battery and Efficiency: Real-World Realities
The 92.5kWh pack supports 270kW charging, hitting 10-80% in 18 minutes. WLTP range spans 280-450km depending on conditions, but heavy-footed driving curtails this amid the car’s 2+ tonne mass. Efficiency lags behind lighter EVs, yet rapid recharging mitigates long-trip concerns.
Rivals and Value: Premium Positioning
The Folgore competes with the Porsche Taycan, Lucid Air, and Aston Martin Rapide, offering superior power and style but at a premium. Its £200k price questions value given range compromises, though Maserati’s heritage and exclusivity appeal to connoisseurs.
| Rival | Power | 0-60mph | Price (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porsche Taycan Turbo S | 938hp | 2.4s | £186k |
| Lucid Air Sapphire | 1,234hp | 1.9s | £250k+ |
| Aston Martin DB12 | 671hp (ICE) | 3.5s | £200k |
Driving Impressions: Thrills and Trade-offs
On open roads, the Folgore excels: silent propulsion builds to ferocious speed, suspension absorbs imperfections adeptly in GT mode. Track work reveals its potential, with vectoring and brakes (despite regen-ABS balancing issues in prototypes) inspiring confidence. Daily usability shines in comfort and tech, but weight affects agility on backroads, and efficiency demands planning.
Future Prospects: Maserati’s EV Ambition
As Maserati’s first full EV after 109 years, the Folgore signals a greener path without sacrificing soul. Ongoing tweaks to suspension, power delivery, and brakes promise refinement. For buyers craving electric luxury with Trident flair, it’s compelling—provided the price aligns with perceived specialness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Maserati GranTurismo Folgore worth £200,000?
It offers unmatched Maserati character and performance, but rivals provide similar speed for less. Ideal for brand loyalists prioritizing style over pure efficiency.
How fast is the Folgore?
0-62mph in 2.7s and 202mph top speed make it hypercar-quick.
What’s the real-world range?
Expect 250-300 miles, varying with driving style and conditions.
Does it have rear seats?
Yes, usable 2+2 accommodation with climate vents and charging ports.
Can it charge quickly?
270kW DC enables 10-80% in 18 minutes at compatible stations.
References
- New Maserati GranTurismo Folgore 2023 review — Auto Express. 2023-07-20. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/maserati/granturismo/359407/new-maserati-granturismo-folgore-2023-review
- 2023 Maserati GranTurismo Folgore review — CarExpert. 2023-09-01. https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-reviews/2023-maserati-granturismo-folgore-review
- Maserati GranTurismo Folgore 2023 Review — Carsales. 2023-08-15. https://www.carsales.com.au/editorial/details/maserati-granturismo-folgore-2023-review-139542/
- 2023 Maserati GranTurismo Folgore (prototype) review — CompleteCar. 2023-01-10. https://www.completecar.ie/car-reviews/article/Maserati/GranTurismo/GranTurismo_Folgore_(2023_prototype)/2109/12193/2023-Maserati-GranTurismo-Folgore-(2023-prototype)-review.html

