Whilst there is obvious competition for the Folgore electric version of Maserati’s smaller Grecale SUV, rivals for the electric version of the GranTurismo grand touring coupe are less obvious. Likely rivals are the recently facelifted, and more practical Audi E-Tron GT and Porsche Taycan duo.
Subtle Exterior Changes
Like the Grecale, changes to the outside of the GranTurismo Folgore (meaning lightening in Italian) version are limited. In fact, they follow the changes for the Grecale, with a sealed front grille, unusual three-spoke alloy wheels, and subtle ‘Folgore’ badging on the front wings. The GranTurismo is a modern take on classic Grand Tourer styling and looks great – especially in the Blu Emozione finish of our test car. It couldn’t be anything other than a Maserati – but for those that don’t want to advertise they’re driving an EV, the changes over the ICE models are subtle.
Inside, the Folgore version of the GranTurismo, like the Grecale, feels special. Although, again like the SUV, our Italian spec test car was fitted with their Econyl recycled nylon fibre trim – which doesn’t feel as special as leather trim. The good news is that UK cars will have leather as standard.
Surprising interior space
The big 92.5 kWh battery compromises the boot rather than the interior space of this Maserati. In fact, for a GT, we were surprised at the room. Children and small adults could travel in the back of this Maserati in reasonable comfort – depending on the height of the driver! In the front, the driving position is good, with supportive sports seats. We like the imposing metal gearshift paddles, which operate the three-levels of brake regeneration. Most disappointing considering the price, are the cheap-feeling centre console buttons controlling the gears – which would be more at home in a Fiat 500e. It might be GT, but the GranTurismo Folgore’s boot is disappointingly small at 270 litres.
On top of the buttons for the gears, we have some issues with Maserati’s latest infotainment system. Split over two screens, the larger upper 12.3in screen controls, amongst other things, the infotainment. With the lower 8.1in screen for the drive functions, air conditioning, heated seats, and volume controls. There’s a feeling of Fiat Group product in their operation, as we feel there should be some sort of physical button – rather than the imprecise slider for the volume control.
Three motors
Under this Maserati’s svelte GT body, things get more interesting, as it doesn’t have two, but three 300kW mototrs! There are two at the back that enable torque vectoring, with one at the front and an open differential on this bespoke EV platform, and the resulting performance doesn’t disappoint.
Peak power, torque, and top speed for the Folgore, are rated at 760bhp, 1350Nm, 0-60 acceleration in just 2.7 seconds, and a top speed of 202mph. The Folgore is at the top of the GranTurismo range and is significantly more powerful than the 490hp and 550hp, from the V6 ICE engines on the Modena and Trofeo respectively.
Impressive drive
Like the Grecale, ‘GT’ mode is where it feels happiest – even if power is limited to 80%. Sport mode drops the ride height and is probably best for twisty back roads. While Corsa is best left for the track, as all the safety kit is wound back to the minimum. Overall, this Maserati is particularly impressive to drive. On top of the precise steering, and good brake feel, given how big and heavy it is (2.3 tonnes!), the way this GranTurismo threads itself down country lanes, and hurls itself out of corners defies belief. Then there’s the ride, which was generally supple and comfortable.
Considering the performance, efficiency also seemed reasonable during our drive, but its 275 mile range, seems only just acceptable. Still, its 800-volt charging structure should equal 10-80% charges in less than 20 minutes. Overall, this Maserati is fast, refined and good to drive – although only the a few will be lucky enough to run it as a company car.
Positive: Desirable exterior and interior design, subtle detailing, interior space, performance, good to drive
Negative: Expensive, some interior issues, questionable range
Standard equipment: 20/21in alloy wheels, power driver and passenger heated front seats, parking sensors, power windows and mirrors.
Engines: Electric: 760hp
Equipment grades: Modena, Trofeo, Folgore
Transmission: Single-speed automatic
| Model Maserati GranTurismo Folgore 92kWh | |
| P11D | £179,895 |
| Residual value | 45% |
| Depreciation | £98,230 |
| Fuel | £5,421 |
| Service, maintenance and repair | £4,099 |
| Cost per mile | 102.3p |
| Range | 275 miles |
| CO2 (BIK%) | 0g/km (2%) |
| BIK 20/40% a month | £59/£119 |
| Luggage capacity | 284-litres |
| Battery size/power | 560kWh/751hp |
| Score | 8/10 |
