Maserati Reveals V8 Engine and Manual Transmission Return Plans; New Full-Size Sedan to Launch in 2027

Following the launch of the 2027 GranTurismo, GranCabrio, and Grecale models, Maserati executives have unusually signaled multiple future product directions: V8 engine development has entered feasibility assessment, a purely mechanical manual transmission will be offered as a key option under the Bottega Fuoriserie bespoke program, and the long-absent full-size luxury sedan is set to officially return in 2027.

Chief Operating Officer Santo Ficili stated clearly: “Today we possess the world’s best V6 engine—the Nettuno—but the V8 remains within our technical consideration set.” He emphasized that, if launched, V8-powered models would occupy only a tiny share of the lineup—positioned as high-end limited editions rather than mainstream powertrain offerings.

Engineering Director Davide Danesin further confirmed the in-house development path: “We have both the technical expertise and capability. Should we proceed with the V8 project, it will be fully developed internally—not sourced from Ferrari.” This statement underscores Maserati’s commitment to powertrain sovereignty and signals its broader effort to reestablish an independent engineering identity.

Even more intriguing is the planned return of the manual transmission. Cristiano Fiorio, Chief Marketing Officer and head of the Bottega Fuoriserie customization division, noted: “Roughly half of clients in our bespoke programs explicitly request a manual gearbox—a preference closely aligned with their strong preference for internal combustion engines.” He confirmed that once the new Bottega initiative launches, manual transmission will be available as an option: “This isn’t nostalgia—it’s a response to the fundamental value of driving engagement.”

Notably, both the V8 engine and manual transmission are strictly confined to limited-edition, bespoke applications—akin to Aston Martin’s Valour model—with annual production expected to fall well below 100 units. The truly mass-market strategic move, however, is the revival of the full-size luxury sedan. Fiorio stressed: “SUVs dominate the market, yet modern full-size sedans retain an irreplaceable role—they must deliver both dynamic performance and flagship presence.” Development of this new sedan has received formal approval from Stellantis Group and is slated for volume production in 2027. Its name remains unannounced, though industry consensus expects it to succeed the Quattroporte lineage.

Yet significant challenges lie ahead. Maserati currently faces dual pressures on R&D investment and cash flow. Developing a V8 engine and dedicated manual transmission entails far higher costs than conventional upgrades—and the limited-production strategy means unit pricing must rise substantially to recoup investment. Whether Maserati can hold its ground in ICE performance amid the EV tide hinges not only on technical resolve but also on Stellantis Group’s strategic commitment and resource allocation.