The Maserati MC20 supercar has been revealed and it will spearhead a bold multi-billion pound revival plan for the historic Italian marque that includes a return to its performance-focused and racing roots.
Initially being sold with a mid-mounted, twin-turbo V6, the new halo model will also offer electric power in the future. Convertible and motorsport versions are also on the cards.
- The MC20 has a rear-wheel drive layout and can do 0-100kph sprint in 2.9 sec
- It uses Maserati’s Neptune - 3.0-litre, twin-turbo V6 engine making 630hp and 730Nm
- Maserati will bring the MC20 to India in the future
What is the Maserati MC20’s design like?
Following the overhaul of Maserati’s product plan, the MC20 was designed at the firm’s Modena base in around 24 months. It has direct design links to its MC12 predecessor, and Maserati claims that it’s also intended to reflect the brand’s history.
However, the key design focus was on optimising performance. The MC20 was designed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. This enabled the MC20’s designers to minimise the use of aerodynamic appendages, aside from a small downforce-generating rear spoiler.
What engine does the Maserati MC20 use?
In recent years, Maserati has relied heavily on Ferrari technology, in particular for powertrains. But with Ferrari no longer part of the FCA portfolio, Maserati has returned to producing its own engines, and the MC20 arrives with the first powertrain it has produced in-house, in more than 20 years.
Named Nettuno (Neptune), in reference to the Roman god who inspired Maserati’s trident logo, the 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V6, developed at the new Maserati Engine Lab in Modena, produces 630hp at 7500rpm and 730Nm of torque from 3000-5500rpm.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels though an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and a self-locking mechanical limited-slip differential at the rear. An electronic diff is optional.
Five driving modes are on offer: GT, Wet, Sport, Corsa and ESC Off, which shuts down every control function.
What is the Maserati MC20’s performance going to be like?
The MC20 makes extensive use of carbonfibre and other lightweight materials, resulting in a claimed kerb weight of less than 1500kg, giving it a power-to-weight ratio of more than 420hp per tonne. That ratio enables a 0-100kph sprint of quicker than 2.9sec, with 0-200kph taking 8.8sec. Top speed is claimed to exceed 325kph.
Dimensionally, how big is the Maserati MC20?
The MC20 measures in at 4669mm long, 1965mm wide and 1221mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2700mm. The MC20 has a 100-litre boot, which is supplemented by a 50-litre secondary storage compartment at the front.
What are the interiors of the Maserati MC20 like?
The two-seat interior is accessed through butterfly doors that Maserati chose because they give easy access and improve ergonomics.
The cabin takes a minimalist design to reduce distractions for the driver. There’s a 10-inch digital instrument display and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the carbonfibre-covered central console features only the driving mode selector, a wireless smartphone holder, infotainment controls and a small number of other features.
All of the key controls are located on the steering wheel, with dedicated ignition and launch control buttons.
Where will the Maserati MC20 be produced?
The MC20 will be built at Maserati’s historic Viale Ciro Menotti plant in Modena, on a new production line at the site previously used to build the Granturismo and Grancabrio. Maserati is expected to begin deliveries in international markets by the second quarter of 2021.
Are there going to be any other versions of the Maserati MC20?
The Italian carmaker has confirmed that the MC20 has been designed to allow for a convertible variant, which our sister publication, Autocar UK understands is due next year.
Additionally, it also says that the MC20 is designed “for full electric power”, with the full electric variant scheduled to arrive in 2022. Maserati has declined to comment on the performance of the EV, but it is understood that it will offer performance close to the V6 version.
What are Maserati’s plans going forward?
Since FCA sold its stake in Ferrari back in 2016, Maserati has become FCA’s flagship premium performance brand. Hence, FCA bosses have radically revamped the previously announced product plan for Maserati, approving a bold model line-up overhaul with a target to triple sales within three years with 13 new products and updates to three existing cars.
“All new models will be electrified from this point on”, confirmed chief operating officer Davide Grasso at the MC20's unveiling, adding that the brand is developing Level 3 autonomous capability for future cars.
Will the Maserati MC20 come to India?
As we have previously reported, the Maserati MC20 supercar is expected to come to India in the future, as the carmaker is looking to expand its footprint in India. Besides this, Maserati will also bring the Trofeo versions of the Ghibli, Quattroporte and Levante. The carmaker has already begun accepting bookings for these models.
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