Maserati is planning a new four-wheel drive crossover model to rival the Porsche Cayenne – and the Italian sports car manufacturer wants Audi’s help to build it!
Maserati is planning a new four-wheel drive crossover model to rival the Porsche Cayenne – and the Italian sports car manufacturer wants Audi’s help to build it!
Due out in 2007, the Maserati will use construction technology and components sourced from the Ingolstadt marque and will be a development of the Kubang concept car shown at last year’s Detroit Motor Show.
Ferrari and Maserati president Luca di Montezemolo has suggested that Audi will supply the aluminium spaceframe, four-wheel drive system, various electronic systems and four-litre V8 diesel plant in a deal described as a ‘far broader co-operation.”
It is possible that these Maseratis could even be sold through Audi dealerships, while the German brand would be supplied with expertise on low-volume production by Fiat Auto in an attempt to increase the competitiveness of the Bentley, Bugatti and Lamborghini brands.
Meanwhile there has been speculation that Maserati will supply Volkswagen, Audi’s parent company, with the new rear-wheel drive platform for an upcoming Passat and Phaeton hybrid model.
