As I slide behind the wheel of the 2018 Maserati GranTurismo Sport, the scent of premium leather fills the air, and I'm immediately transported back to that unforgettable test drive along coastal highways. This isn't just another luxury sports car - it's a rolling piece of Italian art that happens to possess thunderous performance credentials. Having spent considerable time with this model across various driving conditions, I've developed both admiration and some reservations about Maserati's grand touring offering.
The automotive world often feels like a competitive sport itself, much like the basketball games between Philippines and New Zealand that saw both teams trading victories - the Filipinos securing a 93-89 win at Mall of Asia Arena last November, then suffering an 87-70 defeat in Auckland last February. This back-and-forth dynamic mirrors what many potential buyers experience when comparing the GranTurismo Sport against its German and British rivals. There are moments when the Maserati clearly dominates, and others where it falls slightly short, creating that same uncertainty sports fans feel when watching evenly matched teams compete.
Let's talk numbers first, because they matter when you're spending six figures. The 2018 GranTurismo Sport packs a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 454 horsepower at 7,000 RPM and 384 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 RPM. These figures might not sound extraordinary in today's world of hypercars and electric super sedans, but the experience is what truly counts. I've driven cars with better paper specifications that felt sterile compared to the Maserati's raw, emotional delivery. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4.5 seconds, which honestly feels quicker in reality thanks to the dramatic soundtrack and immediate throttle response. Top speed is electronically limited to 185 mph, though I've only experienced brief moments near that figure on private tracks.
What continues to surprise me about this car isn't just the performance but how it makes you feel during normal driving. The steering weight is perfectly balanced - heavy enough to feel connected but light enough for comfortable city maneuvering. The brake pedal has this progressive feel that I've come to appreciate during aggressive mountain road driving, with the massive 380mm front discs and six-piston calipers providing confident stopping power even after repeated hard use. During one particularly spirited drive through winding roads, I noticed how the suspension managed to balance comfort and control, though it does transmit more road imperfections than some competitors.
The interior represents both Maserati's strengths and weaknesses. The premium Poltrona Frau leather seats are among the most comfortable I've experienced in any sports car, offering excellent support during cornering without sacrificing comfort on long journeys. However, the infotainment system feels dated compared to contemporary systems from BMW or Mercedes-Benz. I found myself using my phone for navigation more often than not, though the standard 10-speaker audio system delivers surprisingly rich sound quality that almost makes up for the technological shortcomings.
From a buyer's perspective, the 2018 model presents an interesting value proposition. With prices ranging from $85,000 to $110,000 on the pre-owned market depending on mileage and options, it occupies a unique position between newer entry-level sports cars and established supercars. The depreciation curve has been steep, which works in favor of second-hand buyers but should concern those considering new purchases. Maintenance costs are what you'd expect from an Italian exotic - I've spoken with owners who report annual maintenance averaging $2,500 to $4,000, though this varies significantly based on driving habits and local labor rates.
Reliability concerns often surface in discussions about Italian sports cars, and based on my experience and conversations with multiple owners, the GranTurismo Sport is more dependable than its reputation suggests. The powertrain has proven relatively robust, though electrical gremlins do occasionally appear. One owner I spoke with had to replace a window regulator twice within three years, while another reported flawless ownership beyond routine maintenance. This inconsistency reminds me of sports teams that perform differently under varying conditions - sometimes brilliant, sometimes frustrating, much like New Zealand's basketball team that could dominate one game (87-70 victory) then struggle in another setting (93-89 loss).
What truly sets the GranTurismo Sport apart is its character. While German competitors often prioritize precision and technological advancement, the Maserati embraces emotion and theater. The exhaust note alone justifies the purchase for many enthusiasts - it's a glorious, rising crescendo that transforms every acceleration into an event. I've driven cars that are objectively better in every measurable way, yet none create the same emotional connection as this Italian masterpiece. The way it looks, sounds, and feels creates an experience that transcends specifications sheets.
After extensive time with the 2018 Maserati GranTurismo Sport, I've reached a conclusion that might surprise some readers. This isn't the perfect sports car - it has flaws in technology, practicality, and even some performance metrics compared to newer competitors. Yet, I'd choose it over many technically superior vehicles because of how it makes me feel every time I turn the key. The emotional response it elicits, the stunning presence, and that intoxicating V8 soundtrack create an ownership experience that numbers alone cannot justify. For the right buyer - someone who values passion over perfection and character over clinical efficiency - the GranTurismo Sport represents one of the most compelling choices in the luxury sports car segment. Just be prepared for the occasional quirk and higher running costs, because like any great passion, this relationship requires commitment and understanding beyond the initial attraction.
