Classic Driver (Enlarge photo)

11/07/2008 01:06. â€˜S’? A hardcore version of Maserati’s four-door, breathed-upon by the engineers that created the full-on GranTurismo S? You could not be further away from the truth. The Modenese company chose Salzburg to launch the 4.7-litre, upgraded version of the Quattroporte and, having driven it on a route that took in autobahn and rolling Alpine C-road, there’s only one conclusion: it’s the best all-round motor car the company makes.

Leaving the dynamics of the range-topping car to one side, the Quattroporte’s fine lines have been further refined by Pininfarina for 2008. The car is longer (by 45mm, mainly by virtue of a restyled nose and GranTurismo-type grille), has subtle sill mouldings, new front and rear bumpers, wing mirrors and front and rear lights.

It’s the latter that will... // Classic Driver