Maserati AUTHENTICITY Owner's Manual page 50

MASERATI
T EC HNO LO G Y
48
TRANSAXLE DESIGN
The powertrain's design has been optimised for the Transaxle system.
In cars built on this principle, the engine is rigidly connected to the sequential robotic gearbox mounted on the rear axle.
This layout gives the Maserati GranTurismo S weight distribution between the front and rear axles of 47% and 53% respectively, unique in its class.
The Transaxle layout maximises traction when accelerating, the car body is more stable and balanced and behaves more neutrally. This results in higher lateral acceleration on bends and a more
intuitive feel when going into a bend, and also improved braking efficiency due to the reduced weight on the front.
Transaxle design is one of the key factors in achieving the Maserati GranTurismo S's outstanding performance, and is responsible for the car's extraordinary dynamic handling, which provides all
the excitement of a genuine sports car.
THE NEW SEQUENTIAL ROBOTIC GEARBOX
To make full use of all the power of the new Maserati 4.7 litre V8 and ensure the car meets all the driver's expectations, the Maserati GranTurismo S is equipped with a 6-speed sequential robotic
gearbox with twin dry-plate clutch.
This racing-derived solution, suited to higher performance cars, provides easier access to the full rev range, delivers a more immediate gearbox response and compliments the vehicle dynamics.
There are two operating modes: manual and automatic.
Manual mode guarantees a thrilling driving experience; gearshifts occur at the driver's request using racing-style paddles integral with the steering column.
In automatic mode, the system optimises the gear changes subject to the driving environment.
There are six gearbox control modes:
MANUAL NORMAL
The driver chooses the gear he wants to use. For unrestricted driving pleasure, the system does not shift up even at the rev limiter, while the ECU ensures that the gear requested is appropriate to
the current rpm.
MANUAL SPORT
In this mode, activated by pressing the "Sport" button in manual mode, the gearbox control system reduces the time taken to shift between ratios. At the same time, the pneumatic valves in the
exhaust system open to build up more back-pressure, allowing the engine revs to rise faster and reach the maximum power, as well as amplifying the V8's potent roar.