Maserati added the performance-oriented GranTurismo S for the 2009 model year. The GranTurismo debuted a year earlier, reviving the Italian automaker's competitiveness in the two-door segment.

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The GranTurismo S is powered by a 4.7 liter V8 in place of the regular GT's 4.2 liter unit. Output is 433 horsepower at 7,000 rpm with a torque number of 360 lb-ft at 4,750 rpm, improvements of 28 and 21, respectively. In the S, an advanced MC-Shift dual-clutch transmission replaces the ZF six-speed automatic. The changes result in a top speed for the S of 183 mph, up from 177 mph and the 62 mph arrives from a standstill nearly three-tenths of a second quicker, at 4.93. Due to the transaxle configuration, the weight distribution of the S is more rear-biased, at 53 percent, compared to the regular car's 51 percent rear bias.

New high-power Brembo brakes improve stopping distance and offer higher resistance to fade. Maserati claims the car can stop from 62 mph in less than 115 feet. The system features front brake discs made with dual-cast technology, resulting in pairing up iron and aluminum for better weight, heat transfer properties, and squeezed by aluminum mono-bloc 6-piston calipers. The S rides on unique 20-inch wheels, as opposed to the GT's 19s.

Other exterior visual distinctions between the two are unique side skirts and an integrated spoiler. The dimensions of the GranTurismo and S are virtually identical, though the S is 2.7 inches wider.

Apart from the above changes, the S features conventional suspension set-up, aggressively tuned to reduce roll by 10 percent as compared to the pedestrian GranTurismo. The electronically-adjustable Skyhook suspension found on the weaker car is an option.

The interior is upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara for increased luxury, and covers the more aggressively bolstered seats.