The Maserati Quattroporte has made its long awaited Thai debut at the 21st Thailand International Motor Expo 2004, being held in Bangkok this week.

Although the Quattroporte has previously been shown to potential local customers by the official Ferrari-Maserati importer, in private, this event represents the first time that the Thai public have been able to examine the new super-luxury saloon close-up.

The latest, Pininfarina-designed, Quattroporte perfectly continues the Trident marque's long tradition of creating dashing, sporty and opulent four-door saloons.

With its unmistakable Maserati trademarks, such as the imposing front radiator grille, and its superbly luxurious interior which busts with sophistication, the new car embodies all the principles captured by Frua when he created the first of the legendary Quattroporte line, way back in 1963.
 

With a 400bhp 4.2-litre V8 engine positioned behind the front wheels and coupled up to Maserati's trademark rear transaxle arrangement through a propshaft, a dynamic chassis is able to deliver an uncompromised sporty ride. Top speed comes in at 275km/h.

There is also a practically endless array of personalisation options available, including fifteen bodywork colours, three types of wood (rosewood, mahogany and briarwood), tens shades of leather and a wide range of specific options.

The eagerly-awaited new Quattroporte saloon was first launched a year last September, to widespread public acclaim, at the Frankurt IAA. With Maserati choosing to skip Thailand's other prestigious motor show, which is held during the spring months, this traditional end of year event offered them the chance to publicly showcase the five meter long saloon, to a receptive audience for the first time.

Maserati are experiencing strong interest in their products right across Asia, and the Quattroporte, which already boasts healthy order book, is soon expected to become a popular regional choice for discerning buyers seeking both sportiness and unrivalled luxury.