Maserati and Porsche are two of the top premium manufacturers around. Both add a sporty edge to all their vehicles and try to keep style in mind.
With one model from each manufacturer, practicality and a sleek shape are combined to create something truly excellent. The four-door Quattroporte and Panamera models both allow for family usability as well as sporty performance and style.
But which one is best? We take a look at each to find out.
Maserati Quattroporte
The sleek Italian offering is one of the coolest saloons around. As the name suggests, this four-door has plenty of premium features to go along with the high-end design. That includes leather upholstery alongside multiple quality materials to make you as comfortable as possible.
But the Quattroporte is impressive under the bonnet too, with three engines on offer. Although there is a turbo 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, the headline acts are based on a Ferrari-sourced V6 petrol. In the Quattroporte and Quattroporte S models, the V6 engine develops either 345bhp or 424bhp – meaning 0-60mph times of 5.3 seconds and 4.8 seconds, as well as a top speed of 166mph or 179mph.
Maserati also ensures that the spacious model comes with a fleet of safety systems. Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, surround view camera, active blind spot assist and forward collision warning are all included. The 530-litre boot is more than ample as well, and starting from £74,320, the Quattroporte is a smart and sporty family car option.
Porsche Panamera
If you’re after a premium family car with plenty of variety, the Porsche Panamera might be for you. With multiple trim combinations for the saloon and Sport Turismo models, you’ll be able to find the right Panamera for you with next to no trouble.
Porsche also offers the model with a series of engine options. The 4S, GTS, Turbo and E-Hybrid models all come with a petrol engine – with the latter paired to an electric motor for zero-emission driving and all-wheel drive. As it’s a Porsche, the Panamera comes with blistering performance – especially in Turbo and E-Hybrid specs.
The most practical offering the estate-like Sport Turismo, which comes with a 520-litre boot that can be extended to 1,390 litres when the rear seats are folded down. Add to that a well-appointed interior, multiple safety systems and high-end infotainment, and you’ve got what is almost the complete package. Prices start from £72,890.
Which one is best?
There’s much to admire about the Quattroporte. It’s great to look at, be in and drive – while also being surprisingly practical, allowing families to enjoy it. And when you add to the package a Ferrari V6 that sounds amazing, it is almost too tempting to miss. So for us, we would favour the Quattroporte over the Panamera but only just! Given the V6’s strong performance, it’s hard not to make it the default choice, and we can see why Maserati expects it to lead UK sales.