Grand Cherokee + Ferrari?

A new model is set to enter the luxury SUV market, which has been expanding since the debut of the Porsche Cayenne. The Maserati Kubang, whose concept model was unveiled at the 2003 Detroit Motor Show, appears to be heading for production.

Developed in the same vein as the Cayenne, where a sports car manufacturer releases an SUV, the Kubang's base appears to be the Grand Cherokee from Jeep, which now belongs to the Fiat Group, Maserati's parent company.Jeep Grand Cherokee

Maserati states, "The design, engine, suspension, brakes, handling, and exceptional driving performance are pure Maserati, perfectly harmonizing with the sportiness, styling, elegance, luxury, performance, and craftsmanship that are the essence of Maserati."

From left: Lorenzo Ramaciotti, Head of Maserati Style Center; Harald Wester, Maserati CEO; John Elkann, Fiat Vice Chairman; and Sergio Marchionne, Fiat CEO and Maserati President.

The exterior, instantly recognizable as a Maserati, was created by the Maserati Style Center led by Lorenzo Ramaciotti. While details of the engine are not yet public, it was designed in Modena by Paolo Martinelli, who spent nearly 30 years at Ferrari, heading their F1 racing team's engine development, and is now head of Maserati Powertrain. Production is handled by Ferrari in Maranello.

The transmission is an 8-speed torque converter automatic, and the suspension, brakes, and steering were specially developed by Maserati's Product Development department in Modena.

With the Ferrari sound, luxurious Maserati interior, and the off-road capability of the Grand Cherokee, the Maserati Kubang promises to be a compelling vehicle.