The Maserati Quattroporte VI (M156), specifically the 3.8 V8 (350 Hp) Automatic variant, represents a significant evolution in the long lineage of Maserati’s flagship sedan. Produced from 2013 to 2016, this generation marked a departure for the Quattroporte, moving towards a more contemporary design and incorporating advanced technology while retaining the brand’s core values of luxury and performance. This particular model occupied the upper-mid range of the M156 lineup, positioned below the more potent S Q4 variant but offering a compelling blend of power, comfort, and Italian style. It was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a luxurious grand tourer with effortless performance rather than outright track capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Maserati |
| Model | Quattroporte |
| Generation | Quattroporte VI (M156) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V8 (350 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.6 l/100 km (13.4 US mpg, 16.1 UK mpg, 5.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 278 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 307 km/h (190.76 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 184.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 373.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 350 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 710 Nm @ 2250-3500 rpm (523.67 lb.-ft. @ 2250-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M156C |
| Engine displacement | 3798 cm3 (231.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.8 mm (3.18 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.2 l (15 US qt | 12.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5262 mm (207.17 in.) |
| Width | 1948 mm (76.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2100 mm (82.68 in.) |
| Height | 1481 mm (58.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3171 mm (124.84 in.) |
| Front track | 1634 mm (64.33 in.) |
| Rear track | 1647 mm (64.84 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tire size | 245/45 R19; 275/40 R19; 245/40 R20; 285/35 R20; 245/35 R21; 285/30 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20; 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Quattroporte VI 3.8 V8 Automatic lies the M156C engine, a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine is a significant departure from the naturally aspirated V8s traditionally found in Quattroportes. The twin-turbocharging system, utilizing two BorgWarner turbochargers, dramatically increases power and torque output compared to older designs. Direct fuel injection further enhances efficiency and responsiveness. The engine produces 350 horsepower at 6800 rpm and a substantial 523.67 lb-ft of torque between 2250 and 3500 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to the car’s effortless acceleration and relaxed cruising ability. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle. The transmission is an 8-speed automatic, sourced from ZF. This transmission offers smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. It features a traditional torque converter design, prioritizing comfort and refinement over the more aggressive shifts found in dual-clutch transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8 V8 Automatic Quattroporte delivers a distinctly grand touring experience. The abundant torque allows for brisk acceleration in virtually any gear, making overtaking effortless. While not as overtly sporty as the S Q4 variant, the 350 hp model still achieves a 0-60 mph time of around 4.5 seconds. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned for smooth operation, and the gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising. The suspension, featuring double wishbones at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, provides a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling precision. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering a good connection to the road. Compared to manual transmission versions (which were not widely available in the US market), the automatic offers a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.8 V8 Automatic Quattroporte came standard with a high level of equipment, befitting its luxury status. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Optional extras included ventilated front seats, a rear seat entertainment system, upgraded leather options, and various exterior styling enhancements. The interior design emphasized Italian craftsmanship and attention to detail, with high-quality materials and elegant styling cues. The dashboard layout was relatively clean and intuitive, with most controls within easy reach of the driver.
Chassis & Braking
The Quattroporte VI utilizes a steel unibody construction. The suspension system is designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension employs double wishbones, while the rear features an independent multi-link setup. This configuration provides a stable and controlled ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The car’s weight distribution is relatively balanced, contributing to its neutral handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Quattroporte VI 3.8 V8 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and strong performance. However, some critics noted that the twin-turbo V8 lacked the character and sound of traditional Maserati engines. Compared to the S Q4 variant, the 3.8 V8 offered a more relaxed and refined driving experience, while the S Q4 prioritized outright performance. Fuel economy was reasonable for a large luxury sedan, but not exceptional. Reliability proved to be a mixed bag, with some owners reporting issues with the infotainment system and various electronic components.
Legacy
The Maserati Quattroporte VI 3.8 V8 Automatic represents a pivotal moment in the brand’s history. It marked a shift towards more modern technology and a broader appeal. While the M156 generation was relatively short-lived, it laid the foundation for the current generation Quattroporte. On the used car market, these models offer a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a luxurious and stylish Italian sedan. The twin-turbo V8 engine, while potentially requiring more maintenance than older naturally aspirated engines, provides a significant performance boost. With proper care and maintenance, the Quattroporte VI 3.8 V8 Automatic can provide years of enjoyable driving.
