“Nettuno’s power” 2022 Maserati MC20

When they were starting out, Maserati built their name on racing and building exciting sports cars to compete with the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini. But for the last few decades, their sports car ambitions have taken a back seat to producing sporty luxury cars, with their knowledge gained at the track, not really coming into play. 

But in 2020, everything changed. Debuting their new MC20, it was the brand’s first mid-engine full production road car since the Bora and Merak of the 1970s, combining modern styling with a powerful twin-turbocharged “Nettuno” V6 made in Modena, for a package aimed squarely at their Italian and German rivals. Producing 621 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque, the MC20 can sprint from 0-100 in under 3 seconds, and will go on to a top speed of 202 mph. A carbon fiber tub, developed together with Dallara, active aerodynamics system, double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension completes the package of this mid-engined two seater.

On a cold day on the hill of Valdobbiadene region in northern Italy, we find ourselves at the wheel of a stunning “Bianco Audace” example. The interior is simple but nicely finished, with a spot-on driving position that gives you the feeling of being in a true supercar. Rearward visibility is almost zero, but to compensate, a rear view camera is integrated into the mirror and the central console is dominated by the driver mode switch.

In the default GT mode, the ride is extremely comfortable and refined with a light, but accurate, steering that makes you want to head out for a long distance road trip. The 8-speed dual clutch transmission provides smooth gear shifts and the V6 is relatively muted in this setting.

But it’s in Sport or Corsa modes that the “Nettuno” finds its thunderous voice again and punches really hard. With the “damper” button you can keep the angriest powertrain mode with a more soft and comfortable suspension set up.

It’s quick of course, quicker than you would ever need on the road, but it’s not only about the speed. It’s the way the chassis magically turns with great engagement and enjoyment.

After a short ride up on the hills, you can really tell that the MC20 is a car built with driving dynamics in mind where all the elements work together to deliver a truly thrilling driving experience. It’s a car that is sure to put a smile on the face of any driving enthusiast. We can’t wait to try the new open top “Cielo” version, for which we have something cool in mind. Stay tuned!