Maserati's chief engineer wants to bring back the V8: the teams are ready, but it all depends on a single decision

A few weeks after reiterating that The V6 Nettuno represented the future of Maserati, a new line of thinking is emerging internally. This time, it’s Davide Danesin, the brand’s director of engineering, who is bringing up the topic of the V8 again. And his message is clear: technically, bringing back the eight-cylinder engine is possible. All that’s needed now is approval from Stellantis.

In interviews with Australian media outlets Carsales and GoAuto, the technical manager explained that feasibility studies had already been conducted. The current platforms for the GranTurismo, the GranCabrio, and even the Grecale were designed with enough flexibility to accommodate a different powertrain.

A decision that no longer depends on engineers

«Personally, I think the V8 might make a comeback,» says Davide Danesin. According to him, Maserati would have no trouble selling this type of model, even if sales volumes remained limited. For the engineer, the issue is no longer technical but strategic. «The momentum behind the V8 seems to be gaining steam. The decision on whether or not to produce it really depends on the company’s strategy. I think there’s a market for it.» In other words, the teams at Maserati are ready. The ball is now in Stellantis’ court, as it must decide whether such an investment aligns with the brand’s ambitions.

The Nettuno V6 is not in question

However, this move toward the V8 does not mean that Maserati is abandoning the Nettuno. On the contrary, the brand continues to tout its twin-turbo V6 as one of the best engines in its class. A hybrid version is already in development to maintain its performance while meeting future emissions standards.

Danesin also emphasizes one point: a V8 isn’t necessary to go faster. «With the current V6, performance is already excellent. The need for a V8 isn’t about performance, but about having the engine that suits this type of car. It’s more a matter of perception.» A remark that perfectly sums up the debate. Customers aren’t necessarily asking for more power, but rather for the prestige, the sound, and the character associated with an eight-cylinder engine.

Which V8 for Maserati?

One key question remains: which engine should be used? Since the original Ferrari V8 was discontinued in 2024, Maserati no longer offers an eight-cylinder engine in its lineup.

The option of using Stellantis’ Hemi V8s appears to have been quickly ruled out. Davide Danesin explains that these American engines are too large for the brand’s current architectures. Maserati would therefore prefer a compact, European-designed V8. It could be inspired by the 90° architecture of the Nettuno V6, but it would still be a largely new development.

If the project were to get the green light, the first models to be produced would be limited-edition versions of the GranTurismo and GranCabrio. A Grecale V8 remains technically feasible, even if that scenario seems less likely at this point. While awaiting a decision, Maserati is continuing to focus on its strategy centered around the Nettuno V6. But the company’s leadership is gradually shifting its stance. After acknowledging that the V8 was «under consideration,» the chief engineer now confirms that everything is technically ready. It remains to be seen whether Stellantis will agree to restore one of the Trident’s most iconic mechanical hallmarks.