Maserati's Jeep Grand Cherokee-based SUV finally took a bow today at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The new Maserati Kubang represents Maserati's first serious attempt at getting a foothold in what Maserati calls, "the sport luxury SUV market."
While the Kubang will be built on the same Michigan assembly line as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the important bits will be made especially for Maserati's new SUV. A new generation of Maserati engines, designed by Paolo Martinelli, the Maserati Powertrain Department Head with over 30 years of experience at both Ferrari and its Formula 1 team, will make their debut under the hood the Kubang. The new engine(s) (we're thinking it's likely going to be a V-8, although a V-12 might fit) will be bolted to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
A bespoke engine and transmission aren't the only special bits in the new Kubang. Maserati said that its new SUV will have Modena-engineered performance brakes, suspension and steering. The Kubang's exterior is also unique. While it shares its grille with the Quattroporte and GranTurismo, and chassis with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, its sloping coupe-like profile and design is otherwise completely unique. We will share more details on the Kubang as we get them