sponsored blog's

has been through some tough times. But after years of loss, the Italian sports-car maker finally returned to profit in 2007. The comeback was possible because of new models like the Quattroporte Automatic and the brand-new GranTurismo luxury coupe. Demand for Maseratis has been growing, pushing production to an all-time high of about 9000 cars. Maserati CEO Roberto Ronchi talks of increasing output "to 20,000 cars after 2012."

Clearly a third model line is essential for this ambitious plan, and a sporty coupe (or spyder) for younger customers looks to be the likely choice. A Geneva study by IED (Istituto Europeo di Design) has been a good test of the public's reaction. Ronchi says the show car "has the right proportions, but still needs some detail work." It's a clear hint of a more dynamic Maser, competing not only with Aston's V8 Vantage, but also with Porsche's 911. The car should be on the road by 2011 or 2012.

Tech-wise, Maserati will benefit from R&D at and Fiat. Additionally, there is still the Sigma platform developed in cooperation with GM. Denied in the past, it could still be used in the next Alfa Romeo 169 in 2009 (offering both rear- and all-wheel drive).

And there could be a fourth Maser model as well, possibly a sporty small sedan slotted below the Quattroporte to rival the BMW M3 and Lexus IS F. Ronchi wouldn't comment on this, but did talk about an ideal price range: "Future Maseratis are somewhere between 80,000 and 130,000 Euros."

• 
• 
• 
• 
•