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"Modena, Italy \u2014 There is an elegant symmetry to the 2009 Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic, a stylish Italian grand tourer that through the judicious application of high technology has the heart of a true sporting machine.   Last year, introduced the S version of the , which possesses a more powerful 433-bhp 4.7-liter V-8 (an increase of 33 horses over the base 4.2-liter engine). For 2009, Maserati now offers an automatic version of the package, which is more than a mere gearbox change. The S Automatic also introduces the continuously adjustable &amp;quot;Skyhook&amp;quot; dampers found on the Quattroporte S, and upgraded brakes to give this car a distinct personality over the manual-equipped 4.7 models.   The duality of the GranTurismo S Automatic is best expressed with a simple push of the sport button on the center stack. By engaging the sport mode, the car&amp;#039;s personality changes from a laid-back 2+2 to a performance machine with decidedly more edge. The cues are unmistakable as flaps in the dual exhaust open, allowing the flow to a take a less restricted and more direct path to the tips \u2014 which also results in a throatier exhaust note. Even at idle, the engine picks up a few more revs, letting you know that the GranTurismo is ready to run. Once underway, you immediately notice more heft in the steering, quicker shifts from the gearbox and a tauter ride.   The 6-speed ZF-supplied automatic is one of the best sequential-shift torque-converter transmissions in the world. Unlike other paddle-shift true automatics, the ZF gearbox not only has smooth, quick and positive gear changes, it also provides satisfying engine blips on downshifts. Teaming this setup with the Maserati&amp;#039;s magical exhaust sound results in an experience few will tire of \u2014 sliding the shift lever left into the manual mode and picking your way up and down the gear range with the column-mounted paddles. The GranTurismo S Automatic gives little away to the manual-equipped versions; at 5.0 seconds to 62 mph, it&amp;#039;s only a tenth of a second slower.   On the twisty mountain roads between Modena and Florence, the GranTurismo S Automatic comes alive. Turn-in is crisp and positive thanks to the 20-in. wheels and tires. The 6-piston front disc brakes provide ample stopping power; however, you have to be positive in stabbing the brake pedal \u2014 it is positioned close to the gas pedal to facilitate heel-and-toe operation of the manual versions of the S and you can be caught out by applying both the brake and throttle if you&amp;#039;re not careful.   In addition to offering a spirited driving experience, the GranTurismo is no slouch when it comes to luxurious appointments. The leather covered bucket seats are firm, supportive and extremely comfortable. The fit and finish of the cockpit is first rate with a restrained approach to the use of wood accents.   On sale now with an out-the-door price of $125,900. "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/first-drives/reviews/a14830/2009-maserati-granturismo-s-automatic-1/>