Maserati Quattroporte first pictures

Maserati will be marking the half-centenary of the Quattroporte, by unveiling an all-new model at the beginning of 2013. It's hoped that the new car will boost sales in Eastern markets, where the current ageing line-up is struggling to find growth to match rivals such as Jaguar. The new car is expected to use the same drivetrain as the current Granturismo - so expect 4.7-litres and 453bhp.

The new car is expected to feature all-new underpinnings, and thanks to coupe-like styling, and a long wheelbase, should be well over 5 metres in length, rivalling the Jaguar XJ and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. It will be the sporting choice in the luxury saloon sector, fighting not only the British and German mainstays, but also newer coupe-derived four-doors, such as the Porsche Cayenne and Aston Martin Rapide.

Expect the Maserati Quattroporte to sell for between £75,000 and £125,000 when it arrives in the UK late in 2013.