The Maserati Quattroporte VI (M156) S Q4 3.0 V6, produced from 2013 to 2016, represents a significant evolution in Maserati’s flagship sedan. This iteration, falling within the sixth generation of the Quattroporte, aimed to blend Italian luxury with modern performance and technology. The “S Q4” designation indicates a higher performance variant featuring a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, all-wheel drive (Q4), and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Positioned as a mid-to-high-range trim, it offered a step up in power and handling compared to the base model while remaining more accessible than the top-tier GTS variant with its Ferrari-derived V8. The M156 platform marked a departure from previous generations, incorporating Chrysler-derived architecture following Fiat’s acquisition of a controlling stake in Maserati.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Maserati |
| Model | Quattroporte |
| Generation | Quattroporte VI (M156) |
| Type (Engine) | S Q4 3.0 V6 (410 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.2 l/100 km (16.6 US mpg, 19.9 UK mpg, 7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 226 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 283 km/h (175.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 225.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 302.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 410 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 137.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 550 Nm @ 1750-5000 rpm (405.66 lb.-ft. @ 1750-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M156B |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1820 kg (4012.41 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5262 mm (207.17 in.) |
| Width | 1948 mm (76.69 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2100 mm (82.68 in.) |
| Height | 1481 mm (58.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3171 mm (124.84 in.) |
| Front track | 1634 mm (64.33 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1647 mm (64.84 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R19; 275/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Quattroporte S Q4 is the 3.0-liter V6 engine, designated M156B. This engine utilizes a 60-degree V-angle configuration and employs twin turbochargers, one for each bank of cylinders, to deliver increased power and torque. The turbochargers are coupled with an intercooler to manage intake air temperature, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of detonation. Direct fuel injection is employed, precisely metering fuel into the combustion chambers for optimal combustion. The engine produces 410 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a substantial 550 Nm (405.66 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 5000 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF. This transmission offers smooth and quick shifts, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. The Q4 all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Quattroporte S Q4 3.0 V6 delivers a compelling driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4.7-4.9 seconds, making it a genuinely quick sedan. The twin-turbo V6 provides ample power for overtaking and highway cruising. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering responsive shifts in both automatic and manual modes. Compared to the base model Quattroporte, the S Q4 offers noticeably improved acceleration and handling. While not as raw or visceral as the V8-powered GTS, the S Q4 provides a more balanced and accessible performance profile. The all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence in various driving conditions, providing enhanced grip and stability. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel economy, with taller gears for relaxed highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S Q4 trim level came standard with a generous array of features. Interior appointments typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, and a premium audio system. Standard technology included a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Exterior features included 19-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, and a sport-tuned suspension. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot monitoring system. The interior design emphasized Italian craftsmanship and luxury, with high-quality materials and attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The Quattroporte VI (M156) utilizes a steel unibody construction. The S Q4 variant features a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the base model, enhancing handling and reducing body roll. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and control. The steering system is a power-assisted rack-and-pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The Q4 all-wheel-drive system contributes to improved stability and traction, particularly during braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Maserati Quattroporte S Q4 3.0 V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of luxury, performance, and technology. Critics noted the engine’s strong power and torque delivery, as well as the transmission’s smooth and responsive shifts. The all-wheel-drive system was also lauded for its ability to enhance traction and stability. Compared to the base model Quattroporte, the S Q4 offered a significant performance upgrade. Compared to the V8-powered GTS, the S Q4 provided a more accessible price point and slightly better fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the ride quality could be firm on rough roads.
Legacy
The Maserati Quattroporte VI (M156) S Q4 3.0 V6 represents a pivotal moment in Maserati’s history, bridging the gap between traditional Italian luxury and modern automotive technology. The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine proved to be a reliable and capable powerplant. On the used car market, these models generally hold their value well, particularly those with well-documented maintenance histories. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of some mainstream luxury brands, the Quattroporte S Q4 offers a unique combination of style, performance, and Italian flair that continues to appeal to discerning buyers. The M156 platform laid the groundwork for future Maserati models, solidifying the brand’s position as a purveyor of luxury performance sedans.
