Maserati Granturismo MC Stradale (2010) news

Maserati will develop another version of its gorgeous Granturismo sports coupe. Due at the 2010 Paris auto show, the MC Stradale will overnight become the fastest, lightest and most powerful car in the Maserati range.

Sales start in spring 2011. It's a harder GT with only two seats and although details are scarce, we know the Granturismo MC Stradale will top 300kph or 186mph.

Maser claims it takes inspiration from the Trofeo Granturismo MC and the race-winning GT4 motorsport models.

It does, doesn't it. Modena says the aero aids add downforce without creating any extra drag.

It uses the engorged V8 from the existing Granturismo S, now rated at 444bhp. Yet fuel consumption is no heavier than on the regular model.

Coinciding with the announcement of the new Porsche 911 Speedster, it's a reminder that innovation in the supercar market is all important. Buyers at this end of the spectrum want the latest toy - which explains the incremental growth of the Maser Granturismo range as well as the swollen 911 family.

By Tim Pollard