Maserati has gone from zero to delectable in five seconds flat with its new coupe, the GranTurismo.

Three years after launching the Quattroporte saloon (Quattroporte means four doors in Italian), the Ferrari-owned carmaker will be unveiling the two-door version at next month's Geneva motor show. And the Pininfarina-styled car is a knockout.

Like the Quattroporte, the GranTurismo has a 4,244 cc V8 engine. This naturally aspirated unit directs 405 hp to the rear wheels via the new six-speed automatic transmission from leading gearbox manufacturer ZF.

The transmission's adaptive control system adjusts the gear-shifting mode to the style of driving and the driving conditions. Front/rear weight distribution is 49/51 for neutral balance and handling.

The more hardcore six-speed DuoSelect automated manual will be made available later. This is in keeping with the marque's philosophy of providing for two alternative driving styles - sporty luxury (automatic), and extreme sportiness (DuoSelect).

There is no word yet on the pricing here because agent Hong Seh Motors has not decided on the full list of specifications. But an indicative price is said to be around that of the Quattroporte Automatic, which currently costs $408,000.

The Maserati GranTurismo is expected to arrive sometime in the third quarter. We can't wait.