German brands may dominate the full-size luxury sedan segment, but there are a few compelling alternatives that aren’t as predictable.

One is Maserati’s Quattroporte, which has just undergone a substantial update for the 2017 model year.

The big sedan, the nameplate’s sixth generation, arrived in its current form as a 2014 model. It was the first model in Maserati’s ongoing brand renaissance and brought a new platform, new design language and new suite of engines built by Ferrari [NYSE:RACE].

The updates bring some tweaks to the styling but more importantly provide more differentiation between the sedan’s sport and luxury trim.

2017 Maserati Quattroporte

2017 Maserati Quattroporte

Buyers can now choose between GranSport and GranLusso trim which add distinct exterior design and unique interiors. The trim is available on V-6-equipped Quattroportes and standard on the V-8.

The GranSport cars get a more aggressive look for their exteriors as well as 21-inch wheels and carbon fiber accents. The GranLusso cars are all about the interiors where a higher level of luxury using exclusive materials and special features in the finest tradition of Italian craftsmanship can be found, including as an option Ermenegildo Zegna’s patented silk fabric for the seats, door liners, sun visors and headliner.

Specifications for the United States are yet to be confirmed, but the powertrains should carry over. With the 2016 Quattroporte, the base model is the Quattroporte S with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 delivering 404 horsepower. Opt for all-wheel drive and the output is bumped to 410 hp. At the top of the range is the Quattroporte GTS, which comes with rear-wheel drive only and a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-8 delivering 523 hp. Both have a standard 8-speed automatic and accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds or less.

You’ll easily spot the updated Quattroporte by its revised grille. It’s more pointed and imposing, and it introduces new vertical chrome elements as well as active grille shutters that improve aerodynamic efficiency. Other distinguishing details of the new Quattroporte are the matte black side skirts and revised side mirror caps.

2017 Maserati Quattroporte

2017 Maserati Quattroporte

The interior has seen more significant changes and includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system, new buttons for the climate control,  a rotary dial for scrolling through some of the infotainment system’s menus, and a special air filter. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is also included.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning the expanded suite of electronic driver aids available on the updated Quattroporte. The list includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop&Go, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Brake Assist and Automated Emergency Braking. A surround-view camera is also available.

The updated Quattroporte has just gone on sale overseas. Sales in the U.S. should start later in the year.

For more on the Maserati Quattroporte, read the in-depth reviews over at The Car Connection.

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