Looks like Maserati is getting into some territory usually reserved for the customizers when it unveiled a new special edition at the Bologna Auto Show, the MC Sport Line. Starting with a GranTurismo S, Maserati adds front and rear carbon-fiber spoilers, side skirts with a matte black central panel, carbon fiber mirror housings and exterior door handles, and glossy black 20" wheel rims.

Maserati also added performance enhancing elements. The suspension has been upgraded to stiffer springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bars. There's also new software for Maserati's Stability Program, which the company says allows the driver "more freedom".

Because this comes directly from Maserati everything is done in good taste. This makes it a much harder sell for some of the custom jobs out there. Although this MC Sport Line is based on the GranTurismo S, Maserati says it will bring the Sport Line features to the GranTurismo and then the entire Maserati line-up in 2009.

Press release after the jump.

2009 Maserati MC Sport Line

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  • Model: 2009 Maserati MC Sport Line
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Press release

Maserati has developed a special series of new options named "MC Sport Line", which makes its worldwide debut at the Bologna Motor Show, with new contents that add to Maserati's already extensive range of personalized features on offer. The MC Sport Line is designed to enhance the sporty DNA of Maserati vehicles for those customers who like to display their passion for racing through a dynamic look and a choice of technical solutions that increase the driving fun without compromises.

The name "MC Sport Line" sums up the experience acquired on the track by the Maserati Corse department, whose contribution to the design of the functional components has been invaluable. The world of motor racing also inspired Maserati's designers when it came to styling, hence the extensive use of carbon fiber, very popular among racing enthusiasts thanks to its direct connection with racing competitions.

The GranTurismo S, the ultimate expression of Maserati performance on roads, was the model chosen to present to the public the first proposals of the "MC Sport Line" catalogue, which will be extended in the GranTurismo range and then cover the entire Maserati line-up during the course of 2009.

From early 2009, GranTurismo S customers will not only be able to enhance the sporty look of their vehicle's exterior and interior - but even offer mechanical solutions.

Aerodynamics can be modified thanks to the addition of front and rear carbon-fiber spoilers, which benefit from track tests conducted on the GranTurismo MC Concept; the new aerodynamics not only optimizes the vertical load but gives the car a very distinctive appearance, as do the side skirts with central panel finished in matt black, adding a dynamic edge to the side view.

The sporty look of the exterior can be completed with the mirror housing and door handles, also made from carbon fiber. The same dark shade is reflected in the glossy black 20" wheel rims that match the dark line of the exterior perfectly.

The carbon fiber door sill bearing the words "MC Sport Line" tells you that you are entering a different environment, in which carbon fiber characterizes the door panels, dashboard and central tunnel.

The steering wheel rim is also made from carbon fiber, as are the control stalks for the electro-actuated transmission and the body of the instrument panel, dashboard and door panels, featuring carbon molding. Looking at the central tunnel, carbon fiber dominates the entire section, acting as a backdrop to enhance the brilliance of the chrome. The "MC" pedal block complete with kickplate to the left is machined from a solid aluminium piece.

Under the "skin", the suspension has been stiffened thanks to new, stiffer springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bars; the new suspension set-up is synchronized with a specific Maserati Stability Program software, allowing the driver more freedom. The car is now 10 mm lower than the GranTurismo S, resulting in a performance on the road of the GranTurismo S that is absolutely uncompromising in terms of handling and driving enjoyment.

All the features listed are available either as part of the customization package, following the indications of Maserati designers; or individually, to cater for the personal tastes of each customer.