Maserati MCXtrema breaks cover on track

Maser's 730hp monster should reach customers in the summer - now its time for the shakedown

The Maserati MCXtrema promises a lot. There’s the 730hp version of the wild child Nettuno turbo V6, a carbon tub evolved from the very impressive MC20, and the promise of an experience that will ‘break the mould and invent new paradigms’. That’s with quite a few of these circuit-only supercars already out there. Deliveries are due later in the year, so the MCXtrema has now taken to the track for final testing – after 200 hours of sim work and 1,000 hours of virtual analysis - for a real life shakedown.

As expected, the MC looks suitably mad on track, a properly outlandish Italian race car like they used to make. The rear in particular, with the giant diffuser, bazooka exhausts and stunning new light signature, really does look incredible. Bonus points for a snorkel, too. And if the MCXtrema can have this sort of impact on a wet February day at the Autodromo Varano de' Melegari, then imagine it with the sun shining at Monza or similar.

Maserati says the MCXtrema now represents ‘the ultimate in advanced engineering and innovation’. Its chief test driver Andrea Bertolini added: With MCXtrema, we have raised the bar of development even further, working with the track in sight and always bearing in mind the needs of the Maserati customer… The interior has been designed around the driver; we developed a cockpit as a cross between a fighter and a Formula 1 single-seater. MCXtrema is an evolution of the MC20 without type approval for the road: for the Trident’s super sports car par excellence, we had already worked obsessively on its handling and overall architecture, to achieve this ultimate, extreme, and exhilarating version. MCXtrema is a thrill to drive, unlike any other car”. Even with some expected PR fluff, this new Maserati is shaping up very nicely indeed.

Just 62 people will get an EXtrema. With development nearing completion, Maserati has launched its customisation and experience programmes for the car to ensure every customer gets exactly the MCXtrema they desire. ‘MCXclusiva’ sounds like a So Solid Crew member, but is actually Maserati’s name for the customisation offered on this car; it seems like Blue Xtrema might be the only colour choice, though Tech Beast, Corse and Speed Beast packages are available, each bringing ‘ its own identity and racing spirit’. Right. The wheels can be black or grey, the seats blue, black or Ice. If that’s not enough personalisation, buyers can have a BEASTspoke MCXtrema with a number as part of the livery and coloured steering wheel grips.

Alongside MCXclusiva is MCXperience, the name given for all the special services that those fortunate enough to get an Xtrema will be given access to. Think racing clobber designed with Maserati Centro Stile, the special track days, concierge at the circuit, access to tech support and so on. All the good stuff you’d expect as one of the very most special customers.

Giovanni Sgro, Head of Maserati Corse, said of the new car: "MCXtrema is the flagship of Maserati Corse’s racing production, so much more than just a car conceived and designed for the track. Revolving around this racing car synonymous with impeccable power, the highest levels of exclusivity and unprecedented quality, we have built an entire universe, dedicated to 62 of the brand's fans and the most appealing kind of driving: between the curbs of a racetrack. MCXtrema is a sensational car, a daring vehicle that has no trepidation in doing so, made to give shape and power to an unparalleled desire. A true marvel of racing”. Yikes - talk about building up expectations. Still, with the MC20 to build upon and freed from any roadgoing constraints, we’ve got to hope for something extraordinary. Summer can’t come soon enough for the lucky 62.