A new report from Autocar shows that the anticipated production version of the Maserati Alfieri coupe will be launched in 2016 and will likely be followed up by a convertible in the following year.

Maserati Alfieri Coupe put into production

In an interview with the magazine, UK marketing director James Cowan said the Alfieri will “sit at the core of the brand.” However, he mentioned that they “don’t expect it to be a big seller” but “to anchor all values that are core to Maserati, and have a halo effect in drawing customers to us.” The model is also said to keep its name when it goes on sale, while the sports coupe will be a core model for the brand, which aims to sell 75 000 cars in 2018.

“While our sales target of 75 000 cars by 2018 is ambitious, it is important that people recognize Maserati’s core values of exclusivity and luxury remain. The Alfieri is the perfect car to do that job – it will be as desirable as a Jaguar F-type or Porsche 911 but considerably more exclusive, and as a result special,” said Cowan.

The Alfieri is further said to be based on a modified platform that underpins Maserati Ghibli and Quattroporte models. The entry-level model will supposedly be equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine delivering 301 kW, while the range-topping variant will have an adapted all-wheel-drive system and will have outputs ranging from 331 kW and 382 kW.

50000 milestone achieved

In addition, the Alfieri is part of a major expansion plan by the company which will see a six-model range and annual production volume of 50 000 units until 2018.

Coinciding with the 100th centennial festivities, just yesterday the company celebrated the milestone of 50 000 units produced at the Avv. Giovanni Agnelli Plant, in Grugliasco.

The 50000th car to roll out was a Quattroporte S Q4 painted in the new Grigio Maratea, with red and black interior upholstery and was built for the US market.