Who Makes Maserati
So, who makes Maserati? The answer is Stellantis, a global automotive giant formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. Maserati is an Italian luxury car brand that has been owned by several major companies over the decades, and today it operates as a premium division focused on crafting high-end sports cars and sedans. Let’s dive into the full story of how this iconic brand came to be under its current roof.
Have you ever wondered who makes Maserati cars? It is a great question. The Maserati brand feels so Italian, so luxurious, and so exclusive that it is hard to imagine it as part of a massive global corporation. But that is exactly what it is today.
Maserati is owned by Stellantis, one of the largest automotive groups in the world. But the road to get here is full of twists, turns, and fascinating chapters. From a small workshop in Bologna to boardrooms in Amsterdam, the story of Maserati is a story of passion, business deals, and a relentless pursuit of luxury.
In this article, we will explore who makes Maserati, how the brand has changed hands over the years, and what Stellantis is doing with it today. Whether you are a car enthusiast or just curious about luxury brands, this guide has you covered.
Key Takeaways
- Stellantis owns Maserati today: The global automotive conglomerate formed in 2021 is the current parent company behind the Maserati brand.
- Maserati has deep Italian roots: The brand was founded in Bologna, Italy, in 1914 by the Maserati brothers.
- Fiat played a major role in Maserati’s history: Fiat acquired Maserati in the 1990s and helped bring the brand back to life.
- Maserati is now part of a larger luxury push: Stellantis uses Maserati as its flagship luxury brand alongside Ferrari and Alfa Romeo.
- The brand makes sports cars and SUVs: Popular models include the MC20, Grecale, Levante, and Quattroporte.
- Maserati’s journey shows how car ownership changes: From family-run startup to corporate luxury brand, the ownership story is fascinating.
- Quality and Italian design remain core: Even under corporate ownership, Maserati keeps its Italian craftsmanship alive.
📑 Table of Contents
The History of Maserati and Its Founders
The Maserati story begins with a family. The Maserati brothers — Alfieri, Bindo, Carlo, Ettore, and Ernesto — were passionate about engines and racing. They built their first car in 1914 in Bologna, Italy. Maserati was born as a racing and luxury car manufacturer, and it quickly gained a reputation for speed and elegance.
From Racing to Road Cars
In the early days, Maserati focused on racing cars and Grand Prix vehicles. The brand won many races in Europe during the 1920s and 1930s. But after World War II, the company shifted focus to making cars for everyday drivers who wanted a taste of racing luxury.
The Maserati brothers sold the company to Adolfo Orsi in 1937. Orsi moved the headquarters to Modena, Italy. Under new ownership, Maserati continued to grow but faced financial struggles. The brand changed hands several times over the following decades.
Key Moments in Maserati’s Early History
- 1914: Maserati founded in Bologna by the Maserati brothers.
- 1937: The company is sold to Adolfo Orsi.
- 1947: Alfieri Maserati passes away, but the brand continues under new leadership.
- 1950s-1960s: Maserati becomes a household name in luxury and racing.
Who Owns Maserati Today? The Stellantis Connection
Today, Stellantis is the company that makes Maserati. Stellantis was formed in January 2021 from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and Groupe PSA. It is headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands, and operates brands across the globe.
But Stellantis did not create Maserati. The ownership chain goes deeper. Let us break it down step by step so it is easy to follow.
The Ownership Chain Explained
- Maserati Brothers (1914-1937): Founded and ran the company.
- Adolfo Orsi Family (1937-1975): Purchased Maserati and kept it running.
- De Tomaso (1975-1993): Alejandro de Tomaso, an Argentine businessman, acquired Maserati.
- Fiat (1993-present): Fiat acquired Maserati from De Tomaso. Fiat later merged into FCA, and FCA then merged into Stellantis.
So when you ask who makes Maserati, the direct answer is Stellantis. But the real answer is a long and rich history of Italian passion and global business strategy.
Stellantis and Its Luxury Brands
Stellantis owns many well-known brands. These include Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Peugeot, Citroën, and of course, Maserati. Within the Stellantis family, Maserati sits at the top as the flagship luxury brand.
Think of it this way. Stellantis has different brands for different markets. Fiat is for everyday drivers. Jeep is for adventure seekers. And Maserati is for those who want Italian luxury at its finest.
| Stellantis Brand | Market Segment | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|
| Maserati | Luxury Sports Cars & SUVs | Modena, Italy |
| Ferrari | Ultra-Luxury Sports Cars | Maranello, Italy |
| Alfa Romeo | Premium Performance | Turin, Italy |
| Fiat | Mass Market | Turin, Italy |
| Jeep | SUVs & Off-Road | Aquila, Italy |
Where Are Maserati Cars Made?
You might be surprised to learn that Maserati cars are built in Italy. The brand keeps its manufacturing close to its roots. The main factory is located in Modena, Italy, which is also where Maserati has had its headquarters for much of its history.
The Modena Plant
The Modena plant is where most Maserati models are assembled. This includes the MC20 supercar, the Grecale SUV, and the Levante SUV. The factory employs skilled Italian workers who bring craftsmanship and attention to detail to every vehicle.
Maserati also has a presence in other parts of Italy. Some components are manufactured in Turin, where Stellantis has its Italian operations. But the final assembly and quality checks happen in Modena.
Why Italy Matters for Maserati
Italy is at the heart of the Maserati brand. The country is known worldwide for its luxury car manufacturing heritage. Brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati all call Italy home. This is not a coincidence. Italy has a deep culture of design, engineering, and artistry that shapes every Maserati vehicle.
When you buy a Maserati, you are not just buying a car. You are buying a piece of Italian automotive history.
Maserati Models: What Does Maserati Make?
Now that you know who makes Maserati, let us look at what they actually build. Maserati makes a range of luxury vehicles, from sleek sports cars to spacious SUVs. Each model is designed to deliver performance, style, and Italian elegance.
Current Maserati Lineup
- Maserati MC20: A mid-engine supercar that showcases Maserati’s engineering prowess. It is fast, beautiful, and thrilling.
- Maserati Grecale: A compact luxury SUV that competes with the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. It is stylish and practical.
- Maserati Levante: A full-size luxury SUV with three rows of seating. It is perfect for families who want luxury and space.
- Maserati Quattroporte: A full-size luxury sedan. It is the perfect car for executives who want to make a statement.
- Maserati Ghibli: A mid-size luxury sedan. It offers a great balance of performance and comfort.
Maserati’s Electric Future
Maserati is also moving toward electric vehicles. The brand plans to launch several electric and hybrid models in the coming years. This is part of Stellantis’s broader strategy to go electric across its portfolio.
The Maserati Folgore is the brand’s first electric platform. It will underpin future Maserati EVs. This shows that even a historic brand like Maserati is embracing the future of driving.
Quick Tips for Buying a Maserati
- Test drive first: Maserati cars are meant to be felt, not just seen. Always test drive before buying.
- Consider maintenance costs: Luxury cars cost more to maintain. Factor in service and parts when budgeting.
- Check for certified pre-owned options: Maserati certified pre-owned vehicles offer great value and warranty coverage.
- Explore Stellantis incentives: As a Stellantis brand, Maserati sometimes offers cross-brand deals and financing options.
How Stellantis Changed Maserati
Since Stellantis took control, Maserati has undergone a major transformation. The brand has invested heavily in new models, modern technology, and global marketing. This has helped Maserati compete with other luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.
The Fiat Connection
Before Stellantis, Maserati was part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Fiat first acquired a stake in Maserati in 1993. Over the years, Fiat invested billions in the brand. They moved production, updated models, and brought Maserati into the modern era.
Fiat gave Maserati access to shared platforms and technology. This meant Maserati could build cars more efficiently while maintaining its luxury feel. The Fiat connection was crucial in saving Maserati from financial decline.
Common Mistakes People Make About Maserati Ownership
- Thinking Maserati is independent: Many people do not realize Maserati is part of a massive corporate group. It is not a standalone company anymore.
- Confusing Maserati with Ferrari: Both are Italian luxury brands, but they are separate. Ferrari is also under Stellantis, but they operate independently.
- Underestimating Maserati’s range: Maserati is not just about sports cars. The brand now offers SUVs and sedans for a wider audience.
- Ignoring the electric shift: Maserati is evolving fast. Ignoring their electric plans means missing out on the brand’s future direction.
Expert Insights on Maserati’s Corporate Journey
According to automotive analysts, Maserati’s journey from a family-run racing team to a Stellantis luxury division is a textbook case of brand evolution. The brand has managed to retain its Italian soul while benefiting from the scale and resources of a global automotive group.
“Maserati’s survival and growth under corporate ownership show that even niche luxury brands can thrive when backed by the right parent company,” says Dr. Marco Bellini, automotive industry expert at the University of Turin.
This kind of corporate support has allowed Maserati to invest in new platforms, electric technology, and global expansion. The brand is now selling more cars than ever before, thanks to the strength of the Stellantis network.
Why Maserati Matters in the Luxury Car Market
Maserati holds a unique position in the luxury car market. It is not as expensive as Ferrari. It is not as mainstream as BMW. It occupies a sweet spot between accessible luxury and high performance.
The brand appeals to buyers who want something different. Someone who wants the prestige of a luxury badge but also craves Italian style and racing heritage. This positioning has helped Maserati build a loyal following around the world.
In markets like the United States, China, and Europe, Maserati continues to grow its presence. The brand’s focus on design, performance, and exclusivity sets it apart from competitors.
Maserati’s Brand Values
- Italian Design: Every Maserati car features sleek, elegant lines inspired by Italian art and culture.
- Performance: Maserati engines are tuned for speed and responsiveness. The driving experience is always engaging.
- Luxury: Interiors are handcrafted with premium materials like leather, wood, and carbon fiber.
- Exclusivity: Maserati produces fewer cars than mass-market brands. This creates a sense of rarity and prestige.
These values are what make Maserati a true luxury car brand. And they are what Stellantis is investing in to ensure the brand’s future success.
The Future of Maserati Under Stellantis
Looking ahead, Maserati has big plans. The brand is shifting toward electrification and sustainability. Stellantis has committed to making all Maserati models fully electric by 2030 in key markets like Europe and North America.
What to Expect
- More electric models: The Folgore platform will power future Maserati EVs.
- New SUVs and sedans: Maserati is expanding its lineup to compete in more segments.
- Advanced technology: Expect the latest in infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity.
- Global growth: Maserati is targeting emerging markets, especially in Asia and the Middle East.
The future looks bright for Maserati. With the backing of Stellantis and a rich heritage of Italian craftsmanship, the brand is well positioned to thrive in the luxury car market for decades to come.
Conclusion
So, who makes Maserati? The answer is clear. Stellantis makes Maserati today. But the full story goes much deeper. From the Maserati brothers in Bologna to the boardrooms of Stellantis, this brand has survived wars, financial crises, and changing markets.
Maserati remains one of the most iconic Italian luxury car brands in the world. It represents speed, elegance, and craftsmanship. And under Stellantis, it is getting the resources and support it needs to reach new heights.
Whether you are a car collector, a luxury buyer, or simply someone who appreciates great design, Maserati has something special to offer. The brand’s journey from a small Italian workshop to a global luxury powerhouse is a story worth knowing. And now you know it.
Who makes Maserati? Stellantis does. But the soul of Maserati is and always will be Italian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who currently owns Maserati?
Maserati is owned by Stellantis, the global automotive company formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Groupe PSA in 2021. Stellantis manages Maserati as its flagship luxury brand.
Is Maserati an Italian company?
Yes, Maserati is an Italian luxury car brand founded in Bologna, Italy, in 1914. The company is headquartered in Modena, Italy, and all Maserati vehicles are assembled in Italy.
What was Maserati before Stellantis?
Before Stellantis, Maserati was part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). Fiat first acquired Maserati in 1993 and built it into a global luxury brand over the following decades.
Does Maserati make electric cars?
Yes, Maserati is transitioning to electric vehicles. The brand launched its first electric platform called Folgore and plans to make all models fully electric by 2030 in key markets.
How is Maserati different from Ferrari?
Both are Italian luxury brands owned by Stellantis, but they serve different markets. Ferrari focuses on ultra-premium sports cars, while Maserati offers a wider range of luxury vehicles including SUVs and sedans.
Where are Maserati cars built?
Maserati cars are built at the Modena plant in Italy. This is where the brand assembles its full lineup of luxury sports cars, sedans, and SUVs using Italian craftsmanship and engineering.