2025 Maserati MC20 GT2 Stradale First Drive: Mid-Engine Maser Gets a Sharper Edge

• The GT2 Stradale is the performance-honed version of the Maserati MC20 inspired by the championship-winning MC20 GT2 race car.
• The twin-turbo Nettuno V6 engine gains 10 horsepower while total weight has been reduced by 132 pounds.
• The GT2 Stradale generates 1,100 pounds of downforce, 3.5 times the amount as the standard MC20.

For those keeping track of power figures, you may have noticed that the GT2 Stradale produces just 10 more horsepower than the standard MC20. This modest gain comes solely from improved intake airflow, which is 20% more efficient, and an engine retune — without any changes to the hardware. Maserati’s twin-turbo Nettuno V6, however, remains a marvel of engineering, delivering an impressive 210 hp per liter, one of the highest specific outputs for a six-cylinder engine. Surely it won't be the quickest car of its ilk, but in today's automotive world, it raises an important question: How much power is truly enough? For me, 631 hp is plenty, though I do yearn for a V8 soundtrack.

The Nettuno V6 delivers superb midrange torque, with 538 lb-ft available from 3,000 to 5,500 rpm. While the car feels most responsive when its punchy eight-speed dual-clutch transmission is short-shifted slightly — horsepower peaks about 500 rpm below the 8,000-rpm redline — this strategy admittedly requires a subtle recalibration of instinct. I typically love to rev out any performance-bred engine 'til the steering-wheel shift lights are screaming in my face, but doing this in the GT2 leaves the V6 feeling just a tad flat right before the shift.

The GT2 Stradale also benefits from massively upsized carbon brakes, offered as part of the optional — but arguably indispensable — Performance Pack upgrade. While the flowing layout of Circuito Ascari lacks demanding braking zones, and my back-to-back hot laps were somewhat limited, it’s difficult to fully gauge the ceramic stoppers' endurance. However, I suspect these brakes are built to handle an impressive amount of punishment.

Street credible

If you have zero intention of taking the GT2 Stradale on the track, rest assured, it’s perfectly enjoyable to drive on regular roads without buyer's remorse. Drivers with steep driveways will value the convenience of the standard front-axle lift system, and the digital rearview mirror greatly enhances your ability to identify any Carabinieri behind you.

While the GT2’s stiffer spring rates and retuned suspension accommodate its performance enhancements, the ride is comfortably manageable, especially when ensconced in the standard fixed-back carbon bucket. The bucket seats offer two sizes of cushions to better suit those of either slimmer builds or, let's be honest, the average American. Adjustments are minimal, limited to cushion selection, a fore-and-aft slider, and for the driver’s seat, a tilt function that allows for a more recumbent position. The lack of a tilt adjustment for the passenger seat was omitted for weight reasons, which makes it noticeably less comfortable by comparison.

Maserati redesigned the MC20's center tunnel to prioritize weight reduction, incorporating a new carbon "spider" bracket that positions the primary controls closer to the driver for enhanced accessibility. Lightweight door pulls and carpetless floors, which reveal the carbon monocoque beneath, further contribute to optimizing the car's power-to-weight ratio. Additionally, forged 20-inch center-lock wheels trim 42 pounds, while a titanium exhaust system and GT2 Stradale-specific body panels collectively achieve a total weight savings of 132 pounds.

Striking design meets purpose-driven function

Any Italian exotic worth its carbon should be a feast for the eyes, and the GT2 Stradale certainly delivers. Even better, the new carbon-fiber panels and vents aren’t just for show; every bit is functional. The front splitter and redesigned underbody work in harmony with the expanded rear diffuser and dual rear wings to deliver a staggering 3.5 times more downforce: 1,100 pounds at 174 mph in the most aggressive of three settings. Maserati says this downforce was achieved at the expense of minimal drag, thus only requiring a minimal power bump to preserve a top speed of 200-plus mph.

The front end opening has been enlarged to significantly boost airflow to the radiator and brakes, while the hood vents do double duty, expelling hot air from the radiator while channeling it along the car’s sides to add a bit of downforce before it throws it off the sides, avoiding the rear intakes. The front fender louvers, à la 911 GT3 RS, expel heat and turbulent air from the wheelwells, helping improve stability at speed.

At the rear, the enlarged haunch intakes increase airflow to the engine intakes and intercoolers. Additionally, lower vents just behind the doors direct air to the rear brakes and turbos, ensuring optimal cooling. Every detail of the GT2 Stradale's design has been fine-tuned to deliver flawless precision and performance in all driving scenarios.

Cost of admission

A total of 914 examples of the MC20 GT2 Stradale will be produced, each featuring a special placard marked "1 of 914." This detail pays homage to Maserati’s founding year, 1914. Prices start at $311,995 (including destination), but really, the $13,750 Performance Pack should be considered nonnegotiable. It unlocks the full potential of the GT2 Stradale with the Michelin Cup 2 R semi-slick tires (Bridgestone Potenza Sport tires come standard), the electronic limited-slip differential, front fender louvers and larger Brembo carbon-ceramic performance brakes. You also only gain access to the Corsa Evo drive modes, since the e-LSD is an integral component in that system.

The only other options I’d spec for my build are the exposed carbon trim — showcasing that stunning bodywork instead of painting it black — and the Textured Powder Nude color. This shade, part of Maserati's exclusive Fuoriserie program, is a mesmerizing pinkish bronze matte finish that truly captivates. Of course, the possibilities for personalizing the Stradale are nearly endless and can go as far as your bank account is willing to take you. From bespoke paint options to interior finishes like Alcantara upholstery, carbon-fiber accents and contrast stitching, every detail can be tailored to your taste.

The GT2 Stradale strikes an impressive balance between stunning design and everyday drivability, making it one of the most accessible exotics, price notwithstanding, on the market. Its striking looks will turn heads, while its approachable nature ensures it's not intimidating to drive quickly. However, for those who place ultimate performance above all else, there are other options in this price range that cater more specifically to that priority. Ultimately, the GT2 Stradale stands out as an exotic that's as much about the experience as it is about raw numbers, appealing to those who value a blend of beauty, sophistication and versatility.