Is the 2018 Maserati GranTurismo Sport Worth Buying Today? Expert Analysis

As I slide behind the wheel of the 2018 Maserati GranTurismo Sport, that distinctive smell of premium Italian leather fills the cabin, and I'm immediately transported back to my first encounter with this automotive masterpiece. Having evaluated luxury sports cars for over fifteen years, I've developed a particular fondness for Maserati's unique blend of performance and elegance. When considering whether this model remains a worthwhile purchase today, I find myself reflecting on an unexpected parallel from basketball - Roger Pogoy's championship mindset that "we cannot afford a bad game" resonates deeply when evaluating this vehicle's enduring appeal.

The 2018 GranTurismo Sport represents the culmination of a design philosophy that began in 2007, yet somehow manages to feel contemporary even today. Under that sculpted hood lies a 4.7-liter Ferrari-derived V8 engine producing 454 horsepower - a specific number that still impresses me every time I recall it. This powerplant delivers that signature Maserati exhaust note that automotive journalists like myself often describe as one of the best in the industry. I've driven countless sports cars, but few produce an auditory experience that genuinely stirs the soul like this one does. The acceleration from 0-60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds remains competitive even by today's standards, though it's worth noting that newer competitors have certainly edged ahead in raw performance metrics.

Where the GranTurismo Sport truly excels, in my professional opinion, is in its ability to deliver what I call "everyday exotic" character. Unlike many pure sports cars that compromise comfort for performance, this Maserati manages to balance both with remarkable finesse. The seats provide exceptional support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable enough for extended journeys. I've personally taken this model on a three-hour coastal drive and emerged feeling refreshed rather than fatigued. The interior craftsmanship showcases traditional Italian artistry with hand-stitched leather surfaces and polished metal accents that still feel special half a decade later. However, I must be honest about the technology interface - the 2018 infotainment system feels dated compared to current systems, with slower response times and less intuitive controls.

Reliability concerns often surface in discussions about older Italian sports cars, and here's where Pogoy's "no bad games" philosophy becomes particularly relevant. From my experience maintaining and tracking these vehicles, the 2018 model represents one of Maserati's more reliable efforts, but it's certainly not without its quirks. The average annual maintenance cost for a GranTurismo Sport of this vintage typically ranges between $2,500 to $4,000 based on my records and industry data, which is substantial but not outrageous for this category. Electrical gremlins can occasionally appear, particularly with the power windows and seat memory functions, but the major mechanical components have proven surprisingly robust. I've documented several examples with over 80,000 miles still running strong with proper maintenance.

Depreciation presents both a challenge and opportunity for potential buyers. The 2018 GranTurismo Sport originally retailed for approximately $145,000, but today you can find well-maintained examples between $65,000 to $85,000 depending on mileage and condition. This represents a significant value proposition for someone seeking Italian exotic character without the six-figure price tag of newer models. From an investment perspective, I believe these cars have largely bottomed out in depreciation and may even begin appreciating in the coming years as internal combustion engines face increasing regulation.

Driving dynamics remain the GranTurismo's strongest suit even today. The naturally aspirated V8 provides linear power delivery that modern turbocharged engines struggle to replicate. The steering offers excellent feedback through corners, and the chassis balance inspires confidence when pushing through winding roads. I recently had the opportunity to compare the 2018 model back-to-back with a 2022 Porsche 911 Carrera, and while the Porsche demonstrated superior technology and outright speed, the Maserati delivered a more emotional, engaging experience that left a lasting impression. There's an analog purity to the driving experience that modern sports cars are gradually losing.

Ownership considerations extend beyond mere performance numbers. The GranTurismo Sport continues to turn heads wherever it goes, generating attention that often surprises owners of much newer sports cars. During my week with the vehicle, I lost count of how many people approached to ask about the car or simply offer compliments. This social currency shouldn't be underestimated when evaluating ownership satisfaction. Additionally, the Maserati community remains active and welcoming, with numerous club events and driving tours that enhance the ownership experience.

When I step back and consider whether the 2018 GranTurismo Sport warrants a purchase today, my answer leans strongly affirmative for the right buyer. It's not the fastest, most technologically advanced, or most practical sports car available at this price point, but it delivers something increasingly rare - genuine character and emotional connection. Much like Pogoy's championship mindset requiring consistent excellence rather than occasional brilliance, the GranTurismo delivers a consistently rewarding experience that transcends specification sheets. For driving enthusiasts who value theater, style, and sensory engagement over lap times and connectivity features, this Maserati remains a compelling proposition that continues to capture hearts years after its introduction. The key, as with any specialized vehicle, is entering ownership with realistic expectations and proper maintenance budgeting. When these conditions are met, the 2018 GranTurismo Sport transforms from merely a used car into a gateway to motoring passion that few modern vehicles can match.