«Others build cars. Maserati builds emotions,» said Antonio Commito, Brand Director Maserati and Managing Director of the Binelli Concept Store, as he welcomed a room full of enthusiasts on Thursday evening. Roland Staehler, the brand’s DACH chief, followed with a clear message: «For me there is only one thing to say: Maserati comes from racing. That is the brand’s root.»

Maserati likes to anchor that root in a date: 1926, when the first car bearing the Trident logo — the Tipo 26 — was a race car. In Zurich, the MC12 stood as the later high point of that DNA. Next to it, the MCXtrema represented its most radical modern interpretation: performance without compromise — built strictly for the track, with zero prospect of road homologation.

Inside the MCXtrema cockpit. (Photo: Maserati)

Flying in from Modena, Francesco Italo Senesi of Maserati Corse framed the car succinctly: «It is our maximum expression of technology, performance and design.» The structure is entirely carbon fiber. The braking system is derived from the GT2 Racing version. The safety architecture meets relevant FIA requirements.

62 One-Offs

The MCXtrema is limited to 62 units and conceived as a track-only machine. At its core sits a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 740 CV (540 kW), derived from the Nettuno racing engine. Maserati positions it as the most formidable track car in its history — aimed at collectors who want uncompromising performance without sacrificing Italian craftsmanship and design identity.

The number 62 is deliberate: the MC12 production run consisted of 50 road cars and 12 race cars. All 62 MCXtrema units are dedicated to the circuit. And despite the limited run, each example is effectively a one-off. Through the MCXlusiva program, owners can tailor specifications down to the smallest detail.

Developed in the Simulator — Tuned for the Track

The engineering effort behind the car is extensive. Around 200 hours were spent in the dynamic simulator, complemented by roughly 1,000 hours of virtual analysis. Maserati’s Virtual Analysis team worked alongside powertrain calibration specialists to manage the output of the Nettuno engine and align simulation data with track feedback.

A delivery staged as an event: a customer car in Monza. (Photo: Courtesy)

Aerodynamics are central to the concept. The Centro Stile shaped the design in close coordination with aerodynamic requirements across different track configurations. While the MCXtrema is not intended for GT championships, Maserati says it complies with the relevant FIA safety standards.

An Owners’ Club

A recent delivery in Modena illustrates the level of customization. French-based entrepreneur, nuclear engineer and collector Jacques Sicotte — already owner of an MC12 — added the MCXtrema to his collection of more than 60 rare cars. His example features a “Corse” livery inspired by the MC12 Stradale, personalized with his lucky number 77. The exterior combines matte blue and pearl white, highlighted by a contrasting Trident on the bonnet.

The handover carried symbolic weight. Andrea Bertolini, Maserati’s Chief Test Driver and four-time GT world champion in the MC12, delivered the car personally. He had been involved throughout the MCXtrema’s development, from early engineering stages to simulator refinement. Owners also gain access to MCXperience — a dedicated program offering concierge services, track days and a racing kit developed with Sparco.

The car at the 2025 CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa. (Photo: Maserati)

A Market for Connoisseurs

Speaking to finews, Staehler said enthusiasts will be able to experience the MCXtrema at select events, including “Taxi Labs” at the Hockenheimring in July.

Switzerland, he noted, is naturally an attractive market for such vehicles. «We have already sold several MCXtrema units here,» Staehler said. The price bracket is around €1 million.

Momentum in the Production Line

The discussion also turned to Maserati’s broader model range. Regulatory pressure remains a challenge. CO₂ penalty payments in Switzerland are a concern, particularly as Maserati operates as its own importer. Electric models under the Folgore label account for roughly 10% of sales. «If we reach 20 to 25 percent, that would be excellent,» Staehler said.

Strategically, however, the company remains confident. «The Swiss market makes sense overall.» And further developments are coming: «There will be something new this year — both on the powertrain side and visually.»

Unfiltered Enthusiasm

And then there were the looks around the room — bright eyes, pointed questions, genuine fascination.

The Maserati myth endures. Despite the financial and regulatory headwinds facing Europe’s auto industry, the Italian icon remains a force to be reckoned with.

Maserati MCXtrema at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Photo: Courtesy)