The new, specially designed 4244 cm3 engine, with eight cylinders in a 90° V, is compact and lightweight (only 184 kg), and has the structure of the most advanced racing engine. It is precursor to a new generation of Maserati engines designed to combine performance, torque and efficiency, with emissions in compliance with existing and future regulations. The crankcase and cylinder heads are in aluminum and silicon alloy, and the crankshaft has five main bearings. Timing is by way of two chain-driven overhead camshafts per bank of cylinders and four valves per cylinder. The intake camshafts are equipped with a high-pressure continuous valve timing control system, with a complete activation time of less than 0.15 seconds.

Lubrication is by dry sump with oil and water pumps in a single block. The integrated Bosch ME7.3.2 ignition and injection systems with OBD II (On Board Detection and Diagnosis System) allow for the detection of any operating malfunction, as well as guaranteeing that emissions regulations are respected.

The accelerator is electronically controlled via the "drive by wire" system, while the electronic control unit (ECU) interacts with the other systems via a CAN (Controlled Area Network) line for optimum engine management.

The figures speak for themselves: maximum output of 390 bhp (287 kW) at 7000 rpm, with maximum torque of 46 kgm (451 Nm) at 4500 rpm.