As Antonio Filosa prepares to take the helm as the new CEO of Stellantis this Monday, the automotive world is watching closely, especially with growing speculation that Maserati, the group’s struggling luxury brand, may soon be on the chopping block.
Reports have emerged suggesting that Stellantis might be considering the sale of Maserati as part of a sweeping operational overhaul. On Friday, Reuters cited two sources indicating that the McKinsey consulting group, hired by Stellantis in April, is exploring “possible divestment” scenarios for the Italian marque.
McKinsey’s Role and the Impact of U.S. Tariffs
McKinsey was initially brought on to evaluate how new U.S. tariffs on European imports might impact Maserati and its sibling brand, Alfa Romeo. Both brands have ambitious electrification plans, but neither currently manufactures vehicles in the United States. These tariffs are expected to squeeze already further-tight margins on imported models.
Despite the brewing rumors, a Stellantis spokesperson told The Drive: “Respectfully, Maserati is not for sale.” Yet industry insiders suggest that the automaker is keeping its options open as it faces mounting financial headwinds.
Maserati’s Sales Slump and Financial Woes
Maserati’s performance has been far from stellar. The brand has struggled to gain traction in the market, despite launching new models like the MC20 sports car, GT2 Stradale, and GranCabrio, the latter now the only electric convertible currently available.
During Stellantis’ 2024 earnings call in February, CFO Doug Ostermann revealed the company had written down a $1.59 billion investment in Maserati, largely due to canceled projects before launch. The brand’s 2024 sales plummeted by 58%, with just 11,300 vehicles sold, down sharply from 26,600 the year before. The resulting adjusted operating loss amounted to €260 million ($299 million).
Electric Strategy Hits Roadblocks
Maserati’s electrification efforts have been turbulent. The brand retired its V-8 engine lineup in 2023, committing to an all-electric future. But earlier this year, Maserati abruptly shelved its highly anticipated MC20 Folgore electric supercar, citing low customer demand, despite the vehicle being near production-ready.
This reversal has cast further doubt on Maserati’s roadmap, as consumers remain hesitant about ultra-premium EVs. Coupled with the challenge of higher tariffs and declining sales, Maserati’s long-term viability within Stellantis’ vast portfolio is uncertain.
A New Chapter for Stellantis
The upcoming leadership change adds yet another layer of uncertainty. Antonio Filosa, a Stellantis veteran who previously led Jeep, is stepping in as CEO following Carlos Tavares’ resignation in December. In recent months, Stellantis Chairman John Elkann has overseen day-to-day operations while the board conducted its search.
Filosa will be tasked with making tough strategic decisions across the automaker’s sprawling 14-brand portfolio, and Maserati’s fate could be one of the first major calls on his desk.
For now, Maserati enthusiasts can only wait as the luxury brand’s future remains up in the air.
