Have you ever noticed a car with a stylized trident emblem? This memorable symbol immediately stands out among other car logos. But not everyone knows which brand is hidden behind this icon. In this article we will figure out what brand of car uses a trident as a logo, we will reveal the history of its appearance and tell you which models you should pay attention to when purchasing.
The trident symbol is associated with power, dynamism and prestige. It doesn't just decorate the radiator grille - it's part of the identity of the brand, which has been a symbol of luxury and engineering excellence for more than a century. If you see such an emblem on the road, most likely you are looking at a car with a rich past and equally impressive technical characteristics. But how not to confuse it with fakes? And what models are relevant today? The answers are below.
Which car brand uses a trident in its logo?
The trident-shaped emblem belongs to the legendary Italian automaker - Maserati. Founded in 1914 by the Maserati brothers, the brand initially specialized in racing cars and later became a symbol of premium sedans, coupes and SUVs. The trident in the company's logo is inspired by the Neptune Fountain in Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, the city where the brand was founded. I wonder what original version of the emblem included not only the trident, but also the red, white and blue colors symbolizing the flag of Bologna.
Today Maserati is part of the concern Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) and continues to produce cars that combine Italian design with advanced technology. The trident logo can be seen on models such as Ghibli, Quattroporte, Levante and MC20. At the same time, the emblem has undergone several changes over its history, but the trident has remained an unchanged element.
- 🏁 Racing Past: Maserati began as a manufacturer of racing cars, and the trident symbolized speed and victory.
- 🎨 Italian design: All models of the brand are distinguished by elegant lines and luxurious interior trim.
- 🔧 Technical Excellence: Under the hood are often hidden powerful engines developed in conjunction with Ferrari.
The evolution of the Maserati logo: how the trident changed
First version of the logo Maserati appeared in 1920 and was created by the artist Mario Maserati, one of the founding brothers. Then the emblem represented blue oval with a trident in the centersurrounded by red and white waves. This design referenced the mythological Neptune, patron of Bologna, and the local fountain. Over time, the logo was simplified:
- 🔹 1937: An inscription appeared "Maserati" under the trident, and the colors became more contrasting.
- 🔹 1980s: The emblem has acquired a modern minimalistic look - a trident on a blue background without additional elements.
- 🔹 2020: The new redesign made the logo flat, removing volume, but maintaining a recognizable silhouette.
Today the trident Maserati - one of the most recognizable automotive symbols, along with emblems Ferrari or Lamborghini. Interestingly, in some models, for example, in MC20, the logo is made in 3D backlit, which adds a futuristic look to the car. This is the only case when the trident is not just painted onto the grille, but becomes part of the lighting design.
| Year | Changes to the logo | The model where the new design debuted |
|---|---|---|
| 1920 | The first option with an oval shape and waves | Maserati Tipo 26 |
| 1937 | Added inscription "Maserati" under the trident | Maserati 6CM |
| 1980 | Simplified to a minimalistic trident on a blue background | Maserati Biturbo |
| 2020 | Flat design, volume removed | Maserati Ghibli III |
⚠️ Attention: Counterfeit emblems are often found on the secondary market. Maserati, especially for tuning budget cars. The original trident has clear edges, uniform coloring and is often made of metal rather than plastic. When purchasing spare parts, check for a hologram or certificate of authenticity.
On which Maserati models can you see the trident?
The trident is displayed on all cars Maserati, but its design and location may vary depending on the model. For example, on sports coupes (GranTurismo, MC20) the emblem is often highlighted with chrome trim, and on crossovers (Levante, Grecale) it is integrated into the radiator grille. Let's look at the key models where the trident became part of the legend:
- 🚗 Maserati Quattroporte - a flagship sedan, where the emblem is located on a massive grille. In recent generations, the trident is illuminated with LED lamps.
- 🏎️ Maserati MC20 - a supercar with a trident built into the front bumper. Here the logo also performs an aerodynamic function.
- 🚙 Maserati Levante is the brand’s first crossover where the emblem is combined with vertical grille ribs, creating an aggressive look.
- 💨 Maserati Ghibli - a sports sedan in which the trident is located on the hood, emphasizing the dynamic lines of the body.
Feature Maserati The fact is that the trident can be found not only outside, but also inside the cabin. For example, in Quattroporte Trofeo it is embroidered on the headrests of the chairs, and in MC20 projected onto the door when opened. This makes the brand even more exclusive - the owners are literally surrounded by a symbol of luxury.
How to distinguish an original Maserati emblem from a fake?
The original trident has:
1. Metal base (counterfeits are often plastic).
2. Laser engraving on the back with the serial number.
3. Smooth edges without burrs (copies often have uneven lines).
4. Magnetic properties (some versions use magnetic fastening).
If the emblem is glued to double-sided tape, it is 100% fake.
Why is the Maserati trident often confused with other logos?
Despite its uniqueness, the trident Maserati sometimes confused with emblems of other brands. For example, a logo Trident (British motorcycle brand) also contains a trident, but is made in a different style. Another common mistake is the association with emblem of the city of Milan, which depicts a snake with a human head (Viscontian bisquiona), or even with a symbol Alfa Romeo (snake devouring a man). To avoid confusion, note the key differences:
| Brand/Symbol | Differences from the Maserati Trident | Where is it used? |
|---|---|---|
| Trident (motorcycles) | The trident is more "rough", without graceful lines, often with an inscription "Trident" | Motorcycles, equipment |
| Coat of arms of Bologna | The trident is surrounded by a shield with a red cross on a white background | City symbols, souvenirs |
| Alfa Romeo | Snake instead of a trident, inscription "Alfa Romeo" in a circle | Cars, spare parts |
Another funny incident - emblem of the Soviet motorcycle "Izh-Planet", which also depicts a trident (symbol of the sea god). However, it is made in a completely different style - with straight lines and without Italian elegance. If you see a trident on a car but doubt its authenticity, check:
🔍 The trident must be strictly symmetrical, without bending
🔍 Background color - deep blue (counterfeits are often purple or black)
🔍 "Maserati" lettering in serif font
🔍 The emblem is attached with special latches, and not with glue-->
Where else can you find a trident in the auto industry?
Although Maserati is the most famous automaker with a trident in its logo, this symbol is also found in other areas of the automotive industry. For example:
- 🛠️ Dealer centers: Some official dealers Maserati use a stylized trident in the design of salons and advertising materials.
- 🏎️ Racing teams: In the past, the trident adorned the cars of teams sponsored by Maserati, for example, in Formula 1 or GT championships.
- 🎮 Video games: In episodes Gran Turismo or Forza Horizon the trident is associated with premium cars.
- 🔧 Tuning studio: Some studios use the trident in parts design for Maserati (for example, on wheel covers or steering wheel buttons).
Interestingly, in 2021 Maserati has released a limited series of accessories with a trident - from key holders to phone cases. This became part of the brand's strategy to expand merchandising. However real trident is always associated with cars, and not with souvenirs.
⚠️ Attention: If you see a trident on a car of an unknown brand, it could be a sign of a replica or a “restyled kit car.” For example, some owners Kia Stinger or Genesis G70 install emblems Maserati to imitate a premium brand. Such cars can be easily identified by their design inconsistency - for example, a trident on a budget sedan looks out of place.
How to buy a Maserati with a trident: tips for buyers
If you dream of becoming the owner of a car with the legendary trident, it is important to consider several nuances. Firstly, Maserati is a premium brand, so the cost of ownership includes not only the price of the car, but also expensive maintenance. Secondly, on the secondary market there are many offers with a “dark past” - for example, cars after an accident or with mileage twisted by “winders”. Here key points, which are worth paying attention to:
- 📄 History check: Order a report
CarVerticalorAutocheck— it must indicate the number of owners, data on accidents and service records. - 🔧 Original spare parts: Make sure the trident on the grille, wheel covers and steering wheel is original. Counterfeits are often revealed by poor-quality painting.
- 💰 Service cost: Changing the oil in Maserati costs 2–3 times more than mass brands. Check prices in the official service in advance.
- 🔋 Electronics: Check the operation of all systems - Italian cars often have problems with the on-board computer.
If you buy Maserati with mileage, be sure to pay attention to the condition of the engine. Many models are equipped with motors Ferrari (for example, in Quattroporte V8), which require special care. Engines with mileage of more than 100,000 km often require major repairs, the cost of which can exceed 500,000 rubles.
Before purchasing Maserati Check your vehicle for any recalls. For example, in 2022 they recalled Ghibli and Levante due to problems with the fuel system. Information can be found on the website Rospotrebnadzor or on owner forums.
The future of the trident: what new products is Maserati preparing?
Brand Maserati does not stand still - in the coming years we will see several premieres with the familiar trident. Firstly, this all-electric range: electric crossover has already been announced Maserati Grecale Folgore, who will receive a trident with a blue backlight (symbolizing electricity). Secondly, a new supercar is expected to debut in 2026 MC20 Cielo - roadster based MC20, where the emblem will be integrated into the active rear spoiler.
Also Maserati plans the return of the legendary model GranTurismo in a hybrid version. Insiders claim that the trident on this machine will be made in retro design, referencing the 1960s. This is part of the brand's strategy to combine classic style with modern technology.
| Model | Type | Features of the trident | Planned debut |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grecale Folgore | Electric crossover | Blue lighting, minimalistic design | 2026 |
| MC20 Cielo | Supercar roadster | Trident on the spoiler with LED effects | 2026 |
| GranTurismo Hybrid | Hybrid coupe | Retro style, chrome finish | 2026 |
Electric models Maserati will retain the trident as a key design element, but its visual design will be adapted to new technologies (lighting, interactivity).
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the Maserati Trident
🔹 Why did Maserati choose a trident for its logo?
The Trident is inspired by the Neptune Fountain in Bologna, the hometown of the Maserati brothers. This symbol personified strength, speed and connection with the sea (in mythology, Neptune is the god of the seas). In addition, the trident was associated with victory, which was relevant to the racing history of the brand.
🔹 Is it possible to buy the original Maserati emblem separately?
Yes, original emblems are sold at official dealerships or on the website Maserati Store. The cost varies from 5,000 to 20,000 rubles depending on the model and material (metal or plastic with chrome). Caution: on Avito and AliExpress a lot of fakes!
🔹 Which Maserati models are the most reliable in terms of electronics?
According to owner reviews, the fewest problems with electronics are Ghibli (after 2018) and Levante (restyling 2021). But Quattroporte older than 2015 often suffers from multimedia system failures. Before purchasing, check the operation of all sensors and cameras!
🔹 Why does the trident on MC20 glow?
B Maserati MC20 the trident is integrated into the lighting design system. It is illuminated by LED lamps, which are activated when the doors are opened or the engine is started. This is not only an aesthetic solution, but also part of the aerodynamic concept - the lighting improves the visibility of the car at night.
🔹 Is it possible to drive a Maserati in Russia without problems?
Yes, but there are nuances:
- Spare parts are delivered longer than for mass brands (waiting period - 2-4 weeks).
- Fuel must be at least
AI-98(for models with engines Ferrari). - In some regions, problems may arise with service centers - there are only about 10 of them in Russia.