In 1975 Maserati launched the Merak SS, an upgraded version of its V6 mid-engine sports car boasting a 30 hp increase over the earlier version. Tweaks included larger carburetors and a higher compression ratio, working together with a 50 Kg reduction in weight. A front grille between the pop-up headlights identified the car, while inside the cabin the Citroën-derived dashboard was replaced by a design drawn from the V8 Bora following production efficiencies.

Some minor chassis revisions further improved the car, which could now reach speeds in excess of 240 km/h. The SS remained the most powerful version of the Merak, although a development prototype (designed with the American market in mind) was tested with a turbo-charged 3 liter engine. The project never reached production.