maserati

Besides the elegant styling, the overall dimensions of the car are the most impactful visual element. Spanning almost five metres in length, the Maserati GranCabrio is one of the largest and most recognizable convertibles available at this time, exceeding both the Continental GTC from Bentley and the large E-Class convertible from Mercedes.

Maserati has quite a rich history of creating good looking cars, and the Maserati GranCabrio is no exception. The seemingly massive front end is sculpted in such a way that it does not seem uneasy on the eye, but rather delicate. A large, flattened oval air intake with the chrome trident proudly displayed in its centre invites the eyes to glance towards it first. A subtle looking slit, just below it, spans the entire length of the front bumper, creating equilibrium, while the circular fog lights have their own dedicated position, slightly receding into it. Moving slightly upwards, the thin and apparently frowning front lamps bite into the front wings. Automatic sensors feel when the ambient light is insufficient and power themselves up, but that can also be done from the cabin. The wings themselves are curved and sit on a higher line than the large, downwards swooping bonnet. A twin ridge that starts from the basis of the windscreen carries on until it almost meets the top of the trident.

The sides of the Maserati GranCabrio are mostly clean looking, without any unnecessary elements. The only things that perturb the organic lines are the triple ventilation holes with chromed margins which reside on the wings, just ahead of the doors. The side sills are sensibly profiled, without being ostentatious and the windscreen is visibly swept back.

The short rear displays the Maserati emblem, the expansive rear lights and the quad exhaust pipes.

The large size of the vehicle can be double-sided, as it’s both a blessing and a curse. First and foremost, it is perhaps among the only convertible that offer sufficient room for four adults, without the hassle of squeezing in, standing with your knees in your face or contorting your body in an awkward manner just so you can ride in a drop-top. Wind insulation, with the roof lowered, is decent enough when the windows are raised, although the passengers might feel a bit drafty, as the rear seats aren’t positioned exactly at the same level as the front ones, but are slightly elevated. This compromise had to be done due to the fact that the addition of the collapsible top required both space and additional reinforcing and the mechanism of the roof, together with the storing space and the torsion wall are located in the back. In turn, this also means that some of the luggage that would have fitted in the coupe will now either have to be left home or placed on the rear seats. In the eventuality of having friends with you, a difficult choice will have to be made.

 Maserati Grancabrio 2014 -5 Point Review

Design

While the exterior of the car is very tastefully designed, with streamlined lines and an organic feel to it, the interior approaches the perfect interior set-up for a car.

Starting from the steering wheel that features the most minimal of controls and with the high quality upholstery, it invites the driver to look and to touch and then do it all again. The large instrument cluster is laid out very logically, with no visual impediment. The central console houses the audio and climate controls, as well as the navigation and it continues its path towards the rear, fusing with the central tunnel, thus dividing the car longitudinally and at the same time separating the seats.

Driving

The only option for the Maserati GranCabrio in terms of motorization is the 4.7 litre V8 petrol engine, mated to a ZF automatic transmission with 6 gears. Paddles are also in place, for manual control over gear changes. The total power output is 450 bhp and it has a rated top speed of 175 mph, with the 0 to 62 run achieved in 5.2 seconds. The ride is smooth, as it is equipped from the factory with aluminium gas dampers with the Skyhook electronic system, which adjusts itself continuously according to road conditions and driving style, in order to prevent the driver and any potential passengers from feeling discomfort. However, due to its heavy construction (it weighs close to 2 tons) the Maserati GranCabrio feels less agile than the exterior advertises, but ultimately it’s a GT car, not a super sport automobile, so it’s mostly forgiven.

Reliability

Italian cars, as opposed to their looks, haven’t had the reputation of being reliable. However, the Maserati GranCabrio has been one of the most reliable vehicles the manufacturer has ever produced, which is a good sign. We would advise you to take advantage of the warranty provided by the factory and do the regular check-ups on time, as the running costs with this car will be high and, if not cared after properly, it will make a dent in your pocket.

Running costs

The base price, in the UK, is precisely £98,340. For this, you will get one of the best looking cars on the road, with an astounding sonorous performance and an unrivaled degree of interior comfort. Consumption figures revolve around the figure of 18.34 mpg, but we reckon a more sporty driving style will make a big difference from officially stated figures, as the engine will become more demanding and it will, invariably, gulp more fuel.

Practicality

The good news is that you can take your three favorite friends on a long ride with you and not sacrifice any of the comfort as you would have in a more conventional, less spacious convertible. However, due to the necessary modifications that had to be done in order to strengthen the core structure of the car, boot space was lost. Measuring a measly 173 litres and being oddly shaped, it doesn’t allow for much luggage to be placed there. Maserati, knowing their guilt, offer specially designed luggage set that will perfectly fit in the back. So no more rear passengers. Decisions, decisions…

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