Maserati recently revealed the GranCabrio, a convertible version of the GranTurismo, its award-winning cousin and 100% made in Italy.

When launched, the GranCabrio will be available in Trofeo trim level and features the same 6-cylinder 3.0-litre twin turbo V6 Nuttuno engine which gives 542hp and 480 ft lbs of torque. Maserati says it gives “extraordinary performance and optimal comfort to travel long distances.”

Of course, the one glaringly obvious difference from the GranTurismo is that it is a convertible, although it does have a soft fabric roof (available in five different colours) which can be stored away in 14 seconds even when driving at just over 30mph - all controlled via the touchscreen. With the top down, it will manage 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 196mph.

It has enough room for four passengers and for extra comfort, comes with an innovative neck warmer standard, to heat the driver and passenger’s necks at three different levels of intensity. An optional wind stopper can be added for a better experience when driving with the top open. There is also a quite handy 172 litres of boot space.

The Maserati GranCabrio will launch in late summer of this year with prices yet to formally be announced. An all-electric Folgore version is expected to follow in the future, similar to the GranTurismo Folgore.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Maserati