Maserati is set to unveil the third model (third prong, if you will) in their line-up at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month. The GranCabrio, as you might expect from the name is a convertible version of their excellent GranTurismo.
The Maserati GranCabrio, just like the GranTurismo S, will be powered by their smooth 4.7-liter V8 producing 433 horsepower. Maserati is sticking with a canvas top, which while generally not as attractive as retractable hardtops, is lighter, cheaper, and keeps with tradition more so than the rigid alternative. You won’t be driving this around with the top up anyway.
I had the opportunity to drive the Maserati GranTurismo last year during World Class Driving, and I was very impressed with how pleasant the car is to drive. A very high quality interior and smooth power delivery made the GT an excellent cruiser, so a convertible version as the next logical step makes sense.
You’ll start seeing ads for the 2011 GranCabrio this winter, and expect to see them in showrooms next Spring as a 2011 model. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but expect it to be somewhere around $130,000.
I’ve never been a fan of Maserati’s styling – I think the Quattroporte is butt-ugly, but the GranTurismo and now the GranCabrio I think are gorgeous. I hope Pininfarina continues along these sexy and aggressive designs, because Maseratis are excellent cars. I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to drive a GranCabrio next year.
