The new Maserati Gran Cabrio Convertible Coupe is a smoothly designed sports car that successfully reflects the Italian luxury car manufacturer's reputation of excellence. The car features a 4.6-liter V8 engine that cranks out 450 horsepower and 372 pound-feet of torque. This generous engine is paired with a ZF six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which actually improves gearshift times by as much as 50 percent. It is rear-wheel drive and tops out a speed of 177 miles per hour. The fact that it weighs only 4,145 pounds should tell you just how quickly this machine can move off the line.
The 2012 Gran Cabrio features low risk deployment airbags which adjust the power and speed at which they deploy based on the severity of the impact, which is something consumers have been requesting in all models for many years. The four-disc ventilated brakes are also unique in the way they improve braking consistency, regardless of the mode the transmission is in and terrain, and also help reduce stopping distance. There are even roll bars that are kept hidden, but can actually activate in as little as 190 milliseconds. Therefore, they will activate before you even realize that an accident is occurring, which is just one of the many thoughtful features that Maserati added to this stellar vehicle.
When the vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, it definitely turned some heads. There are few differences when compared to last year's model, primarily the blacked out trim on the front grille, body color handles opposed to the chrome handles that were used on the 2011 model and redesigned body specifications for improved aerodynamics. This is where those stunning side skirts come into play; they aren't just there to look good! They add to the streamlined design, improve speed and help reduce gas consumption. The Gran Cabrio Coupe design was inspired by the GranTurismo line but its specifications and performance were the work of the company's racing department which adds to the feel of driving this sports car. Maserati states this is one of their most innovative cars to date and is nothing like any other car in their line, and judging by the attention it gathered at the Paris Motor Show it should be successful.
When one buys a Maserati, they essentially are buying a name. However, Maserati makes it a point to make sure that their vehicles scream of luxury so consumers know very well where their money went, and they couldn't be happier about it!