2012 Maserati GranTurismo Convertible Sport
Maserati will unveil a new, faster version of its stunning GranTurismo Convertible at the Geneva Motor Show next week. Known as the Maserati GranTurismo Converitble Sport (GranCabrio Sport outside the U.S.), the upgraded model will have more power, better handling, more aggressive looks and a transmission that shifts quicker and more smoothly.
Under the hood is an upgraded version of Maserati's 4.7-liter V-8 engine. Power increases from 433 horsepower to 444 hp, with torque getting a boost from 361 lb-ft to 375 lb-ft. It's a modest upgrade -- after all, it's not like the GranTurismo Convertible was a slug to begin with -- but a noteworthy one. The power increases are mostly due to friction reduction measures in the engine, and a side benefit is a 6-percent increase in fuel economy, surely an area of concern for Maserati buyers. The six-speed paddle-shifted transmission is essentially the fast-shifting version used in the Quattroporte Sport GT S.
The Maserati GranTurismo Convertible Sport also gets a revised suspension, with Maserati saying its Skyhook active suspension system has been recalibrated or a sportier feel. The brakes have also been upgraded with grooved and drilled rotors.
The Sport's exterior has been subtly revised to distinguish it from the standard-issue GranTurismo Convertible. The grille gets a blackout treatment, and the Maserati trident gets red accents. The headlights also get a black background, and the front splitters and side skirts are now body colored. The whole car can be ordered in a new color: Rosso Trionfale, which Maserati says was inspired by the red Italian racing colors used in the 1950s.
Like what you see? Want one? You'll have to hold out until August of this year. No word on price, but really, does it matter?