Maserati Droptop to preview In Geneva
Maserati will preview their latest Granturismo Convertible Sport (known as the GranCabrio Sport outside of North America) at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, taking it to a new level of performance and handling, offering more driving pleasure, by providing improved overall vehicle dynamics, more horsepower from a more responsive and efficient engine, along with optimized gearshift response.
After stunning the world with the GranTurismo Convertible at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, the GranTurismo droptop was conceived to give the GranTurismo Convertible an even sharper-edged model to sit alongside the GranTurismo S and Quattroporte Sport GT S, utilizing Maserati?s sonorous all-alloy 4.7-litre V8, but in a more potent and efficient form, coupled with a ZF six-speed automatic transmission.
The naturally aspirated engine, in its new configuration, produces 444 horsepower, whil generating 376 pound feet of torque at the peak of its steady torque curve. Maserati?s Friction Reduction Program makes the GranTurismo engine more reactive to driver input on a more precise level, while achieving a 6% reduction in fuel consumption, capable of propelling the GranTurismo Convertible Sport to an electronically limited top speed of 177 mph.
The paddle shift gearbox is equipped with the incredibly fast MC Auto Shift software that was developed for this new convertible directly from the transmission in the Quattroporte Sport GT S. The MC shift program delivers optimized gearshift response, resulting in enhanced driver engagement.
Handling also received attention, with an upgrade and revision of the Skyhook active-suspension system, now featuring sportier tuning along with the adoption of grooved and drilled dual-cast brake discs.
In terms of its visual appeal, the GranTurismo Convertible Sport benefits from a more pronounced dynamicism. This look starts up front with the GranCabrio?s distinctive nose, hosting a black grille and a red-accented Trident badge. The headlights also feature a black look, while front corner splitters and redesigned side skirts are both body colored. A new body color for Maserati becomes available ? Rosso Trionfale, inspired by the red Italian national colors used on
Racing Maseratis of the 1950s, such as the 250F, in which Juan Manuel Fangio won his fifth F1 World Title in 1957.
The Maserati GranTurismo Convertible Sport arrives on our shores beginning in August 2011.
