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    Categories: New Launch

2016 Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC Review

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

One of the most stylish and athletic open top cars available on the road today, the Maserati GranTurismo Convertible continues the company’s glamorous heritage of producing performance, open top, four-seater coupes with the stable comprising the GranTurismo Convertible, GranTurismo Convertible Sport and GranTurismo Convertible MC.

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

Mere figures can neither reveal the fascination of the GranTurismo Convertible nor describe the distinct personality of each variant. To feel the Maserati passion you have to drive one.

In 1914, the Maserati brothers teamed up to build the perfect race car. In 1947, Maserati started producing road-going versions of their racing cars. The graceful and elegant lines of the luxurious GranTurismo Convertible can be traced back to the sensuous 1950 A6G Frua Spyder, a luxurious car with a race car engine which is the ancestor of the Maserati open-top bloodline.

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

Today’s GranTurismo Convertible range offers peerless, performance luxury in daily commuting, on long trips or for more committed, sporting drives. The sporty stance and classic silhouette of the 4-seater convertible tell of its 100-year heritage of famous Maserati race and road cars – a true design masterpiece by Pininfarina.

The powerful, naturally-aspirated V8 engine is hand-assembled by Ferrari in Maranello giving the GranTurismo Convertible range its characteristic eager throttle response and free-revving characteristics.

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

The graceful and elegant GranTurismo Convertible with 450 hp combines the 4.7-litre V8 engine with a smooth, hydraulically-operated, automatic 6-speed gearshift and the Skyhook electronically variable active damping system with a comfortable setup.

The GranTurismo Convertible Sport is the perfect choice for ambitious drivers by offering more power, a faster gearshift and a distinctively aggressive look. With an extra 10 horsepower, the 460 hp GranTurismo Convertible Sport combines the 4.7-litre V8 engine with a faster MC Auto Shift transmission and the Sport Skyhook suspension system. With a 285 km/h top speed and a 0-100 km/h sprint of just 5.0 seconds, the GranTurismo Convertible Sport is brimming with performance and luxury refinements both inside the cabin and underneath its award-winning body panels.

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

If ever you wanted an open-air, racetrack experience for four adults, then the GranTurismo Convertible MC is your only option. Inspired by the success of the GranTurismo MC Stradale’s masterly translation and adaptation of racing characteristics for use on the road, the GranTurismo Convertible MC completes the open-top range with a highly sporty and aggressive look, while maintaining the strengths and characteristics of a true grand tourer, ideal for long journeys. The GranTurismo Convertible MC is powered by a 4.7-litre V8 engine delivering 460 hp in combination with the MC Auto Shift transmission and the Sport Skyhook suspension system, is now able to propel the GranTurismo Convertible MC to a top speed of 289 km/h while accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

The sports exhaust with bypass valves create the exhilarating Maserati sound. The front-mid sports car layout, rear-biased weight distribution and double wishbone suspensions, the hydraulic steering box, Brembo brakes and limited slip differential create the razor-sharp handling of a true sports car. Optimized aerodynamics ensure high-speed stability and ventilation.

The GranTurismo Convertible range offers on-road luxury with its spacious interior with four comfortable individual seats in leather, Poltrona Frau® Leather and drilled Alcantara depending on the variant, perfect ergonomics and easy-to-use interfaces. Clients can express their individual style with custom-made seat upholstery, coloured brake calipers and more personalization possibilities.

Exterior

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

Pininfarina’s unmistakable lines have graced Maseratis for generations and are reflected in the timeless classic that is the GranTurismo Convertible. The Maserati GranTurismo Convertible has been designed from the ground up as a sports cabriolet.

Its sleek shape, sporty stance and unforgettable silhouette pays homage to its famous heritage and is 100 per cent pure Maserati.

Its long front, muscular rear and defined lines suggest a forceful forward movement – even at a standstill. Particular attention has been paid to precise adjustments in its shapes to perfect aerodynamics.

The GranTurismo Convertible’s historically inspired nose designed to improve both aerodynamics and the front brake cooling features a prominent oval grille as a direct link to its forebears with concave, vertical strakes like those from the Maserati A6 GCS of 1953. The traditional Trident badge in the centre

Sharply raked bi-xenon headlights with an integrated washing system and LED daytime running lights flow into voluminous front guards that give it a forceful look, emphasizing its power. The Xenon cluster within the headlight also incorporates Adaptive Light Control to track the movement of the steering wheel of up to 15 degrees.

A classical lean centre flanked by boldly moulded wings blends front and rear end for a perfectly balanced fusion of innovation and tradition.

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

Key historic styling cues like the triple air vent aperture in the front guards and the traditional triangular c-pillar referenced by the canvas roof, make the GranTurismo Convertible instantly recognizable as a Maserati also from the side.

The classic side lines blend the historically inspired front end with the modern rear end. The high-tech triangular rear light clusters feature 96 LEDs. A third stop light has been incorporated into the chrome trim under the window screen. The tail of the GranTurismo Convertible is capped by two, large oval tailpipes which underline its powerful character.

The GranTurismo Convertible MC combines high performance and sports characteristics derived from Maserati’s racing programs with the style, charm and practicality of the acclaimed four-seat convertible.

Inspired by the success of the GranTurismo MC Stradale’s masterly translation and adaptation of racing characteristics for use on the road, the GranTurismo Convertible MC completes the open-top range with a highly sporty and aggressive look, while maintaining the strengths and characteristics of a true grand tourer, ideal for long journeys.

The unmistakable athletics of the GranTurismo Convertible MC are infused in each design element in its bodywork. Seamlessly uniting form and function, it blends sportiness, dynamism, aerodynamic functionality, elegance and style.

The car, longer than the GranTurismo Convertible and GranTurismo Convertible Sport, is characterized by a pronounced front which is inspired directly by the MC Stradale. It sports an all-new MC-inspired bonnet with two air inlets, available in carbon fibre as an optional, which adds high-speed stability without increasing drag, mainly by relieving under-bonnet pressure, and incorporates two generous air outlets to maximize cooling of the powerful 4.7-litre V8 engine.

The engine cover joins a host of other Trofeo-derived aerodynamic updates that add high-speed stability and efficiency. These include a deep front splitter integrated into the front bumper and deep functional side skirts. The striking new bi-xenon headlights adopt LEDs for the daytime running light (DRL) function and enhance the latest technology with an extremely sporty look thanks to their matt black structure. The grille of the GranTurismo Convertible MC comes in a matching black finish.

Adopting a profile designed to optimize its aerodynamic capabilities, the lift coefficient (measured at 140 km/h) was lowered by 10% at the front and 25% at the rear compared to the GranTurismo Convertible Sport.

The rear is characterized by a larger spoiler incorporating the GranTurismo Convertible MC’s third brake light. The standard version comes in the same colour as the body and it is also available, within the various car customization packages, with a carbon finish.

The bumper has been completely redesigned to make the new model even sportier. The circular exhausts have been moved to the centre. The specific layout of the air ducts, built into the lower part of the bumper, ensure greater streamlining, stabilizing the air flow from the underbody.

Finally, the dynamism of the GranTurismo Convertible MC is accentuated by the flow-formed 20″ MC Design alloy rims, available in glossy Titanio or matt Grafite finish, which feature the traditional Trident crafted into the double-spokes and clearly distinguish it as the high performance model from the GranTurismo Convertible range.

Interior

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

The elegant and sumptuous hand-crafted interior blends luxury and space with performance in perfect harmony, highlighting the GranTurismo Convertible’s character without sacrificing usability. The two-door convertible seats four adults in comfort.

The interior merges seamlessly with the lines of the bodywork, generating a sophisticated cabrio-look. Clean surfaces ensure easy usability and optimal ergonomics.

The dashboard features a distinctive ‘V’ motif echoing Maserati’s design traits while subtle chrome rings around the buttons and hand-stitched Trident logos on the head rests characterize the care taken for each detail. The front seat belt mounts lie flush with the beltline of the body to gives an uninterrupted waistline profile while the stitching on the seats resembles the line of the radiator grille, representing the styling ambition of the GranTurismo Convertible range. The Easy Entry system enables front seats to move fully forward, offering convenient access to the rear of the car.

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

The ergonomic flattened three-spoke sports steering wheel with profiled grip features controls that operate many of the car’s systems. It is designed to allow the driver keeping the hands on the wheel at all times in order to increase safety and offers many options for personalisation: full leather, leather/Alcantara, leather/carbon fibre or leather/wood trim.

No gimmicks or complications to spoil the drive. The automatic dual-zone climate control adjusts the air conditioning level according to the outdoor temperature and provides a diverse range of settings for each passenger. The optional BOSE Surround Sound® audio system with 12 speakers offers sound quality comparable to the best concert halls

Maserati offers a personalisation programme that is unlike any other in the world: it allows each customer to create a unique GranTurismo Convertible with for example the Alcantara package for an even more dynamic look, Poltrona Frau® leather upholstery – the finest leather in the automotive world, leather upholstery in various colours as well as several combinable stitchings and the MC Sports Line package with carbon fibre trim for added sportiness. There is also a plethora of attractive trims to choose from.

The well-known furniture manufacturer Poltrona Frau® provides Maserati with the finest leather quality. Both Italian companies share a passion for craftsmanship, quality, style and usability. While Poltrona Frau® is the supplier for various car companies, only two companies receive the finest exclusive ‘Frau® leather’: Maserati and Ferrari. Poltrona Frau examines and selects each hide by hand, and the 20 tanning and treatment processes ensure that the exclusive ‘Frau® leather’ is completely organic and beautifully soft – but also very durable. Over time, Poltrona Frau® leather takes on a unique patina and does not tear like ordinary leather.

The sports seats of the GranTurismo Convertible Sport and MC reflect the highest standards of Italian craftsmanship and particular attention paid to ergonomics. Both the front and rear seats incorporate the headrests and are enhanced by an upper, central trim featuring a design inspired by the car’s front grille.

With an increased profile to enhance their wrap-around structure and lateral containment, the seats ensure an ideal seating position for sporty driving while guaranteeing superior comfort, even on long journeys.

The sports seats in the GranCabrio Sport come in Poltrona Frau Leather; in the MC in Poltrona Frau Leather and drilled Alcantara upholstery.

The steering wheel features a new design flattened at the top and bottom for greater handling. To complete the high-performance look of the interior, it incorporates the Trofeo-design steering wheel paddles as standard with increased dimensions.

Soft Top

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

The soft top of the GranCabrio range is an insulated triple layer cloth design with combined steel and aluminium frame providing quiet and draught-free motoring. It allows the best of both worlds with the choice of superb insulation or an open top at the flick of a button.

One touch of the switch commands the roof to raise or lower in just 24 seconds at speeds below 30 km/h.

A thermal glass rear screen makes the car pleasurable to drive in winter as well as prevents scratches on the rear window.

In the unexpected event of a possible roll-over, a telescopic roll bar system that’s stored out of sight behind the rear seats deploys in less than 190 milliseconds to protect the passengers.

There’s a choice of six external and three internal colours for the roof. A Summer Opening function also allows the roof to open while turning the key in the door lock. This lets the top-down fun to start even before you climb aboard.

Engine

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

The naturally aspirated, Ferrari-built, V8 engine used in the GranCabrio range comes straight from the race track offering eager throttle response and free-revving characteristics all delivered with the spine-tingling Maserati sound through its sports exhaust system.

The V8 engine’s reaction is extremely sensitive to movements of the right foot – the throttle response is simply in a league of its own. This and the smooth power delivery are typical characteristics of naturally-aspirated motors.

Its sportive lightweight construction is evident in the engine crankcase and cylinder heads in hardened and temperate aluminium alloy and the crankshaft in hardened and tempered steel – ideal for ultra-high thermal and mechanical strain. Racing is in the Maserati DNA – Formula 1 derived special coatings of highly stressed components reduce friction. Thus power rises while consumption drops. Thanks to the coating, the reliability increases as well: Nikasil-coated steel cylinder liners are extremely tough and wear-resistant; Diamond-Like Coating (DLC) and super-finished camshaft labels were originally developed for motorsport.

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are 14.5 l/100 km and 337 g/km (combined) across the GranCabrio range.

The sports exhaust with bypass valves create the exhilarating Maserati sound.

The GranTurismo Convertible MC is powered by the 4.7-litre V8 engine delivering 460 hp together with 520 Nm of torque at 4,750 rpm. In combination with the MC Auto Shift transmission, it is able to propel the GranTurismo Convertible MC to a top speed of 289 km/h while accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

The MC features smaller, lighter rear silencers; the deep throaty purr of the engine sounds every bit like that of a race car.

Gearbox

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

Attached directly to the rear of the engine, the ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox includes a wide array of features that have been proven in other Maserati models, including five available operating modes.

It can be operated in Auto-Normal, Auto-Sport, Manual-Normal, Manual-Sport and I.C.E. modes. In the Manual modes, the driver controls the gearshifts directly with the steering column-mounted gearshift paddles and the car operates as a true manual, holding each gear until it receives input from the driver. In Manual-Normal mode, the driver can shift until the redline while in Manual-Sport mode, the transmission will hold the gear until the driver changes, even if that means the engine hits its rev limiter.

In Sport mode, the GranTurismo Convertible MC also contains the super-fast MC Auto Shift mode which is capable of a fast gearshift in just 100 ms. This mode includes automatic blipping on the downshift to minimize load changes and to thrill the aficionados’ ear.

The 6-speed box also features Launch Control whereby the driver can hold the brake pedal down, press the accelerator until the engine reaches optimum launch rpm of between 2,300-2,500 rpm before releasing the brake pedal. This manoeuvre is only recommended for use on a race track or in closed conditions of complete safety. Using this fast-starting system, the GranCabrio Sport will hit 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds; the GranTurismo Convertible MC in 4.9 seconds.

The MC Auto Shift gives the driver even-greater engagement by holding gears in the Manual Sport mode, even when the engine reaches its rev limiter, and introducing a digital in-dash display to indicate the ideal gear-shift timing.

Handling and braking

Maserati GranTurismo Convertible MC © Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.

The GranCabrio range has been engineered to give its occupants greater ride comfort than ever before, while also providing even more responsiveness in performance driving. Delivering a superb ride as well as extreme sporting grip and handling, it gives the GranCabrio an all-round ability found in few sports convertibles.

Derived from the GranTurismo’s high-strength steel monocoque architecture, the GranCabrio range models feature aluminium structural reinforcements beneath the floor for extra rigidity at the cost of only 100 kg compared to the GranTurismo Sport.

Attached to the front of this architecture are aluminium wishbones with forged aluminium hub carriers and struts, aluminium gas dampers and springs, while at the rear adds a radius bar for each wheel to control toe-in.

Electro-mechanical steering simply doesn’t offer the same sort of connection or feel that a driver demands, which is why the hydraulic steering used in the GranCabrio inspires with its instant feedback and direct connection between the road and the fingertips.

Strengthened anti-roll bars suppress unwanted body-movement. The mechanical limited slip rear differential provides perfect traction when accelerating out of a corner.

The brakes, with grooved, ventilated and drilled discs on all four wheels, have targeted a sporty, responsive and consistent feeling for the driver.

Safe and forceful braking is guaranteed by Maserati’s patented Dual Cast system, which includes brake discs with aluminium bell and steel braking surfaces. The system guarantees the best pedal response and braking efficiency, which translates to an excellent stopping distance of 100 to 0 km/h within just 35 meters.

The one-piece aluminium brake calipers, produced by Brembo and available in a range of colours, feature six-piston at the front and four-piston at the rear. This configuration ensures greater uniformity in braking, a constant clamping force and the sensation of a stable and reliable pedal, reducing brake wear at the same time.

The GranTurismo Convertible MC is a street car which performs like a race car. Performance, safety and comfort were the guidelines that Maserati engineers followed when designing the chassis for the new GranTurismo Convertible MC. In light of the experience gained with the GranTurismo MC Stradale, it is fitted with single-rate dampers, which guarantee greater rigidity in order to ensure optimum handling in all driving conditions, without compromising on passenger comfort. The Sport Skyhook suspension is available optionally on the GranTurismo Convertible MC.

The monocoque chassis is made blends different materials to ensure maximum weight reduction and maximum torsional rigidity. The use of high-strength steels for the structural part and the use of aluminium and composite materials for the moving parts, ensure maximum performance in complete conformity with the spirit in which the GranTurismo Convertible MC was conceived.

Price

Recommended retail price (MSRP) starts from $161,070

Steve Allen: