BENEATH THE LAYERS OF TECHNOLOGY AND our obsession with performance figures, features and touchscreens, are we losing the sheer romance of driving?
A fine performance automobile need not be judged entirely based on how long it takes to go from zero to 100 km/h but rather its driving experience. Every car enthusiast wants that.
Maserati, for example, has been known for making performance-focused luxury cars with effortless style rather than moving science projects. At its heart, the brand has always celebrated the emotion of driving, and nowhere is that more evident than in the GranCabrio. It doesn’t flaunt its performance credentials but certainly conveys the classic charms of driving an Italian convertible. The open-top sibling to the GranTurismo comes with an electric Folgore version, with three motors no less. There is also the more traditional combustion-engine Trofeo version tested by us.
Underneath the sculpted bonnet lies the ‘Netunno’ V6 petrol powertrain also found on the MCPura supercar. Here, it develops 542hp and can gallop to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds. The numbers don’t convey the appeal of this car. This melodious engine can be heard even better without any roof above your head as you immerse deeply in its rich soundtrack.
Despite its near five-metre length, the GranCabrio is like a ballet dancer with sharp handling and a steering that dances to your inputs with glee. Sure, this is not a bonafide track car but then it is not supposed to be. It’s a performance convertible with dollops of Italian charm being thrown in.
Top down, you would enjoy driving this car slowly, not to mention soak up a ton of envious glances along the way. The ride quality is surprisingly supple with a hint of firmness thrown in. Cutting the roof off has not compromised the structural rigidity and it feels comfortable enough with no scuttle shake. Even if a sudden downpour happens, you would need only 16 seconds to get the roof up. Plus, with all wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic, this isn’t some hardto-drive track supercar. It's an effortless long-distance cruiser, and its ground clearance is well suited to everyday driving.
For all its dynamic prowess, the GranCabrio is a luxury convertible you can happily live with every day. And when the tarmac opens up, simply drop the roof and savour everything it has to offer.
Buyers can also personalise their cars through the Fuoriserie customisation programme, lending an individual touch that many other luxury cars simply can’t match. The interior, meanwhile, is swathed in fragrant Italian leather, complemented by 3D carbon-fibre trim and a Sonus Faber audio system that rivals a live opera. In short, the Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo is the perfect blend of performance and timeless luxury.
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