2010 Maserati GranTurismo Convertible
By: Javier J Lozada
What is drop-dead gorgeous, has an exhaust note as sweet as the sound of Placido Domingo at La Scala, and is one hundred percent Italian? The all-new 2010 Maserati GranTurismo Convertible. From the house of Maserati comes the latest alfresco version of the head-turning GT coupe, itself an amazing Grand Turismo graced with a stunning body by the haute-couture automotive design masters, Pininfarina.
So, on a perfect South Florida afternoon, Motoring Style was given the chance to take one of these beauties out for a spin through the tony enclave of Coral Gables. Arriving at The Collection’s Maserati showroom, I was greeted by one of their salespersons that gave me a briefing on the car before it was time to head out on the drive. Once on the road, I put the Italian convertible though its paces, pushing the elegant aluminum gas pedal daringly in open streets. Such is the power produced by its 433 HP, Ferrari sourced, that I ended up firmly pinned against the sport seats every time I had the devilish delight of stepping on it. A sumptuous and throaty exhaust note that is unmistakably Italian is music to the driver’s ears, making the upgraded BOSE sound system a hardly-used option. Steering wheel and suspension feedback are a nice mix of sport directness as well as luxurious comfort, making this latest GT a delight to drive, even on less-than smooth blacktops. Brake pedal feel is superb, making smooth, linear stops a breeze.
The steering-column mounted paddle shifters are easy to use while shifting and turning the wheel quickly. Nowadays, a six speed adaptive auto transmission is standard equipment. No longer needing to pay two grand plus for the convenience of sequential shifting! I did note that the shifts from this transmission were razor quick and velvety smooth. With multiple generations under their belt, these types of transmissions are getting better with time. During the drive, I fidgeted with the navigation system which proved to be pleasantly intuitive. HVAC controls are easy to read and manipulate, making the cabin as user friendly as it is refined. After an all too brief of a drive, we found ourselves back at the dealer, giving us a moment to detail and notice the interior appointments of this lusciously hand-crafted GT.
A buyer can select from 14 exterior colors as well as 10 shades of scrumptious Poltrona Frau Leather. Maserati definitely gets points for including an elegant, classic analog clock on the dash contrasting nicely with the modern look of the large, center mounted multi-function display. Three trim options are available as well, with piano black being this writers’ preference.
The GranTurismo Convertible delivers superb balance, a refined and sporty ride, combined with its unmistakable exhaust note, giving its lucky owner a true Italian driving experience. With a base price of $135,800,00, it is a bit pricier than say a Mercedes-Benz SL or Porsche 911 Cabriolet. But then again, this is a Maserati GranTurismo Convertible.
The Essentials:
2010 Maserati GranTurismo Convertible
Engine: V8, 4.7 liters, 433 HP
0-60 in 4.9 seconds
MSRP: $135,800.00
Available: Spring 2010.