Saturday, September 19, 2009

Maserati Debuts New GranCabrio


The GranCabrio, the first four-seater convertible in the history of Maserati, made its international debut at the Frankfurt International Auto Show. The GranCabrio - the third prong of the Trident - completes Maserati's product line-up that now consists of three different families of models: Quattroporte, GranTurismo and GranCabrio - sedan, coupe and convertible.

The open-top GranCabrio is pure Maserati. It is a Maserati in the truest sense, with an unmistakable Pininfarina design, spacious interior, handcrafted details, driving pleasure and high performances. The Maserati GranCabrio touches all five senses in an open-air experience that retains all the typical comfort and performance brio. Like all Maserati's open-top models, the GranCabrio is a special car intended for true connoisseurs.

The Maserati GranCabrio is powered by a 4.7 liter V8 engine paired with the fluid 6-speed automatic transmission. In Sport mode, the V8 gives the driver and passengers the full power of its 433 horses.

The body of the Maserati GranCabrio has been thoroughly overhauled. Despite the lack of an overhead frame and a wheelbase at the top of its class, it guarantees the best possible performance in terms of structural rigidity. This enhances the smooth handling, safety and comfort of the car, and fully exploits the powerful, efficient mechanics.

The newly-designed bearing monocoque has been made using materials and technologies designed especially to optimize weight: the bonnet and cross beams are made from aluminum, while the boot is made from SMC (Sheet Molding Compound). The excellent weight distribution also facilitates excellent on-the-road dynamics and improved safety, in combination with the vehicle's control systems. These include, for the first ever Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), which optimizes brake performance both in frequent use and in emergency situations.

Passenger comfort onboard the Maserati GranCabrio also comes from the perfect integration between the vehicle's top and its main systems, guaranteeing maximum efficiency and drivability in all conditions. The automatic dual-zone climate control function optimizes the conditions inside the car, adjusting the internal temperature and the intensity of ventilation depending on the outside temperature, heat of the sun, and air humidity.

By capitalizing on the close collaboration between Maserati engineers and BOSE technicians on the GranTurismo, the GranCabrio has been equipped with a BOSE audio system that adds another dimension to open-air music.

The Maserati GranCabrio is fitted with Skyhook suspension as standard. The braking system uses high performance dual-cast technology, developed in collaboration with Brembo and already successfully employed on the GranTurismo and Quattroporte.

The GranCabrio's roof is strictly canvas-made, emphasizing the link with the Maserati tradition. Aerodynamic, aero-acoustic efficiency and the desire to make the GranCabrio a car suitable for all year driving are the principles which led the Maserati technicians to develop a three-layer canvas hood. Not only does it offer ample opportunities for customization, but it also adds considerable benefits in terms of on-the-road dynamics, as the car's centre of gravity is lower. In 28 seconds, passengers can enjoy the thrill of the open-air experience, activating the open/close mechanism even when the car is moving.

For more information, visit the Maserati GranCabrio's dedicated minisite.

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