Maserati's GranCabrio is already a tasty device , but the trident marque plans to use the upcoming Geneva motor show to unveil an even more desirable version.
The GranCabrio Sport is an essentially an uprated derivative that's claimed to offer improved vehicle dynamics, extra grunt, a more responsive and efficient engine and optimised gearshift response.
Due on sale in all of Maserati's 62 markets starting from mid-year, the GranCabrio Sport will sit alongside the existing GranTurismo S and Quattroporte Sport GT S.
Like its stablemates, the newcomer uses a more powerful and fuel-efficient version of Maserati's all-alloy 4.7-litre V8 that punches out 331kW and 510Nm.
Maserati claims its 'Friction Reduction Program' has made the GranCabrio Sport's engine more reactive to throttle inputs and it's claimed to deliver a six per cent improvement in fuel consumption.
The GranCabrio Sport's v-max is quoted at 285km/h, but the company hasn't as yet revealed the ragtop's 0-100km/h split.
Hooked up to the V8 is a ZF six-speed automatic with the super-fast MC Auto Shift software, as previously seen in the Quattroporte Sport GT S. Maserati claims the MC Auto Shift provides optimised gearshift response for sharper performance and greater enjoyment levels.
Complementing the drivetrain mods are an upgraded Skyhook active-suspension system -- with sportier tuning, according to Maserati -- and grooved and drilled dual-cast brake discs.
Visually, the GranCabrio Sport is distinguishable via its black grille and trident badge with red accents. The headlights also have a blacked-out treatment, while the front corner splitters and redesigned side skirts are both body coloured.
The GranCabrio Sport also debuts a new body colour for Maserati -- Rosso Trionfale -- inspired by the red Italian national colours used on 1950s racing Maseratis. In 1957, Juan Manuel Fangio won his fifth F1 world title at the wheel of a red Maserati 250F.
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