Model Lineup
Unlike the GranTurismo, which is offered in two different models, the GranCabrio is only offered in one trim level equipped with the more powerful of the two V-8s that are offered in the coupe.

All 2010 Maserati GranCabrio models feature a full complement of power accessories expected in a vehicle of this caliber. In addition, in typical Maserati fashion, customers may choose from a generous selection of available supple Poltrona Frau leathers and handcrafted interior accents. No fewer than ten different shades of leather, with thirteen different stitching colors, may be mixed to customize the interior upholstery. The exterior of the vehicle offers even more options. According to the manufacturer, there are approximately four million color and trim combinations for the GranCabrio through Maserati's custom-build tailoring service.

Maserati's choice to avoid a folding hardtop and utilize soft canvas has helped with the trunk space on the GranCabrio, the maker says. Although the trunk is smaller than the luggage compartment on the GranTurismo, most of the roof's hardware is positioned just behind the rear seats in an effort to preserve luggage capacity. Like the coupe, the GranCabrio is expected to be equipped with an 11-speaker Bose Surround Sound audio system, with Neodymium iron-boron magnets, to deliver sound accurately to all four seating positions. The system also features a 30-GB hard drive to store up to 180 hours of music.

Hardware
Maserati has chosen to fit its largest engine in the GranCabrio-the Ferrari-sourced, 4.7-liter, 8-cylinder 4-valve engine, which is optional on the GranTurismo (interestingly enough, it is shared with the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione). The powerplant is rated at 433 horsepower and mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission. The transmission is an upgraded MC-Shift gearbox with a rear transaxle for better weight distribution, combined with a limited-slip differential for better traction and acceleration. To bring the Maserati GranCabrio to a quick and controlled stop, the brakes are generously-sized, ventilated, multi-piston Brembo discs on all four corners with standard anti-lock braking (ABS). According to the manufacturer, the GranCabrio accelerates to 62 mph in just 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 175 mph (with the top up).

The convertible's chassis is comprised of a boxed steel monocoque design. It has been engineered to serve as a rigid platform for the front and rear quadrilateral independent suspension components. The shock absorbers utilize an available electronically controlled "Skyhook" active ride dampening system with aluminum gas struts to automatically monitor the road 100 times per second, and adapt the ride to the driver's style, Maserati says. In addition, the manufacturer says the Skyhook system has been engineered to incorporate sensory data from the transmission to briefly alter the suspension during shifting for smoother gear changes. The standard wheels are 19-inch aluminum alloy, wrapped in high-performance Pirelli P Zero Rosso tires.