Driving Sports

I'm a sucker for Italian cars. It doesn't matter whether it's a diminutive Fiat Cinquecento or the most high-tech Lamborghini, I love them on sight and I love them more after I drive them.

Italian cars are a harmonious mixture of human comfort and mechanical excellence, but the real addictive quality is the way they drive. There are great roads throughout Italy, and Italians have a passion for driving that comes through in their cars. And don't forget, Italy is the nation that gave us Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Ravioli, so we know they've got art in their hearts and technology on their minds.

Now here comes Maserati with another fabulous car, and it's a ragtop - what could be better?

The Maserati GranCabrio, the first four-seater convertible in the automaker’s history, will make its world wide debut on September 15 at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The introduction of the GranCabrio completes Maserati’s product line-up with the Quattroporte sedan and GranTurismo coupe.

The GranCabrio is continuing the Maserati tradition in open-top fine automobiles, beginning with the 1950 A6G Frua Spyder, and continuing through a long list of significant and thrilling open air models. However, the Gran Cabrio will be the first four-seat convertible ever produced at the Viale Ciro Menotti Maserati factory.

The GranCabrio is powered by a 433 horsepower 4.7-liter V8 engine and will be the longest wheelbase convertible on the market. This is a serious touring car, with the punch to move and the luxury to satisfy the most high-maintenance people on the planet. And unlike the current run of retractable hard tops, the GranCabrio’s roof is strictly canvas, emphasizing the link with the Maserati tradition.

The Maserati GranCabrio will be on order this coming winter, and available the following spring. Pricing has not been announced, but let's face it - it's going to be spendy, but worth every penny.