When it comes to luxurious convertibles, few names hold as much allure as Maserati. Enter the Maserati Grand Cabrio, the convertible version of their iconic GranTurismo. Competing with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz SL, Lexus LC 500 Convertible, Aston Martin DB12 Volante, and Bentley Continental Convertible, this car has a lot to prove.
After spending a few days with the 2025 Maserati Grand Cabrio, I’m here to break down its strengths, quirks, and performance on the road. Let’s dive in!
The Elephant in the Room: No More V8
For fans of the outgoing model, the biggest news is the absence of the beloved V8 engine. It’s a bold move by Maserati, especially since competitors like Mercedes-AMG, Lexus, and Bentley still offer V8 options.
However, the replacement—the Nettuno V6 engine—holds its ground. This 3.0L twin-turbo engine is both powerful and characterful, bringing a new kind of thrill to the Maserati lineup. It’s worth a closer look, and we’ll see how it performs on the road shortly.
Practicality: Trunk Space
Grand tourers aren’t known for their practicality, and the Grand Cabrio is no exception. While the coupe version offers 11 cubic feet of trunk space, the convertible sacrifices some utility. With the top up, you get 6 cubic feet; with the top down, it shrinks to 5.
It’s worth noting, though, that the Maserati still edges out rivals like the Lexus LC 500 and Mercedes SL in this department. Need more storage? The rear seats can serve as extra luggage space, as they did during my time with the car.
Pricing: A Luxury Investment
Maserati’s Grand Cabrio doesn’t come cheap. The base Modena trim starts at $160,000, while the performance-oriented Trofeo begins at $192,000 for the coupe and $215,000 for the convertible. The model I tested clocked in at a hefty $225,000.
For comparison, the Lexus LC 500 Convertible starts at nearly $100,000 less, and the AMG SL55 sits between $140,000 and $150,000. But when you consider rivals like Bentley and Aston Martin, the Grand Cabrio begins to look like a bargain in the high-end luxury GT market.
Interior: Luxurious but Quirky
Step inside, and the Grand Cabrio greets you with a blend of luxury and eccentricity. At this price point, the lack of a powered trunk feels like a miss. Controls like the push-button gear selector and dual screens for media and climate can feel overly complicated.
The smaller screen manages seat adjustments and climate controls but could benefit from more intuitive design. The cup holders are small, and rear-seat access isn’t the easiest. These quirks aside, the interior is undeniably elegant and luxurious.
Performance: The Nettuno V6
At the heart of the Grand Cabrio lies Maserati’s Nettuno V6 engine. This twin-turbocharged powerhouse delivers 542 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, launching the car from 0-60 mph in just over three seconds. The top speed? Just shy of 200 mph.
While it lacks the deep growl of a V8, the V6 more than makes up for it with its unique character and visceral sound. It’s rooted in Maserati’s MC20 supercar DNA, making it a true standout in the GT segment.
Timeless Design
Maserati knows how to design a car that turns heads, and the Grand Cabrio is no exception. From the long hood to the triangle grille and dramatic lines, this convertible exudes Italian elegance.
The model I tested featured Nero Assoluto paint, 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels, and red accents exclusive to the Trofeo trim. While some might prefer flashier colors, the understated sophistication of this design remains unmatched.
Everyday Usability
Despite its high-performance nature, the Grand Cabrio manages to be a surprisingly usable GT. Standard all-wheel drive ensures year-round drivability, even in less-than-ideal conditions. Equip it with proper tires, and this convertible can confidently handle a variety of road scenarios.
On the Road: A Thrilling Drive
The Grand Cabrio truly comes alive on the road. Its air suspension and Skyhook adaptive damping strike a balance between sporty handling and long-distance comfort. While it’s heavier than a dedicated sports car, it delivers a thrilling and responsive driving experience.
This isn’t a car for the racetrack, but it’s perfect for winding roads and scenic drives, where its dynamics and emotional appeal shine brightest.
The Convertible Factor
Convertibles aren’t for everyone, but the Grand Cabrio makes a strong case for open-top motoring. The soft top operates in under 16 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph and comes in five colors.
Driving with the top down amplifies the Maserati’s sensory appeal, immersing you in the sound, wind, and thrill of the journey.
