2006 Maserati GranSport Model Update

Maserati's New Drop-Top

A convertible version of Maserati's GranSport goes on sale in March.

A new convertible version of the 2006 GranSport Coupe will replace the conventional Spyder in Maserati’s U.S. lineup starting in March.

2006 Maserati GranSport Spyder + enlarge image  |  view gallery >

Maserati unveiled the GranSport Coupe in the summer of 2005 as a sportier version of its standard Coupe, featuring 10 more horsepower, larger wheels and tires, a lowered and stiffened suspension, different exterior trim and a price hike of more than $11,000. It was inspired by Maserati's Trident race car, which competes in the Trofeo Maserati and other GT championships.

Besides the powered retractable soft top, the GranSport Spyder differs from the GranSport Coupe in that it doesn’t have a back seat. Both models come only with an electronically controlled Cambiocorsa sequential-manual-shift gearbox. This sophisticated transmission features a clutch, but not a clutch pedal, and is shifted by flicking paddles behind the steering wheel.

The Cambiocorsa sequential-manual features four shift modes (normal, sport, automatic and low-grip) for different driving styles and conditions. The sport mode changes gears 35 percent faster on average and automatically syncs engine speed with wheel-rotation speed for quicker downshifts (when done the old-fashioned way, this is called "heel and toeing"). A "hill holder" function automatically engages the brakes to keep the car from rolling on an incline as the driver lifts his or her foot off of the brake pedal to press the accelerator.

While the Cambiocorsa transmission is a versatile novelty — especially considering its fully automatic mode that shifts gears for you — it's not as smooth in operation as other sequential-manual transmissions. Plus, these complex sequential-manual transmissions are relatively new, so their resilience and reliability are unproven.

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The GranSport Coupe and Spyder share subtle differences that set them apart from the standard Coupe and now-discontinued Spyder: Wind-tunnel testing produced a larger front spoiler under the bumper as well as side-sill extensions beneath the doors and a subtle rear spoiler on the trunk lid — all to improve down-force and stability at high speeds. To this end, ride height was also chopped 10 millimeters, lowering the car's center of gravity and firming the suspension for even tighter steering and handling. A flashy chrome mesh grille and bumper inserts further distinguish GranSport models from the standard Coupe and Spyder, as do 19-inch wheels with a design like that of the Trident race car's wheels.

The GranSport wrangles more power from the lightweight 4.2-liter V8 engine of the standard Coupe for a modest increase from 390 hp to 400 hp. The GranSport's exhaust system is less restrictive and has an electronically controlled pneumatic valve system that can coax a throatier exhaust sound at the push of a center-console mounted "Sport" button, which also firms up the suspension. Unlike most cars, which suppress engine and exhaust noise as much as possible, Italian exotics like the GranSport amplify them for a more exhilarating driving experience.

Like the Maserati Coupe, the GranSport employs an independent front and rear suspension with double-wishbone technology — a design often used on race cars — albeit stiffened and lowered for sharper handling.

A Skyhook adaptive suspension-control system uses sensors to automatically adjust for varying road conditions and driving styles. An array of electronic chassis control systems, including stability and traction control, can be deactivated by drivers skilled and daring enough to deliberately induce skids in order to drift and slide through turns.

Brembo four-wheel disc antilock brakes feature titanium-colored four-piston calipers. Buyers can opt to have them painted a more conspicuous color.

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A rich, leather-clad interior coddles occupants with supportive power-adjustable sport seats and blends classic and modern styling. Like most sporty two-seaters, the GranSport isn't much of a cargo carrier, though Maserati claims its smallish trunk can hold two golf bags or a set of custom-fitted luggage. The rear seat in the GranSport coupe is tight. A GPS satellite navigation system, alarm system, cruise control and CD changer are among the options that should be included as standard equipment on a car of this caliber.

Maseratis are exotic alternatives to more mainstream high-performance coupes from Jaguar, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. Maserati only imports about 2,000 cars annually through a handful of dealers, so buyers are ensured of exclusivity. Discriminating enthusiasts in search of even more glamour and uniqueness can order a custom paint job, concoct different combinations of colored leather for the interior and order fitted luggage and a host of other indulgences.