Lake Maggiore, ITALY — Driving the Maserati GranCabrio Folgore on its picturesque home turf and delving into Maserati’s press materials, it’s clear the Italian automaker has a hidden gem. Despite pricing that sees some GranTurismo coupes and GranCabrio convertibles approaching $200,000—territory typically occupied by Bentley and Aston Martin—there’s an aspect worth highlighting: The GranCabrio Folgore is the world’s first and only luxury electric convertible. This distinction alone could attract affluent, early-adopter buyers.
Performance and Agility
The GranCabrio Folgore is not just unique; it’s a powerhouse. Like the plug-in GranTurismo coupe, this convertible outpaces any rival Bentley Continental GT or Aston Martin DB12, particularly as speeds increase. With 750 horsepower and 995 pound-feet of torque, the Folgore delivers exceptional performance. It’s also more agile and connected to the road than the 5,450-pound Bentley droptop and competes easily with Aston’s finest GTs. This includes the gasoline Trofeo version, which, thanks to its 4,316-pound curb weight and a 542-horsepower twin-turbo, 3.0-liter Nettuno V6 engine (a detuned version from the MC20 supercar), offers a dynamic driving experience.
Design and Space
Visually, the Maserati GranCabrio is arguably more attractive than the Bentley and nearly as captivating as the Aston Martin, as evidenced by public reactions to various models in stunning colors like rose gold, deep blue, burnt orange, and sizzling red. Unlike its British competitors, the Maserati offers legitimate rear-seat space for two adults, though some front seat space-sharing is required. This practical advantage, coupled with its advanced electric powertrain, sets it apart from Bentley’s and Aston’s more traditional offerings.
Interior and Technology
While the Maserati’s interior doesn’t quite match the luxurious execution of Bentley or Aston Martin, it holds its own in terms of space and technology. The Sonus Faber audio system, for instance, delivers outstanding sound quality even at highway speeds. The GranCabrio Folgore features three electric motors, providing a combined 750 horsepower and offering different driving modes that prioritize energy efficiency or performance as needed.
Performance Specs
The Folgore’s 800-volt architecture allows for rapid DC charging at up to 270 kilowatts. Maserati estimates a 450-kilometer range on the European WLTP cycle, translating to about 260 miles under the EPA’s more realistic estimate. The car’s lightweight, largely aluminum chassis, combined with its electric powertrain, results in a 0-60 mph time of approximately 2.8 seconds and a 9.1-second sprint to 124 mph, outperforming even the Porsche Taycan Turbo S coupe and the Bentley GT Speed convertible.
Driving Experience
Driving the GranCabrio Folgore along Lake Maggiore and the Swiss border, it’s clear that this Maserati is designed for both relaxed cruising and spirited driving. The steering is precise and responsive, with a balance that avoids the understeer common in many EVs. Excellent suspension tuning and a 48/52-percent weight distribution further enhance the driving experience. The Maserati’s regenerative braking system offers three settings for varying levels of deceleration, though an additional setting for one-pedal driving would be beneficial.
Price and Value
The GranCabrio Trofeo starts at $193,995, with the electric Folgore priced at $206,995. While the gasoline Trofeo’s price might seem steep, the Folgore’s performance and technological advancements justify its cost. It’s fair to question Maserati’s pricing strategy, but the Folgore stands out in its class as the only luxury electric convertible currently available, making it a unique alternative to models like the Porsche Taycan Turbo S.
In conclusion, while the Maserati GranCabrio Folgore’s high price might raise eyebrows, its unparalleled performance, advanced technology, and unique status as the sole luxury electric convertible offer a compelling proposition for those seeking a distinctive and capable grand tourer.