Used 2012 Maserati GranCabrio Sports Review & Ratings

Maserati introduced the 2012 Gran Cabrio Sports model earlier this year at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The car exceeded expectations and caught the attention of the crowd as its sleek new design didn't fail to turn heads. An iconic Maserati grille echoes of elegance and complements the aerodynamic styling exquisitely. In the back, you can't help but be swept away by the oval tailpipes, which can be personalized with carbon fiber, if you choose.

The Gran Cabrio features a 4.7-liter V8 engine that produces a powerful 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. The Sport model also surpassed the standard model in torque as it produces about 20 Nm more. When the "Sport" button is pushed, the driver is granted sharper handling and much more grip for a remove responsive and aggressive driving experience. The transmission actually boasts five very different modes, including Auto Normal, Manual Normal, Auto Sport, Manual Sport and Ice. Regardless which mode you are driving in, the ride will be silky smooth due to the Skyhook suspension which features aluminum dampers that adjust the ride by reading acceleration sensors on each wheel.

The car features a brilliant array of interior colors made of Maserati's Poltrona Frau Leather. You also can't help but be quite impressed by the surprisingly large interior space. The exterior features a noticeable black grille with the signature Maserati trident on the front with red prongs. The body has a slim design and Maserati states one of the Gran Cabrio Sports most notable aspects of the cars design is the car's side skirts that give it an aerodynamic design. Of course, these side skirts aren't just there for aesthetic purposes; they actually work to reduce fuel-economy by helping the vehicle glide like a bird in the air.

As much as this vehicle is built around a sporty theme, it is equally as safe. Sure, it has the common safety features that every other vehicle has, but it wouldn't be a Maserati if it didn't boast some innovative features as well. The four-disc ventilated brakes improve consistency and reduce stopping distance while the low-risk deployment airbags adapt the intensity of the crash. This means that you are bombarded with a harsh airbag with a small fender bender, but you are still provided with protection. The roll bars are hidden, but can't activate in 190 milliseconds when the vehicle determines that they are needed. It's the little extras like these that make a Maserati worth its price tag.