SimplyAbuDhabi IX

Maserati GranCabrio I f you prefer to feel the wind in your hair but still want to enjoy the unrivalled luxury and prestige of Maserati, then the latest Gran Cabrio could well be the car of your dreams. Maintaining all the qualities of the Quattroporte I'd just stepped out of, but in a lighter, nimbler and sportier package, the Gran Cabrio is the kind of car that puts a huge smile on your face. Climb inside, press one button and in just 28 seconds the silky smooth, triple layer, electric roof opens and stows itself away to let the sun stream in and the fun begin. From the moment you lay your hands onto the beautifully trimmed leather steering wheel and aim for the open road, you know you're driving something very special indeed. Skilfully designed leather clad sports seats hold you securely in place, while classic dials and gauges set into a leather and Alcantara dashboard keep you fully informed of all the car's essential functions. You should probably check the speedometer regularly too, as that Ferarri sourced, 4.7 litre, V8 engine nestling below the Maserati's long, elegantly sculpted bonnet develops 444 horsepower even in its mildest form and is ready to burst into song with the slightest pressure from your accelerator foot! It's not just the Gran Cabrio's performance that takes the breath away – the car's looks are simply stunning. Long, lean and low and with a completely redesigned nose and air intakes for 2013, the Gran Cabrio exudes speed and power even when standing still. Not that you'll want to stay still for long of course – it's a car that practically begs to be driven and driven hard. Too often the cabriolet experience can only be enjoyed in very select company, with most convertibles being strict two seaters. That's not the case with the Gran Cabrio. Maserati's designers have used all their expertise to make the car a true four seater. Your companions won’t be crushed either: an increase of 2 inches in the Gran Cabrio's length may not sound much but it has ensured that there's adequate legroom for any rear seat passengers lucky enough to travel with you. Obviously Maserati have realised that owners of their superb and hugely desirable automobiles will never be short of company! So there you have it. Two very different Maseratis, both sharing heritage, technology and the sheer magic that have made the marque legendary amongst those with a taste for the finer things in life. Whichever you choose from your Maserati dealer, you can be sure you've drawn an ace. 2 7 4 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I